Dinner

Spicy Salt and Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry

If you’re in the mood for a quick and flavorful dinner, this salt and pepper chicken stir-fry is the answer. It’s a delightful mix of tender chicken pieces seasoned with aromatic spices, all cooked to perfection in just one pan. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Prepare for a burst of flavor! The combination of crunchy bell peppers, zesty garlic, and the kick from freshly ground black pepper makes this stir-fry a standout. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also excites your taste buds with its spicy notes and savory goodness.

Whether you’re a stir-fry enthusiast or just looking to spice things up in your weeknight meals, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients and Preparation

This lively salt and pepper chicken stir-fry combines a few key components to create a delightful meal. Start with boneless chicken thighs or breasts, which contribute to a juicy texture.

The addition of colorful bell peppers and a medium onion not only elevates the visual appeal but also enhances the flavor profile with their natural sweetness.

To complement the main ingredients, fresh garlic is essential, adding aromatic depth. The seasoning mix of black pepper and salt brings that signature kick, while soy sauce ties everything together with its umami richness.

For those looking to add a little crunch, a touch of cornstarch can create a crispy coating on the chicken. This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for those busy evenings when time is of the essence.

Cooking Process

To begin, marinate your chicken pieces in soy sauce, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. If you opt for cornstarch, mix that in for an extra layer of texture. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall taste.

Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan until it shimmers, indicating it’s ready for cooking. Carefully add the chicken in a single layer, allowing it to sear and develop a golden crust.

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan and set it aside, keeping the juices and flavors intact for the next stage of the stir-fry.

Vegetable Sautéing

The next step involves adding sliced onions and bell peppers to the same pan. This method not only saves time but also ensures that the vegetables soak up the lingering flavors of the chicken.

Stir-fry the vegetables for just a few minutes until they soften slightly but retain a crisp bite.

Incorporate minced garlic towards the end of this stage. Garlic cooks quickly and adds a fragrant aroma that will enhance the overall dish.

Bringing It All Together

Once the vegetables have reached the desired tenderness, it’s time to reintroduce the chicken to the pan. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that the chicken is well mixed with the vegetables.

Allow them to heat through for a couple of minutes, adjusting the seasoning as necessary. This step is crucial for harmonizing the flavors throughout the dish.

With the chicken and vegetables combined, you can admire the vibrant colors and enticing aroma that fills your kitchen.

Garnishing and Serving

Presentation plays a significant role in any meal, and this stir-fry is no exception.

Transfer the dish to your serving plates and garnish generously with chopped green onions. You might also opt to sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added burst of flavor and texture.

For a touch of authenticity, serve your stir-fry alongside a small bowl of soy sauce and chopsticks, inviting your guests to dive in and enjoy every bite.

Variations and Customizations

This stir-fry can easily adapt to suit personal tastes.

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables—broccoli, snap peas, or carrots could be delightful additions.

If you prefer a spicier flair, consider adding sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili oil. Each modification allows for creativity in the kitchen while keeping the essence of this dish intact.

Quick and Flavorful Salt and Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry

Salt and pepper chicken stir-fry with colorful bell peppers and onions, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

This salt and pepper chicken stir-fry is a vibrant and tasty dish featuring crispy chicken coated in a blend of salt and pepper seasoning, tossed with colorful bell peppers and onions. The dish delivers a perfect balance of crispy textures and bold flavors, making it a satisfying meal any night of the week.

Ingredients

500g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced
2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground
1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for coating)
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Chopped green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken slices with soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. If using, add cornstarch and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Heat the Oil: In a large wok or frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp. Add minced garlic and stir for an additional minute.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.