Spicy Black Pepper Chicken is a bold and zesty dish that brings a kick of heat and rich aroma to your plate. Featuring tender chicken pieces generously coated in a vibrant black pepper sauce, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of spice and savory flavors. Quick to make and irresistibly delicious, it’s an ideal choice for those craving a flavorful meal with a little extra punch!
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Black Pepper Chicken
This Spicy Black Pepper Chicken is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a quick solution for those hectic evenings. The combination of tender chicken and a zesty black pepper sauce creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters in your family. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes!
Ingredients for Spicy Black Pepper Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Spicy Black Pepper Chicken a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
Vegetable oil: This is essential for frying the chicken and gives it a nice, crispy texture.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: I prefer thighs for their tenderness and flavor, but chicken breasts work too if you want a leaner option.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Cornstarch: This helps to create a lovely, glossy sauce that clings to the chicken.
Soy sauce: Adds a savory depth to the dish, making it truly irresistible.
Oyster sauce: This brings a rich umami flavor that complements the black pepper beautifully.
Rice vinegar: A splash of acidity balances the flavors and brightens the dish.
Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is a must for that signature spicy kick!
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant aroma and enhances the overall taste.
Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a warm, zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Bell pepper: Sliced bell pepper adds color and a slight sweetness to the dish.
Green onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh crunch and a pop of color when sprinkled on top.
For those who like it spicy, consider adding sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu can be a great substitute for chicken. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
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How to Make Spicy Black Pepper Chicken
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Spicy Black Pepper Chicken! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal in no time.
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough to sizzle when the chicken hits the pan. This step is crucial for achieving that lovely golden-brown color!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken thighs to the skillet. Sprinkle them with a teaspoon of salt. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This keeps it juicy and tender!
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. This sauce is the heart of your Spicy Black Pepper Chicken, so make sure it’s mixed well!
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Ginger
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
Step 5: Add Bell Pepper
Next, add the sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly tender. The bell pepper adds a lovely crunch and a pop of color to your dish.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. This is where the magic happens, as the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken!
Step 7: Add Green Onions
Finally, toss in the chopped green onions and stir to combine. Cook for another minute, then remove the skillet from heat. The green onions add a fresh crunch that brightens the dish.
Step 8: Serve
Serve your Spicy Black Pepper Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy the delightful flavors and watch your family devour every bite!
Tips for Success
Prep all your ingredients before starting to cook. It makes the process smoother!
Don’t skip the cornstarch; it’s key for a glossy sauce that clings to the chicken.
Adjust the black pepper to your taste. More for spice, less for a milder flavor.
Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Feel free to add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition and color!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any large frying pan will do.
Cutting board: Essential for chopping your ingredients safely.
Knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes prep quick and easy.
Measuring spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Mixing bowl: To combine your sauce ingredients effortlessly.
Variations
Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, add sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dish.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Different Proteins: Try using shrimp or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of cooking times!
Extra Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your soy sauce and oyster sauce are gluten-free to keep this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Spicy Black Pepper Chicken over fluffy steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the spice.
A chilled glass of white wine or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.
Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for a lovely presentation.
FAQs about Spicy Black Pepper Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I love the tenderness of chicken thighs, chicken breasts can be a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as breasts may cook a bit faster.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking for a fiery kick, consider adding sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also increase the amount of freshly ground black pepper for extra heat!
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor. Just cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
What can I serve with Spicy Black Pepper Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. A crisp green salad or some sautéed vegetables on the side can add a refreshing touch!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it can be gluten-free! Just ensure that your soy sauce and oyster sauce are labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this delicious meal without worry!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Spicy Black Pepper Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy for you and your loved ones. The vibrant flavors and delightful aroma fill your kitchen, making it a warm and inviting space. I love how this dish brings everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion. Plus, it’s so easy to customize, ensuring that everyone at the table leaves satisfied. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the sizzle, and enjoy the deliciousness that this recipe brings to your home!
A flavorful and spicy dish featuring tender chicken thighs coated in a savory black pepper sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon black pepper (freshly ground)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces and season with salt. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Sauté the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce mixture over it. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the green onions and stir to combine. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option.
For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with tofu and adjust cooking times accordingly.
