Epic Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Rice
Are you ready to take your taste buds on a delightful adventure? This Epic Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Rice is not just another weeknight dinner—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will leave everyone at the table craving more. With tender, marinated chicken and a vibrant medley of bell peppers, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Let’s get started on a recipe that is simple to make and richly rewarding.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This stir-fry offers the perfect balance of protein and vegetables, making it a wholesome meal choice. The chicken is marinated for maximum flavor, while the bell peppers add a crisp, colorful touch. Furthermore, the quick cooking time (only 20 minutes!) ensures you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, pairing it with fluffy steamed rice creates a comforting base that soaks up all the delicious sauce. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family looking for a meal that pleases all palates, this dish is sure to make its way into your regular rotation.
Pro Tips for Making Epic Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor and tenderness. If you have time, marinating overnight yields even better results. Conversely, if you’re in a hurry, even 15 minutes will still add great flavor.
2. **High Heat is Key:** When stir-frying, ensure your wok or skillet is preheated. The high heat seals in flavor and cooks the chicken quickly, keeping it moist.
3. **Veggie Variety:** Feel free to swap out bell peppers for other colorful veggies like snap peas, broccoli, or carrots to tailor the dish to your liking or based on what you have on hand.
4. **Rice Substitutes:** While steamed white rice complements this dish perfectly, consider using brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
5. **Protein Variations:** You can easily customize this recipe based on your protein preference. Try using beef, shrimp, or tofu for a twist!
Ingredients
The following ingredients will serve 4 people, and the preparation is straightforward and quick. Here’s what you will need:
- for the Chicken:
– 1 pound thinly sliced chicken breast
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch - for the Veggies:
– 1 cup green bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup red bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced into strips
– Chopped green onions for garnishing - for the Sauce:
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– ¼ cup oyster sauce
– 2 cloves minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional) - for the Side:
– 2 cups steamed white rice
Instructions
Step 1: Begin by marinating the chicken. In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken breast, soy sauce, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Mix well to ensure each piece is coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Wash and slice the green and red bell peppers and onion into strips, and chop the green onions for garnish. This will ensure your stir-fry is ready to go without delays.
Step 3: Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat until it’s very hot. Add a splash of oil to the pan and then add the marinated chicken. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s lightly golden and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook in batches.
Step 4: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary, and toss in the onion strips. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 5: Next, add the sliced bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry them briefly for 2-3 minutes, just until they are tender but still crisp. You don’t want them to lose their vibrant color!
Step 6: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground black pepper, and honey (if using) until thoroughly combined. Pour this sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the pan. Stir to combine all of the ingredients.
Step 7: Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld. Ensure everything is heated through and the sauce coats the chicken and vegetables.
Step 8: Serve the stir-fry hot, garnished with chopped green onions, alongside fluffy steamed rice for a complete meal!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s recommended to thaw and slice the chicken beforehand for even cooking and better marinating.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce alternative or tamari sauce.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge for added convenience.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What other veggies can I add to the stir-fry?
You can add any of your favorite vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for more variety and nutritional value.
Conclusion
This Epic Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Rice is a delicious and versatile dish that brings together savory flavors and crisp vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, it’s guaranteed to impress. Try it out, and don’t forget to customize it to your taste! Bon appétit!
