Description
Savor the bold flavors of black pepper chicken, a spicy sensation that dances with aromatic seasonings and tender meat. Zesty pepper notes and savory spices create an irresistible meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs
- 2 tbsp chicken stock
Spices and Seasonings:
- 3 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp salt
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
Cooking and Finishing Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring optimal seasoning absorption.
- Mix ground black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and white pepper in a shallow bowl, creating a robust spice blend.
- Thoroughly coat each chicken piece with the spice mixture, pressing gently to help seasonings adhere completely.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken into the skillet, allowing each piece to develop a golden-brown crust without overcrowding.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, turning only once to maintain a crispy exterior and ensure even cooking.
- Whisk chicken stock, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth and free of lumps.
- Pour sauce mixture over chicken in the skillet, reducing heat to medium and stirring to coat evenly.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing sauce to thicken and chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove from heat, drizzle with sesame oil, and garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a vibrant finish.
- Let chicken rest for 3-4 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute and enhance overall flavor.
Notes
- Achieve maximum flavor by patting chicken completely dry, which helps spices stick better and creates a crispier exterior.
- Use freshly ground black pepper for an intense, more aromatic spice profile that elevates the entire dish’s taste.
- Prevent burning by maintaining medium-high heat and avoiding overcrowding in the skillet, ensuring each chicken piece browns evenly.
- For a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and use cornstarch alternative like arrowroot powder.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg