Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering Chinese dish that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Beijing! Willow Chicken in Black Bean Sauce is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that combines tender chicken, rich black beans, and aromatic spices in a quick and easy recipe that will make you feel like a professional chef. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply craving an authentic Asian-inspired meal, this recipe is about to become your new kitchen obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping. Slice chicken breast into thin, uniform strips and set aside.
- Rinse black beans thoroughly under cold water and drain completely. Slice bell pepper into thin strips and mince garlic finely.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to become hot but not smoking.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil, stirring quickly to prevent burning. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add sliced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken turns white and begins to brown slightly.
- Introduce sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until peppers become slightly tender but retain some crispness.
- Add rinsed black beans to the chicken and peppers. Pour soy sauce over the mixture, stirring to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and let the ingredients simmer together for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or soy sauce as needed.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Plate over steamed rice or noodles if desired.
Tips
- Slice Uniformly: Ensure your chicken and bell peppers are cut into even, thin strips for consistent cooking and an attractive presentation.
- High Heat is Key: Use a hot skillet or wok to achieve that perfect slight char and seal in the chicken's moisture.
- Don't Overcook Vegetables: Keep your bell peppers crisp by stir-frying them briefly to maintain their vibrant color and texture.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use freshly grated ginger and freshly minced garlic for the most robust flavor profile.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust soy sauce, salt, and pepper to suit your personal preference.
- Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together perfectly.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or egg noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
