Name: black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (half of the total); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 1/2 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (remaining half); 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish); Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

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If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors and irresistibly tender meat, then this black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken is exactly what you need. The melange of freshly ground black pepper and savory sauces coats each bite with a peppery kick, while the chicken stays tender and juicy, making every forkful a delightful experience. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of textures and tastes that come together effortlessly in your kitchen.

black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, readily available ingredients is key to creating this flavorful dish. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s enhancing the aroma, providing the right texture, or adding bursts of color that make the plate come alive.

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes incredibly juicy and tender after marination and cooking.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds deep, salty umami that infuses the chicken throughout.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings a subtle sweetness and richness, balancing the pepper’s intensity.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps create a silky coating on the chicken, locking in moisture.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Perfect for sautéing without overpowering other flavors.
1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (Divided use): The bold spice that punches up the dish and defines its character.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a savory, aromatic foundation to the stir-fry.
1 teaspoon ginger, minced: Adds a bright zing that cuts through richness.
1 bell pepper, sliced: Provides crisp texture and a pop of vibrant color.
1 onion, sliced: Delivers natural sweetness as it cooks down slightly.
3 green onions, chopped (for garnish): Fresh and slightly sharp, these finish the dish with a lovely crunch.
Cooked rice or noodles (for serving): The perfect base to soak up all those incredible flavors.

How to Make black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and quickly. Toss them in a bowl with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and half the freshly ground black pepper. This marinade not only seasons the chicken deeply but also tenderizes it, ensuring that juicy tender chicken texture we’re aiming for. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat your vegetable oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, letting them sizzle for about 30 seconds. This step releases their fragrant oils, setting a wonderful aromatic foundation for the dish that will make your kitchen smell irresistible.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Next, add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, spreading them out so they sit snug yet not overcrowded. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, occasionally stirring, allowing the chicken to brown lightly and cook through while staying moist. This is where the magic of achieving that black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken occurs—perfectly cooked, bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

When the chicken is nearly tender, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Sauté everything together for around 3 to 5 minutes until the vegetables become tender-crisp. This combination adds a fresh crunch and sweetness that complement the peppery chicken beautifully, creating a delightful contrast of textures.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Sprinkle the remaining black pepper over the entire dish and give it a good stir to combine all those wonderful flavors and aromas. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Finish off by garnishing with chopped green onions before serving hot over a bed of cooked rice or noodles—allowing you to dive into that irresistible black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken experience.

How to Serve black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken

Garnishes

Garnishing with vibrant green onions adds a mild sharpness and fresh crunch that complements the dish’s peppery tones. You can also sprinkle a few toasted sesame seeds or add a wedge of lime for a zesty twist that livens up each bite.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple steamed rice or your favorite noodles to soak up the savory sauce. For added balance, consider serving light steamed vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad to refresh the palate against the strong black pepper flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the chicken inside crisp lettuce cups for a handheld option that adds fresh texture. Alternatively, plating it atop a bed of fragrant jasmine rice, garnished with fresh herbs, turns this everyday recipe into a restaurant-worthy delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep this dish longer, freezing is a great choice. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the meat tender and the black pepper sauce vibrant. Avoid microwaving directly as it can sometimes dry out the chicken; a stovetop reheat preserves that juicy tender chicken quality we love.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and remain juicy, which pairs beautifully with the black pepper flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through.

How spicy is black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken?

The black pepper provides a warm, spicy kick that is bold but not overpowering. If you prefer milder flavors, you can reduce the amount of black pepper or use a coarser grind for less intensity.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping soy sauce and oyster sauce for their gluten-free versions, you can easily make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets while keeping all that delicious flavor intact.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, a mix of soy sauce and a bit of hoisin sauce or mushroom sauce can work well as a substitute, providing a similar depth and slight sweetness.

Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! Because the chicken stays juicy and flavorful even after refrigeration, this dish is a perfect candidate for meal prepping. Just be sure to store the sauce and rice or noodles together so everything tastes fresh when reheated.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got this fantastic recipe for black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken in your culinary toolkit, you’re all set to impress your taste buds and your loved ones. It’s quick, straightforward, and delivers that perfect combination of peppery heat and tender chicken every time. Give this one a try and watch it become a new favorite in your dinner rotation!

black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 27 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Black Pepper Chicken recipe features juicy, tender chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of soy and oyster sauces, then stir-fried with aromatic garlic, ginger, and fresh vegetables. Finished with a bold kick of freshly ground black pepper, it’s a perfect quick and tasty meal served over rice or noodles.

Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
Marinate the chicken: Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and half of the black pepper to the chicken. Mix well to coat every piece evenly. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Heat the pan: Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
Cook the chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, spreading them out to avoid overcrowding. Stir occasionally and cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
Add vegetables: When the chicken is almost done, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Stir-fry for an additional 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
Season with black pepper: Sprinkle the remaining black pepper over the dish and stir well to combine all the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve the black pepper chicken hot over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.

Notes

Marinating the chicken helps tenderize it and infuses it with flavor, so don’t skip this step.
Use freshly ground black pepper for the best aroma and taste impact.
You can substitute bell pepper with other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for variation.
Serve immediately for the best texture; leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated but may lose some crispness.
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or egg noodles.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir-fry
Cuisine: Asian