Introduction
Welcome to a culinary adventure featuring a delightful Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry! This dish is perfect for those evenings when you’re craving something quick yet bursting with flavor. The succulent, thinly sliced chicken combines beautifully with fresh vegetables and a hint of spice from black pepper, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Whether you’re serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or tender noodles, this stir-fry is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with cornstarch, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated and ready to cook.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, allowing the oil to shimmer invitingly.
- Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer, and let it sear for about 3-4 minutes, until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the heat and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, introduce the sliced onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Stir-fry these colorful vegetables for about 2-3 minutes until they’re tender-crisp and vibrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Heat through for an additional 2 minutes.
- Adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
- Serve this delightful stir-fry immediately over a bed of fluffy cooked rice or tender noodles, and enjoy the burst of flavors!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes during the stir-fry process. You can also enhance the dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving. If you prefer more crunch, consider adding snap peas or broccoli to the mix!
Cooking Techniques
This stir-fry employs the technique of high-heat cooking, which is essential for achieving that perfect tender-crisp texture in the vegetables. Make sure to keep the ingredients moving in the skillet to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking. Using a wok can heighten the experience, thanks to its design that allows for quick heat distribution.
FAQ
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for each ingredient.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to preserve the texture of the chicken and veggies.
Conclusion
Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry is a delightful and quick meal that brings a rich palette of flavors and colors to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for a casual gathering, this dish will not disappoint. Enjoy every savory bite, and remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun in the kitchen!