Introduction
Welcome to a feast of flavor with this delightful Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a bold peppery sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. It’s not just a meal; it’s a burst of color and nutrients on your plate, all cooked in a matter of minutes. Let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with black pepper, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix everything well, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for about 20 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. The oil will shimmer when it’s ready, creating the perfect base for stir-frying.
- Carefully add the marinated chicken to the hot pan. Stir-fry it for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove it from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, toss in the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, carrot, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry these beauties for 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender while still retaining their crispness.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan, and give everything a good toss to combine. Let it cook together for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish your stir fry with freshly chopped green onions for a touch of color and an extra pop of flavor. Serve it hot and enjoy!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize this stir fry with your favorite vegetables, such as snap peas or mushrooms!
- If you like it spicy, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce.
- For a gluten-free version, swap out soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
Cooking Techniques
Stir frying is a fantastic cooking method that keeps your ingredients crisp and full of vibrant color. The key to a great stir fry is high heat and quick cooking, which locks in flavors and nutrients. Make sure to prep all your ingredients beforehand, so you can work quickly once you start cooking!
FAQ
Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes! Just remember to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before adding them to the stir fry.
How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat to retain the texture.
Conclusion
This Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry is not only quick to make but also incredibly satisfying and full of flavor. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish will surely become a favorite. So grab your wok, get cooking, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a homemade stir fry!