Garlic Black Pepper Chicken: A Flavorful Recipe for Delicious Meals

Garlic Black Pepper Chicken is a dish that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the heart. As I prepare this flavorful recipe, I can’t help but think about the rich history behind it. Originating from various Asian cuisines, this dish has become a beloved staple in many households around the world. The combination of garlic and black pepper creates a savory symphony that elevates the tender chicken to new heights, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings.

What I love most about Garlic Black Pepper Chicken is its perfect balance of taste and texture. The aromatic garlic infuses the chicken with a robust flavor, while the black pepper adds just the right amount of heat. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly convenient to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that promises to impress your family and friends!

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. **Choose Your Chicken**: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work just as well. Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. This helps them cook evenly and absorb all the flavors. 2. **Marinate the Chicken**: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sugar, sesame oil, and salt. Mix everything well until the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for a few hours in the fridge will enhance the flavor even more.

Preparing the Sauce

3. **Make the Garlic Black Pepper Sauce**: In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and freshly ground black pepper. This will be the star of our dish, so don’t skimp on the black pepper! The combination of garlic and black pepper gives the chicken a robust flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Cooking the Chicken

4. **Heat the Oil**: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough that it shimmers but not smoking. This is crucial for achieving that perfect sear on the chicken. 5. **Cook the Chicken**: Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until it’s golden brown on one side. 6. **Flip and Add the Sauce**: After the first side is nicely browned, flip the chicken pieces over. Add the garlic and black pepper mixture to the pan. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is well coated with the garlic and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. 7. **Check for Doneness**: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, simply cut a piece in half to check that it’s no longer pink.

Assembling the Dish

8. **Garnish and Serve**: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch and a pop of color. 9. **Pair with Rice or Noodles**: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. I usually serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or toss it with some stir-fried noodles for a complete meal. The sauce seeps into the rice or noodles, making every bite delicious.

Tips for the Best Garlic Black Pepper Chicken

10. **Adjusting Spice Levels**: If you love heat, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil to the garlic mixture. This will give your dish an extra kick! 11. **Vegetable Additions**: For a more balanced meal, consider adding some vegetables. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can be stir-fried along with the chicken. Just add them to the pan after the chicken is halfway cooked, so they retain their crunch. 12. **Storage**: If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. 13. **Meal Prep**: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the steps above for a quick and delicious

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, consider 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 Garlic Black Pepper Chicken allows you to customize it to your taste, making it a perfect fit for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with me! I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative twists you added. Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Trust me, once you taste this Garlic Black Pepper Chicken, it will become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking! Print