1 serving (142 g) Black Pepper Chicken packs in 170 calories, making it a great choice for those who want a hearty and flavorful meal without the guilt. This dish is perfect for those who love spicy and savory flavors.
Aside from its taste, Black Pepper Chicken also has a decent nutritional value. The dish is rich in protein, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. It is also low in carbohydrates and fat, making it a great option for those who are watching their calorie intake.
In this article, we'll explore everything there is to know about Black Pepper Chicken, from its ingredients to its health benefits, as well as some other tips and tricks for making the most out of this tasty dish.
What is Black Pepper Chicken?
Black Pepper Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that features pan-fried chicken pieces coated in a delicious black pepper sauce. The dish is known for its bold and spicy flavor, which is achieved by using copious amounts of black pepper in the sauce. While the dish is a staple in many Chinese-American restaurants, it is easy to make at home as well. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering and healthy version of this classic dish. If you're a fan of spicy and savory flavors, Black Pepper Chicken is definitely worth a try.
Nutritional Value of Black Pepper Chicken
Black Pepper Chicken is packed with nutrients that are essential for your health. The dish is rich in protein, which is needed to build strong muscles and tissues. It is also a good source of vitamin B6, which helps your body convert food into energy. Additionally, Black Pepper Chicken is rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage. The dish is also low in carbohydrates and fat, making it a great choice for those who are watching their calorie intake. However, it's important to note that the nutritional value of Black Pepper Chicken may vary depending on the ingredients used and the way it is prepared.
Ingredients Used in Black Pepper Chicken
To make Black Pepper Chicken, you will need chicken breasts, soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, black pepper, green onions, and sesame oil. These ingredients can easily be found in most grocery stores or Asian markets. If you want to make the dish spicier, you can add some chili flakes or Szechuan peppercorns to the sauce. You can also add some vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots to make the dish even more nutritious. Overall, the ingredients used in Black Pepper Chicken are simple and easy to find, making it a great dish to make at home.
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken
To make Black Pepper Chicken, first marinate the chicken in soy sauce and cornstarch for 20-30 minutes. Then, heat some oil in a pan and cook the chicken until it is browned on both sides. Next, add garlic, ginger, black pepper, and green onions to the pan and cook for a few minutes until fragrant. Then, add oyster sauce and water to the pan and let it simmer until the sauce thickens. Finally, garnish the dish with some sesame oil and green onions before serving. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and healthy version of Black Pepper Chicken at home.
Health Benefits of Black Pepper Chicken
Aside from its delicious taste, Black Pepper Chicken also has several health benefits. The dish is rich in protein, which is essential for building and repairing your muscles and tissues. Additionally, the black pepper used in the sauce has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect your cells from damage and reduce inflammation in your body. Lastly, the dish is low in carbohydrates and fat, making it a great option for those who are trying to lose weight or manage their blood sugar levels.
Difference Between Black Pepper Chicken and Szechuan Chicken
While Black Pepper Chicken and Szechuan Chicken may sound similar, they are actually two different dishes with distinct flavors. Black Pepper Chicken is known for its bold and spicy flavor, while Szechuan Chicken is known for its numbing and spicy flavor. In terms of ingredients, Szechuan Chicken typically uses Szechuan peppercorns, which give the dish its unique numbing flavor. Black Pepper Chicken, on the other hand, uses copious amounts of black pepper to enhance its flavor. Overall, both dishes are popular Chinese-American dishes that pack a punch in terms of taste and spice.
Tips for Making Delicious Black Pepper Chicken
To make the most out of your Black Pepper Chicken, here are some tips and tricks you can follow. First, make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 20-30 minutes to ensure that it is tender and flavorful. Second, use freshly ground black pepper for maximum flavor. You can also use a combination of black and white pepper for a milder flavor. Lastly, don't hesitate to add some vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli to make the dish even more nutritious and colorful.
Variations of Black Pepper Chicken
While Black Pepper Chicken is delicious on its own, there are several variations of the dish that you can try at home. For example, you can add some honey to the sauce to make it sweeter, or add some curry powder for a more Indian twist. You can also use different proteins such as tofu or shrimp instead of chicken to make the dish vegetarian or pescatarian-friendly. Overall, the possibilities are endless when it comes to making Black Pepper Chicken.
Serving Suggestions for Black Pepper Chicken
Black Pepper Chicken can be served with a variety of sides, such as steamed rice, noodles, or vegetables. For a more complete meal, you can also serve it with some egg rolls or potstickers. If you want to impress your guests, you can also garnish the dish with some sesame seeds or chopped cilantro. Overall, Black Pepper Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
Frequently Asked Questions about Black Pepper Chicken
Q: Is Black Pepper Chicken spicy? A: Yes, Black Pepper Chicken is known for its spicy and savory flavor. Q: How many calories are in Black Pepper Chicken? A: One serving (142 g) of Black Pepper Chicken contains around 170 calories. Q: Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free? A: Yes, you can replace the soy sauce and oyster sauce with gluten-free alternatives such as tamari or coconut aminos to make the dish gluten-free.
Black Pepper Chicken is a dish that packs a punch in terms of taste and spice. Whether you're a fan of Chinese-American cuisine or just looking for a flavorful and healthy meal, this dish is definitely worth a try.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Black Pepper Chicken
1. What is Black Pepper Chicken?
Black Pepper Chicken is a dish that originates from Chinese cuisine. It is typically made by cooking chicken pieces in a savory sauce that contains soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and of course, black pepper. The dish is stir-fried and can be served with rice or noodles.
2. Is Black Pepper Chicken spicy?
It can be, depending on how much black pepper is used. However, it is not typically considered to be a very spicy dish. The black pepper adds a subtle heat to the dish, which is balanced out by the other ingredients in the sauce.
3. Is Black Pepper Chicken healthy?
Black Pepper Chicken can be a healthy option, depending on how it is prepared. It is a good source of protein, and the sauce can be made with low-sodium soy sauce and minimal added sugars to keep the dish low in calories and fat.
4. How many calories are in a serving of Black Pepper Chicken?
A serving of Black Pepper Chicken (142 g) contains 170 calories, which makes it a relatively low-calorie dish compared to many other Chinese takeout options.
5. Can Black Pepper Chicken be made vegetarian?
Yes, Black Pepper Chicken can be made vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or another meat-alternative. The sauce can still be made the same way, so the dish will still have the same flavor profile.