Garlic Black Pepper Chicken: A Flavorful Recipe for Delicious Meals

Garlic Black Pepper Chicken is a dish that never fails to impress, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. This flavorful recipe combines the aromatic essence of garlic with the bold kick of black pepper, creating a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. Originating from various Asian cuisines, this dish has become a beloved staple in many households around the world, celebrated for its simplicity and robust flavors.

What I love most about Garlic Black Pepper Chicken is how it perfectly balances taste and texture. The tender chicken, infused with the rich flavors of garlic and pepper, creates a delightful harmony that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by washing the chicken under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial as it helps the chicken to sear properly later on. 2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. This ensures that they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the marinade. 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sugar, sesame oil, and salt. Mix everything well until the chicken is evenly coated. The cornstarch will help to create a nice crust when we cook the chicken. 4. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator will enhance the flavors even more.

Preparing the Sauce

5. While the chicken is marinating, let’s prepare the garlic black pepper sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and freshly ground black pepper. This combination is what gives the dish its signature flavor. 6. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and black pepper mixture. This is optional, but it adds a nice kick to the dish.

Cooking the Chicken

7. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the vegetable oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan. 8. Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches. This will help achieve a nice sear. 9. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. This allows the chicken to develop a golden-brown crust. After that, stir the chicken to ensure it cooks evenly on all sides. 10. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. You can check the doneness by cutting into a piece; it should be opaque and juices should run clear. 11. Once the chicken is cooked, push it to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, add the garlic and black pepper mixture. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. 12. Mix the garlic and black pepper into the chicken, ensuring that every piece is coated with the flavorful mixture. Cook for an additional minute to let the flavors meld together.

Assembling the Dish

13. Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste the chicken and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or black pepper according to your preference. 14. To serve, place a generous portion of cooked rice or noodles on each plate. Spoon the garlic black pepper chicken over the top, ensuring that you get some of that delicious sauce. 15. Finally, garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. The green onions not only add color but also a mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Tips for Serving

16. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas. You can quickly sauté them in the same skillet after cooking the chicken for a complete meal. 17. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. 18. For a twist, you can also add other vegetables to the chicken while cooking, such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes as the chicken for even cooking. 19. If you want to make this dish spicier, consider adding sliced fresh chilies or a dash of hot sauce when serving. 20. Enjoy your homemade garlic black pepper

Conclusion:

In summary, this Garlic Black Pepper Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance. The combination of garlic and black pepper creates a savory, aromatic dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this dish with a side of steamed jasmine rice or a fresh garden salad to balance the rich flavors. You can also experiment with variations by adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a colorful stir-fry, or even tossing in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. The versatility of this recipe allows you to make it your own, so feel free to get creative! I encourage you to give this Garlic Black Pepper Chicken a try and share your experience with me. I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any unique twists you added. Cooking is all about sharing and enjoying, so let’s connect over this delightful dish! Happy cooking!

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