If you’re in the mood for something delightfully savory and packed with bold flavors, the Garlic Black Pepper Chicken is just the ticket. This dish combines crispy chicken thighs with a luscious sauce that’s full of garlic and a peppery kick, making it both comforting and exciting!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Burst of Flavor: The combination of garlic, black pepper, and soy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your taste, whether you like it mild or with a strong peppery punch.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for both family meals and entertaining guests, this dish always leaves people wanting more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Garlic Black Pepper Chicken is straightforward, with each ingredient playing a crucial role. From the tender chicken thighs to the bold sauces and spices, everything contributes to the irresistible taste.
- Boneless skin-on chicken thighs: These provide a tender and juicy base for our recipe.
- Oyster sauce: Adds a subtle sweet-salty depth to the sauce.
- Soy sauce: Essential for that classic umami flavor.
- Black pepper: The star ingredient that gives the dish its signature kick.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic richness and complements the pepper beautifully.
- Honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the other strong flavors.
- Ketchup: Adds a hint of tanginess and vibrant color.
- Butter: Ensures a rich, smooth sauce texture.
Variations
This Garlic Black Pepper Chicken can easily be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. It’s flexible enough for substitutions and local ingredients.
- With Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers or broccoli for a colorful and nutritious twist.
- Spicy Version: Add red chili flakes for those who like their chicken with a bit more heat.
How to Make Garlic Black Pepper Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your chicken thighs with a generous amount of salt and black pepper on both sides. This sets the flavor foundation of your dish, ensuring each bite is as flavorful as the last.
Step 2: Pan-fry the Chicken
Heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, lay the chicken thighs in, skin side down, and let them sizzle for 2-3 minutes on each side until the skin turns golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the black pepper, minced garlic, oyster sauce, soy sauce, honey, and ketchup. Stir well to blend these bold flavors together.
Step 4: Cook with Sauce
Melt butter in the same pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Allow it to simmer for a minute before returning the chicken to the pan. Cook on medium-high heat for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side, ensuring the chicken soaks up all that spicy goodness.
Pro Tips for Making Garlic Black Pepper Chicken
- Perfect Crispiness: Ensure the pan is hot before adding the chicken for a beautiful crispy skin.
- Sauce Consistency: Simmer the sauce just enough so it thickens without burning—balance is key!
- Balanced Spice: Adjust your black pepper to taste; it can be a mild background flavor or the main event.
- Garlic Game: For the best punch, mince your garlic finely. Fresh garlic makes all the difference.
How to Serve Garlic Black Pepper Chicken
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh coriander or sliced green onions can add a pop of color and a fresh touch to your Garlic Black Pepper Chicken. Consider a wedge of lime on the side for a zesty finish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or garlic mashed potatoes. For something lighter, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a restaurant-style presentation, consider slicing the chicken and fanning it out over a bed of rice or alongside roasted vegetables. A drizzle of extra sauce can add shine and depth, ensuring it’s as much a visual feast as it is a culinary one.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, ready for a quick meal or weekday lunch.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, defrost it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat this dish in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the sauce from drying out. Alternatively, use the microwave, covering the dish to retain moisture.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used. However, they may need a little more oil to prevent drying out during cooking, and adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
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Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower. The sauce complements these ingredients well, offering a hearty vegetarian option.
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What’s the best way to ensure my sauce doesn’t burn?
Keep the heat on medium and don’t leave the sauce unattended. Stir frequently and add a splash of water if it becomes too thick too quickly.
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Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it gently when ready to use.
Final Thoughts
The Garlic Black Pepper Chicken is a real treat for the taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just pampering yourself, it’s a dish that promises an exciting dining experience. I hope you give it a try and fall in love with it as much as I have!
Print
Garlic Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Delicious garlic black pepper chicken featuring crispy-skinned boneless thighs cooked to perfection in a flavorful black pepper sauce, making for a quick and savory meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 piece boneless skin-on chicken thigh
- Salt and pepper to season
Sauce
- 1.5 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 0.5 tbsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1.5 tbsp garlic minced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2.5 tbsp ketchup
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Season the boneless chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides evenly.
- Cook the chicken skin-side down: Heat a pan with oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken skin side down, and pan-fry for 2-3 minutes until crispy and golden. Turn and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce mixture: In a bowl, combine oyster sauce, soy sauce, black pepper, minced garlic, honey, and ketchup. Mix well to create the sauce.
- Create the sauce base: Turn the pan heat to medium, add butter, and pour in the sauce mixture. Let it simmer for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
- Combine chicken with sauce: Return the chicken thighs to the pan. Cook on medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, allowing the chicken to soak up the sauce and develop additional flavor. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of black pepper according to your spice preference.
- For extra flavor, add sliced onions or vegetables of choice during the sauce simmering stage.
- Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 150g)
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
