Ah, Copycat Black Pepper Chicken! If you’re like me and have ever craved that comforting, savory dish from your favorite Chinese takeout restaurant, then you’re in for a treat. This recipe is a total game-changer! I remember the first time I decided to recreate it at home; the smell filled my kitchen with a warmth that immediately transported me back to those cozy dinners with friends, laughing over heaping bowls of rice and delicious stir-fried dishes.
Not only is it an absolute hit at the dinner table, but it’s also super easy to whip up on a weeknight. Plus, I love that I can control the ingredients and make it just the way I like it! So let’s dig into what makes this Copycat Black Pepper Chicken special, shall we?
What’s in Copycat Black Pepper Chicken?
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that come together to create this flavorful dish:
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! I usually opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they’re lean and cook quickly. You could also use thighs for a juicier variation.
Peppercorns: Coarsely cracked black peppercorns give this dish its signature kick. Don’t skimp on this—fresh cracked makes all the difference!
Soy Sauce: I love using low-sodium soy sauce to balance the flavors without adding too much salt. It provides that umami depth that complements the chicken perfectly.
Garlic and Ginger: These fragrant aromatics enhance the taste and bring warmth to the dish. Fresh is definitely best for that zesty flavor!
Green Onions: Sliced finely, they add a nice pop of color and freshness. You can never have too many scallions in stir-fry!
Bell Peppers: I usually choose a mix of red and green bell peppers for sweetness and crunch. They complement the dish while adding a vibrant aesthetic.
Vegetable Oil: For cooking, I prefer using canola or grapeseed oil due to their high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Is Copycat Black Pepper Chicken Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish has several health benefits while still being satisfying.
Chicken Breast: It’s a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
Peppercorns: Believe it or not, they have antioxidant properties and can aid in digestion.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Using a low-sodium option helps reduce sodium intake, making it a heart-healthier choice.
The only thing to keep in mind is portion control with the soy sauce, as even low-sodium options can be higher in sodium than you might want. Pair it with brown rice or a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp cracked black peppercorns
– 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red and green)
– 3 green onions, sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Serves 4 people
How to Make Copycat Black Pepper Chicken?
1. Start by marinating your chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and half of the cracked pepper. Let it sit for about 15-30 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and the remaining cracked peppercorns. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the peppers to soften just a bit while maintaining some crunch.
5. Lastly, stir in the green onions, cooking for another minute and mixing everything well.
6. Serve over your favorite rice or noodles, and enjoy every bite!
A Dash of Creativity
Feel free to get creative with this dish! You can add other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition and color, or even some heat with sliced chili peppers if you enjoy spice. If you want to make it vegetarian, swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh—just make sure to press it to remove excess moisture.
I really hope you give this Copycat Black Pepper Chicken a try! It’s one of those recipes that brings back fond memories, and I know it’ll become a favorite for you and your loved ones, as it has for me. Don’t forget to share your experience with me, as I’d love to hear how your version turns out! Happy cooking!
