Black Pepper Chicken
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this flavorful Black Pepper Chicken recipe! Juicy chicken thighs are stir-fried with a savory blend of spices and vibrant vegetables, delivering a delightful kick of heat and aromatic goodness in every bite. Perfect for serving over rice or noodles, this dish is a fantastic way to make your meals exciting and satisfying.
This Black Pepper Chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of spices creates a mouthwatering dish that your family will love.
Why You'll Love It
- Quick and easy weeknight meal
- Bold and flavorful spices
- Versatile for serving over rice or noodles
A Symphony of Flavors
Black Pepper Chicken is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors. The boldness of black pepper combined with the savory umami of soy sauce creates a rich, deep taste that captivates your palate. Each bite marries tender chicken thighs with colorful vegetables that not only enhance the dish's visual appeal but also contribute layers of flavor. Slicing the bell pepper and onions adds a sweet crunch that complements the heat of the black pepper, making every mouthful a delightful experience.
This dish's versatility is one of its biggest appeals. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer black pepper flakes, catering to individual taste preferences or family members' sensitivities. Whether you're serving it to spice lovers or those who prefer milder dishes, Black Pepper Chicken brings everyone to the table.
Perfect Weeknight Solution
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to create a delicious home-cooked meal can be challenging. Black Pepper Chicken is your answer to those hectic weeknights. With simple ingredients and quick preparation times—about 30 minutes from start to finish—you'll have a nourishing dinner ready without the stress of long cooking times. Just a few fresh ingredients and you’re set for a fantastic meal you and your family will love.
Moreover, the one-pan method means easier cleanup, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones instead of scrubbing pots and pans. With minimal fuss, you can focus more on what matters—enjoying a wonderful meal together.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete dining experience, serve Black Pepper Chicken over steaming hot rice or fluffy noodles. The starch acts as a canvas, soaking up the savory sauce and enhancing the overall enjoyment of the dish. You can also sprinkle some chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top for an added pop of color and flavor.
If you're looking to increase the nutritional value, pair this dish with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or any of your favorite green vegetables. The bright colors and fresh flavors not only elevate the meal but also contribute essential vitamins and minerals, making Black Pepper Chicken a wholesome choice for your dinner table.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make Black Pepper Chicken:
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Make sure to prepare your ingredients before you begin cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make delicious Black Pepper Chicken:
Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and soy sauce. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In a wok or large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, stir-frying until softened.
Cook the Chicken
Add marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Add minced garlic and cornstarch, stirring well.
Serve
Serve the Black Pepper Chicken over rice or noodles, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Enjoy your flavorful dish with a garnish of fresh herbs if desired!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftover Black Pepper Chicken, you're in luck! This dish stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the Black Pepper Chicken. Place it in suitable freezer-safe containers and keep it for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as described above. This ensures that the flavors remain vibrant and delicious, ready to delight your taste buds once more.
Ingredient Substitutions
One of the joys of cooking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your tastes or dietary needs. If you’re in a pinch for ingredients, consider substituting chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts. They will still taste great, though they might be slightly less juicy. You can also swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
For extra flair, feel free to experiment with the vegetables. Carrots, snap peas, or even zucchini can brighten up the dish while providing their unique flavor and texture. These adjustments make Black Pepper Chicken not only a versatile recipe but one that invites creativity in the kitchen, so you can enjoy it time and again.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs provide more flavor.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for more variety.
Black Pepper Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this flavorful Black Pepper Chicken recipe! Juicy chicken thighs are stir-fried with a savory blend of spices and vibrant vegetables, delivering a delightful kick of heat and aromatic goodness in every bite. Perfect for serving over rice or noodles, this dish is a fantastic way to make your meals exciting and satisfying.
Created by: Josie Lambert
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
How-To Steps
Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and soy sauce. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
In a wok or large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, stir-frying until softened.
Add marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Add minced garlic and cornstarch, stirring well.
Serve the Black Pepper Chicken over rice or noodles, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g