Delicious Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a yummy dinner idea that’s packed with flavor and easy to make, Black Pepper Chicken is the perfect dish. This bold, spicy recipe is quick to prepare and is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it on a plate with steamed rice or making a vibrant chicken poke bowl, the deep flavor of black pepper makes this dish irresistible.

Black pepper chicken is versatile enough to be paired with various sides, making it suitable for different meal occasions. You can enjoy it as a healthy Weight Watchers dinner, serve it on a budget for cheap summer meals, or even use it to make a dairy-free meal. If you’re craving something simple yet flavorful, this dish is your go-to solution.

Let’s dive into how to make black pepper chicken and explore some fun variations that will keep you coming back for more.

Save

Why Black Pepper Chicken Is a Perfect Dinner Idea

Black pepper chicken is the ultimate yummy dinner idea because it’s full of flavor and easy to make. The chicken is marinated in a savory black pepper sauce, which results in a dish that is both spicy and flavorful. You can adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your taste, whether you want a little heat or a bold, peppery punch.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can serve it with a side of rice or vegetables for a classic dinner, or use it in chicken poke bowls for a lighter, fresh meal. Whether you’re looking for a dinner idea for one or preparing a meal for the whole family, black pepper chicken is simple to prepare and always delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Black Pepper Chicken

To make black pepper chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (for a touch of sweetness)
• 2 teaspoons ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

These ingredients come together to create a perfectly balanced marinade with the right amount of spice and flavor. If you want a bit more heat, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or some hot sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Black Pepper Chicken

This recipe for black pepper chicken is quick and easy. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and grated ginger. Stir to combine. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and let it sit for at least 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors. If you have more time, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours for an even bolder flavor.

Save

2. Cook the Chicken:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken to the pan in a single layer. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, flipping the pieces occasionally, until it is golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

Save

3. Serve:

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and serve it immediately. Black pepper chicken can be served in a variety of ways. You can enjoy it with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or in a poke bowl for a fresh, healthy meal.

Save

If you’re serving it in a poke bowl, simply place the cooked chicken on top of a bed of rice, and add your favorite toppings like avocado, cucumber, shredded carrots, and edamame.

How to Customize Your Black Pepper Chicken

This black pepper chicken recipe is highly customizable, and you can easily adjust it to fit your taste preferences:

• Add vegetables: Feel free to toss in some veggies like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli while cooking the chicken. These veggies will absorb the flavors of the black pepper sauce and add extra texture to the dish.
• Make it spicy: If you like extra heat, add more black pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Use other proteins: You can swap the chicken for other proteins like tofu for a dairy-free meal, or beef for a more hearty option.
• Add nuts: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.

If you’re craving a twist on the classic black pepper chicken, try adding a drizzle of bang bang sauce to give it a creamy, spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions for Black Pepper Chicken

Here are a few great ways to serve black pepper chicken:

• Chicken Poke Bowl: Serve the black pepper chicken on top of a bowl of rice, with your favorite poke bowl toppings like cucumber, avocado, and pickled ginger.
• With Rice and Vegetables: Serve the chicken with steamed white or brown rice and sautéed vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, and carrots for a balanced meal.
• In a Wrap: Make a quick wrap using a whole grain tortilla, adding the chicken, some greens, and your favorite sauce for a healthy, portable lunch.

If you’re looking for weight watchers recipes for dinner, this black pepper chicken is a great option that’s both filling and healthy.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Black Pepper Chicken

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• In the fridge: Store leftover black pepper chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave it or warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. If you’ve frozen it, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Black Pepper Chicken

To ensure your black pepper chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not marinating long enough: Give the chicken enough time to absorb the flavors from the marinade. A quick 15-minute marinade is fine, but letting it sit for at least 30 minutes will give you the best results.
• Overcrowding the pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure it browns evenly.
• Not adjusting the pepper: If you don’t like your food too spicy, be sure to adjust the amount of black pepper in the recipe. If you prefer extra heat, feel free to add more.

Save

FAQs About Black Pepper Chicken

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently before serving.

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.

Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely! You can add spices like garlic, cumin, or chili powder to the marinade for an extra depth of flavor.

Final Thoughts on Black Pepper Chicken

Black pepper chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any dinner occasion. Whether you serve it in a chicken poke bowl, with steamed rice, or in a wrap, the bold, peppery flavor will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s a great option for dairy-free meals, Weight Watchers recipes, or even cheap summer meals.

Try this black pepper chicken recipe today and enjoy a delicious, quick, and healthy dinner that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share, save, and subscribe for more tasty recipes!

Print