Black Pepper Chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine that highlights the aromatic flavor of black pepper. Unlike many traditional Chinese dishes that use white pepper, this recipe showcases black pepper's complex and floral notes, making it a unique and flavorful option. The dish typically features sliced chicken, bell peppers, onions, and a savory sauce that is both spicy and slightly sweet.

To prepare Black Pepper Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 lb (454 g) chicken breasts or thighs, sliced against the grain
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Sauce:

1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon salt

For Stir-Frying:

2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
1 tablespoon minced ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 white onion, chopped
2 bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors for visual appeal)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by marinating the chicken. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken slices with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Set this mixture aside as it will form the base of your sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and sear for about 30 seconds on one side until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 15-20 seconds until browned but still slightly pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Sauté the minced ginger and garlic until fragrant, then add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 20 seconds until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and stir until it thickens, which should take just a few seconds. Add the chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated. Serve hot over steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Cut Against the Grain: For tender chicken, always slice against the grain and keep the pieces uniform in size.
Marinate: Don’t skip the marinating step; it enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
High Heat Cooking: Stir-frying at high heat helps achieve that desirable char while keeping the chicken juicy.
Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of black pepper or use less of the sauce.

Can I use other proteins?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu.

Is Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, to make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Black Pepper Chicken is not only a delightful dish but also a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish will impress everyone at the table. Try it tonight and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade Chinese-American cuisine!