Black Pepper Chicken

So, here we are again, diving into the wondrous world of food that warms the soul and makes family time a sizzle more delicious. Today, we’re talking about Black Pepper Chicken—a dish with a zing you won’t see coming! Picture juicy chunks of chicken drenched in a savory, peppery sauce that sticks to your fingers. It’s easy enough for a Wednesday night dinner but fancy enough to pass off as your new “signature dish” when the in-laws come over.

My husband? Obsessed. The guy could probably eat his weight in this chicken if left unattended. His absolute delight whenever he smells that peppery goodness wafting through the house just makes it worth every single chop, stir, and splash of soy sauce. One time, our little toddler, who normally rejects anything remotely resembling “flavor,” polished off a whole plate. As you can imagine, it quickly became our Friday night special.

How to Make It

Get cozy with your kitchen, maybe put on a playlist that makes you want to cook. You’ll want boneless chicken thighs for tenderness. We’re talking diced onions, garlic, soy sauce, and of course, abundant black pepper for that essential fiery kick. And, hey, don’t skimp on the sesame oil—real story: I forgot it once, and it just wasn’t the same.

✔Ingredient Notes

– Chicken Thighs: Use boneless—for the love of all that’s right, don’t go for the breast. Too dry.
– Black Pepper: Freshly ground is what you want here; gives you that BAM factor.
– Soy Sauce: Low sodium to control the saltiness. We’re not trying to dehydrate anyone here.
– Sesame Oil: Yes, it’s optional, but don’t skip it. Adds toastiness that’s just divine.
– Garlic: Measure this with your heart. Too much garlic is never a thing.

✔Recipe Steps

1. Chop chicken into bite-sized chunks.
2. Heat sesame oil in a pan—a large one! We’re going for non-stick if you have it.
3. Throw in diced onions and minced garlic; stir until your kitchen smells heavenly.
4. Add chicken, cooking until it’s lightly browned.
5. Stir in soy sauce, cornstarch slurry, and a pile of black pepper.
6. Simmer until the sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through.

What to Serve It With

– Steamed rice, always a classic.
– Stir-fried veggies if you’re feeling virtuous.
– A cold beer, why not? You deserve it.

✔Tips & Mistakes

✔Storage Tips

Leftovers? Pop them in an airtight container and slide them into the fridge. Reheat gently in a pan—if you blast it in the microwave, it can get a bit rubbery. But also, if you eat it cold straight from the fridge at 2 AM, no judgment here. It’s strangely satisfying.

✔Variations and Substitutions

Got no chicken thighs? Breasts will work in a pinch, but add a dash of broth to keep them juicy. No sesame oil? Olive oil can sub in, though it won’t give the same flavor boost. For a veggie version, go wild with tofu or even tempeh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Black Pepper Chicken

Juicy chicken pieces cooked in a fragrant black pepper sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 lb chicken thighs boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ▢ 1 tbsp black peppercorns freshly cracked
• ▢ 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• ▢ 1 tbsp soy sauce low sodium
• ▢ 0.5 tsp salt
• ▢ 1 clove garlic minced
• ▢ 0.25 cup chicken broth

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
• Add chicken pieces, season with salt, and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
• Sprinkle cracked black pepper over chicken and stir to combine.
• Pour in chicken broth and soy sauce, bring to a simmer, and cook until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
• Serve hot with steamed rice or vegetables.

Notes

This black pepper chicken can be customized with additional vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added texture and flavor.