Black Pepper Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love making Black Pepper Chicken because it’s packed with bold, savory flavors and comes together in no time. The star of this dish is the generous amount of freshly ground black pepper, which gives the chicken a sharp, aromatic kick that really elevates the whole meal. The sauce is rich, savory, and just slightly spicy, with a hint of sweetness to balance out the heat. What I enjoy most about this recipe is how simple it is—just a few ingredients and a quick cooking time—but the flavor is anything but simple. Whether I’m making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this dish never disappoints!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)

• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (or more for extra heat)

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

• Salt to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and half of the black pepper on both sides.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey (if using), stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then add it to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).

6. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chicken to absorb the sauce.

7. Sprinkle the remaining black pepper over the chicken and sauce, adjusting to your preferred level of spice.

8. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you can have this delicious meal ready in around 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add a dash of red pepper flakes if I want an extra kick. For a slightly more savory twist, I’ll use tamari instead of soy sauce to give the dish a deeper umami flavor. If I’m looking for more depth, I might toss in some sliced onions or bell peppers to cook along with the chicken. For a healthier option, I’ll swap the chicken breasts with chicken thighs or even use boneless skinless fish fillets, like tilapia, for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I usually microwave the chicken for 1-2 minutes or gently warm it in a skillet over low heat. You may want to add a little splash of chicken broth to loosen up the sauce when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They’re slightly more tender and juicy, and they’ll absorb the sauce really well. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! If you want more heat, you can add extra black pepper or include some chili flakes. I’ve also added a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.

Can I make this dish in advance?

This dish is great for meal prep! You can make it a day or two ahead, store it in an airtight container, and reheat it when needed. The flavors actually improve as they sit.

Can I make this dish without the cornstarch?

Yes, you can skip the cornstarch if you prefer a thinner sauce. The cornstarch is just there to help thicken the sauce a little, but it’s still delicious without it.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken, bold black pepper, and a savory sauce makes for a satisfying and delicious meal that’s never boring. I love how simple it is to prepare, but the flavor feels so complex. Whether I’m craving something with a little heat or just want a comforting dish with great flavor, this recipe is always a winner!

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