If you’re looking for a delicious and quick meal, Black Pepper Chicken is a perfect choice. This dish is packed with bold flavors, thanks to its savory black pepper sauce, and is a great addition to your list of healthy dinner recipes chicken lovers will enjoy. With a balance of heat, sweetness, and umami, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make
- Uses simple ingredients
- Great for meal prep
- A healthier alternative to takeout
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or olive oil)
For the Black Pepper Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced, any color)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the Flavors: Stir in black pepper, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and chicken broth. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot over rice or with a side of steamed vegetables.
Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken
- Use freshly ground black pepper for a more robust flavor.
- Adjust the pepper quantity based on your spice preference.
- Swap chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pepper chicken with jasmine rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. You can also use it as a filling for chicken stuffed peppers for a creative twist.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
This dish is not only delicious but also fits well into healthy dinner recipes. Whether you’re craving a quick meal or planning a health dinner, Black Pepper Chicken is a fantastic choice. So next time you’re thinking about what to cook, remember this flavorful dish—it’s a great way to think food in a new and exciting way.
