Black Pepper Chicken Recipe: A Simple and Flavorful Chinese Dish

302 You’re looking for a Chinese dish that’s both simple and flavorful, and black pepper chicken fits the bill. This recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a savory sauce, all achieved with just a few key ingredients like oyster sauce, soy sauce, and of course, coarsely ground black pepper. To get started, marinate your chicken, then sear it in hot oil before adding aromatics like onion, bell pepper, and celery. Whisk together a sauce with chicken stock, oyster sauce, and soy sauce, then stir-fry everything until well coated. Your taste buds are in for a treat – and there’s more to explore in this recipe to take it to the next level.  

Ingredients

Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken To make authentic black pepper chicken, you need these essential ingredients:

• Water
• Cornstarch
• Neutral oil
• Oyster sauce
• Coarsely ground black pepper (adds a floral aroma and heat)

Understanding how to balance flavors is key. You’ll need these ingredients for the sauce:

• Low-sodium chicken stock
• Oyster sauce
• Light soy sauce
• Sugar
• Dark soy sauce
• Sesame oil

These ingredients help create a rich, savory flavor profile. You’ll also need:

• Onion
• Bell pepper
• Celery (for added crunch and freshness)

 

Instructions

Make a Delicious Black Pepper Chicken Dish To make a mouthwatering black pepper chicken dish, start by marinating the chicken. Mix water, cornstarch, oil, oyster sauce, and coarsely ground black pepper. This step helps the chicken absorb flavors and become tender. Next, prepare the stir-fry sauce. Whisk together:

• Low-sodium chicken stock
• Oyster sauce
• Light soy sauce
• Sugar
• Dark soy sauce
• Sesame oil

This sauce gives the dish a rich and savory flavor profile. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Sear the marinated chicken until it’s browned and cooked through. Use a cooking technique called ‘velveting’ to lock in the juices. Then:

• Add sliced onions, bell peppers, and celery
• Stir-fry until they’re tender-crisp
• Add the prepared sauce
• Stir-fry everything together, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are well coated

Tips and Variations

Elevate Your Black Pepper Chicken Game You can take your black pepper chicken to the next level by trying out different techniques and variations. Mastering Cooking Techniques

• Velveting: Marinate chicken in a mixture of cornstarch and egg whites to create a tender and juicy texture.
• Pan-searing: Get a crispy exterior by searing the chicken in a pan.
• Wok-frying: Quickly stir-fry vegetables and chicken in a wok over high heat.

Enhance the Flavor

• Add aromatics like garlic, ginger, or onions to the stir-fry sauce for extra flavor.
• Experiment with different types of peppers, such as Szechuan or Korean chili flakes, for unique heat and flavor profiles.
• Add other protein sources like shrimp or tofu to create a heartier dish.

 

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Information of Black Pepper Chicken Black pepper chicken is a relatively balanced dish when prepared thoughtfully, thanks to the combination of protein-rich chicken, savory sauces, and crunchy vegetables. This flavorful Chinese dish also offers health benefits from black pepper, which aids digestion, reduces inflammation, and boosts antioxidants. Key Nutritional Highlights:

• High in Protein: Black pepper chicken is an excellent source of protein, with approximately 35 grams per serving.
• Sodium Content: Be mindful of the sodium levels in the sauces and seasonings, aiming for a balanced intake.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The dish is rich in vitamins B6 and B12, as well as minerals like selenium and phosphorus.
• Moderate Calorie Count: With approximately 350 calories per serving, black pepper chicken is a relatively moderate option for those watching their calorie intake.

Tips for Preparing Black Pepper Chicken: When preparing black pepper chicken, remember to:

• Control your portion size
• Use healthier sauces and oils to minimize calorie and sodium intake