Black pepper chicken is a fantastic choice for several reasons:

Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Customizable: You can adjust the spice level and swap out vegetables based on your preferences.

To make a delicious black pepper chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

1 lb (454 g) chicken breasts or thighs: Cut into 1/4” thick slices.
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)

1 tablespoon light soy sauce
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon cornstarch

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

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken slices with the marinade ingredients: light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken and let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: chicken broth, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, black pepper, cornstarch, sugar, and salt. Set aside.

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sear for about 30 seconds until lightly browned, then flip and cook for another 15-20 seconds. The chicken should be mostly cooked but slightly pink inside. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Sauté the minced ginger and garlic until fragrant, about 20 seconds. Then, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir quickly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss everything to coat in the sauce.

Serve the black pepper chicken hot over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.

Cut Against the Grain: Always cut the chicken against the grain for tenderness.
High Heat Cooking: Stir-frying at high heat helps achieve that coveted restaurant-style sear.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots based on your preference.

Black pepper chicken is a flavorful, quick, and healthy dish that will impress your family and friends. With its tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich black pepper sauce, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Try making this dish at home and enjoy a delicious meal that rivals your favorite takeout! For more recipes and tips, check out Omnivore's Cookbook and Tiffy Cooks.