Black Pepper Chicken
A flavorful and savory dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a peppery sauce with a hint of garlic and soy sauce. This dish balances the heat of black pepper with the richness of the sauce, making it a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Typically served with rice or vegetables, this dish can be customized to your spice level preference and makes for a delicious, easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 2-3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce optional
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch optional, to thicken the sauce
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces to ensure even and quick cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt. Set aside for a few minutes to allow the seasoning to infuse the chicken.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and minced garlic. If you're adding cornstarch to thicken the sauce, mix it with a small amount of water to create a slurry.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6-7 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
- Add the Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, pour the sauce mixture over the chicken. Stir to evenly coat the chicken with the sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Optional Add: If you're using vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or red pepper flakes, toss them into the pan during the last few minutes of cooking. Stir them into the sauce to soften and release their flavors.
Notes
For a spicier version of this dish, feel free to increase the amount of black pepper or add some crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the seasoning to your taste and add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and texture. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the black pepper and use a lower-sodium soy sauce.