A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights, this Black Pepper Chicken recipe is your answer. With tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce infused with the heat of black pepper, this dish is a surefire way to spice up your dinner routine.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves quick stir-fries but still craves the depth and richness of restaurant-quality flavors. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you’ll appreciate the simplicity of this dish and its versatility for customization. Let’s dive in and learn how to create this vibrant meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a balanced sauce.
Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Restaurant-Style: Enjoy the bold and rich flavors of takeout in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

1 lb (454 g) chicken breasts or thighs, sliced against the grain into 1/4″ (5-mm) thick pieces

For the Marinade:

1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or regular soy sauce)
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Sauce:

1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons light soy sauce (or regular soy sauce)
2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon salt

For the Stir-Fry:

2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
1 tablespoon minced ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 white onion, chopped
2 bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors work best)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Cutting board
Sharp knife
Mixing bowls (small and medium-sized)
Large skillet or wok
Spatula
Measuring spoons and cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken slices with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Mix gently by hand until the chicken is coated evenly. Allow it to marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, black pepper, and salt until smooth. Set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken, spreading it into a single layer. Sear for about 30 seconds until lightly browned on one side, then flip. Cook for an additional 15-20 seconds, stirring occasionally, until both sides are browned but the chicken is still slightly pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Toss in the minced ginger and garlic, stirring quickly until fragrant. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking for about 20 seconds until they start to soften.

5. Combine and Finish

Stir the sauce mixture again to ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved, then pour it into the skillet. Stir immediately and cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until well-coated with the sauce. Turn off the heat and transfer the dish to a serving plate to prevent overcooking.

6. Serve

Serve hot as a main dish, paired with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.

Tips and Tricks

Ingredient Swaps: Use tofu or shrimp as a substitute for chicken. If you’re avoiding soy, coconut aminos make a great alternative to soy sauce.
Vegetable Variations: Add broccoli, snow peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrients.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately. The sauce can also be mixed in advance and refrigerated. Assemble and cook everything just before serving for the freshest taste.

What pairs well with Black Pepper Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or stir-fried noodles. For drinks, try a light white wine, iced tea, or sparkling water with a hint of lime.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as the vegetables may lose their texture and the sauce may separate when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

A Flavorful Call to Action

We hope this Black Pepper Chicken recipe inspires you to create a delicious, restaurant-style meal at home. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes, cooking tips, and kitchen inspiration. Let’s make every meal an adventure! 🍲

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