Homemade Recipe for Chinese-Style Chicken with Black Pepper: A Flavorful Dish

Why Black Pepper Chicken is a Popular Chinese Dish

Chinese-style chicken with black pepper is a beloved dish known for its bold flavors, tender chicken, and rich sauce. Originating from Chinese cuisine, this dish features a combination of marinated chicken stir-fried with a fragrant black pepper sauce that adds a spicy and savory depth to every bite.

Unlike many sweet or mild Chinese dishes, black pepper chicken is known for its intense and warming flavors. The peppery heat combined with soy sauce and fresh vegetables makes this dish a favorite in Chinese restaurants and home kitchens alike.

Essential Ingredients for Chinese-Style Black Pepper Chicken

To make an authentic Chinese-style black pepper chicken dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh meat, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is key to achieving the dish’s signature bold and spicy flavor.
• Soy Sauce: A mix of light and dark soy sauce provides a rich umami taste.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds depth and enhances the dish's savory flavor.
• Garlic & Ginger: These aromatics bring a fragrant touch to the dish.
• Onions & Bell Peppers: Sliced onions and bell peppers add sweetness and crunch.
• Sesame Oil: A drizzle at the end adds a nutty aroma.
• Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce and gives the chicken a silky texture.

Using fresh and high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor of your homemade black pepper chicken.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Black Pepper Chicken

Follow this easy step-by-step guide to prepare a delicious Chinese-style black pepper chicken at home:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: Mix 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 cup of water in a small bowl.
3. Heat the Oil: In a wok or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan and stir-fry until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
5. Stir-Fry the Aromatics: Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan, then stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant.
6. Add Vegetables: Toss in sliced onions and bell peppers, stir-frying until slightly tender but still crisp.
7. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce mixture, and stir well.
8. Final Touch: Sprinkle additional black pepper for extra heat and finish with a drizzle of sesame oil.
9. Serve: Enjoy the black pepper chicken over steamed rice or noodles.

This quick and easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors right at home!

Expert Cooking Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken

To make your black pepper chicken even better, keep these cooking tips in mind:

• Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Pre-ground pepper lacks the same bold and aromatic flavor as freshly cracked black pepper.
• High Heat Stir-Frying: Cooking over high heat ensures that the chicken stays tender and the vegetables retain their crunch.
• Balance the Sauce: Adjust soy sauce and black pepper to taste—if you prefer a spicier dish, add more pepper.
• Velveting Technique: Marinating the chicken with cornstarch helps to create a silky texture.

With these expert tips, your homemade Chinese-style black pepper chicken will turn out perfectly every time.

Where to Find Authentic Chinese Ingredients

Finding the right ingredients is key to making authentic Chinese-style black pepper chicken. For premium soy sauce, fresh black pepper, and authentic Chinese seasonings, visit Chinese Food. Our curated selection of high-quality ingredients ensures that your homemade dishes taste just like they would in a traditional Chinese kitchen.

Shop for all your essential Chinese cooking ingredients today at Chinese Food and elevate your home cooking experience. Click here to explore our selection.