Are you looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further than this 20-Minute Black Pepper Chicken! This dish is packed with flavor, featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a spicy black pepper sauce. Perfect for serving with rice or noodles, you can whip this up in under half an hour. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast (sliced into thin strips)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon of water)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced, any color)
- 1 onion (sliced)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
- Steamed rice or noodles (for serving)
Timing
Preparation for this flavorful Black Pepper Chicken takes about 10 minutes, while cooking will take about 10 minutes. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rice vinegar. Mix well to coat the chicken. Let it marinate while you prepare the vegetables, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the pan and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Garlic
Add the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic to the pan. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Black Pepper Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your quick and tasty meal!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on 4 servings) of Black Pepper Chicken:
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
This dish is a great source of protein and flavor, making it a wholesome dinner option!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a healthier twist, consider the following substitutions:
- Use skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
- Include a variety of colorful vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or carrots for added nutrients.
- Reduce the amount of oil used for cooking to decrease calories.
Serving Suggestions
This Black Pepper Chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice.
- Fried rice for added flavor and texture.
- Stir-fried vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on cooking time to ensure it remains tender.
- Not marinating long enough: Even a short marinating time adds flavor; aim for at least 5 minutes.
- Using too high heat: Cooking on high heat is necessary, but ensure it doesn’t burn.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have leftovers, here are some storage tips:
- Let the dish cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in the microwave or stir-fry in a pan until heated through.
Conclusion
Making 20-Minute Black Pepper Chicken is not only quick and easy but also brings incredible flavor to your table. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time. Try this recipe tonight and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly, and thaw it in the fridge beforehand for better marinade absorption.
What can I use instead of soy sauce?
For a gluten-free alternative, try coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce.
How spicy is this dish?
The level of spice can be adjusted by adding more or less black pepper; for added heat, consider including red pepper flakes.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or baby corn to enhance the dish.