Spicy and Savory: Dive Into Alabama’s Signature Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

In the deep south, Alabama's rich culinary tradition is known for its bold, flavorful dishes. One standout meal that perfectly captures this southern spice and simplicity is Black Pepper Chicken. This dish brings together the warmth of southern hospitality and the heat of freshly cracked black pepper, creating a symphony of flavors that transports you right to Alabama’s heart.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

Alabama is a state deeply rooted in its love for food that’s simple yet packed with flavor. The Black Pepper Chicken is no exception—it’s a dish that showcases how a few humble ingredients can create a mouthwatering experience. Imagine tender chicken bites infused with the spicy kick of black pepper, paired with a savory glaze that has just the right balance of salt and sweetness. It’s a perfect blend that makes your taste buds tingle, while still giving you that warm comfort of home-cooked southern food.

The Story of Black Pepper Chicken in Alabama Alabama's Black Pepper Chicken isn't just any chicken dish; it’s an ode to the state’s love for creating meals that satisfy the soul. With roots in the combination of southern and Asian-inspired flavors, this dish adds a twist to traditional southern chicken recipes. While fried chicken might be a staple in Alabama, Black Pepper Chicken takes a different path by using grilled or pan-seared chicken and coating it in a black pepper-infused sauce, creating a unique depth of flavor that makes every bite irresistible.

Recipe: Alabama-Style Black Pepper Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced thin
• 1 bell pepper, sliced thin (optional for extra crunch)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• Fresh green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey or brown sugar, and cornstarch. Add the chicken pieces and toss them in the sauce, letting them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are spread out to cook evenly. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions, bell peppers (if using), and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft.
4. Add the chicken back to the skillet and sprinkle in the freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken with the black pepper and mix in the vegetables.
5. Pour in the chicken broth or water to deglaze the pan, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken as it simmers for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed and garnish with fresh green onions.
7. Serve this flavorful black pepper chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy the bold, spicy flavors of Alabama!

The Southern Spirit in Every Bite Alabama’s Black Pepper Chicken offers a taste of the state’s unique ability to blend flavors from different culinary traditions, transforming them into something distinctly southern. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to wow guests at your next gathering, this dish never disappoints. The peppery kick, combined with the tenderness of the chicken and the sweetness of the glaze, makes for a meal that captures the essence of southern comfort food with a twist.

Black Pepper Chicken brings a touch of Alabama’s warmth to your table. It’s a dish that, like many southern favorites, is all about gathering with loved ones, sharing good food, and celebrating life’s simple pleasures.

Sources:

One Pot Black Pepper Chicken (Better Than Takeout!) | Modernmealmakeover.com

Black Pepper Chicken - Insanely Good (insanelygoodrecipes.com)