Why the Black Bean Chicken Is a Great Chicken Dish
When I think about why black bean chicken is such a fantastic dish, the combination of flavors immediately comes to mind. The savory richness of the black bean sauce perfectly complements tender chicken, creating a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
I love how the slight crunch of the vegetables adds texture, while the hint of garlic and sesame elevates the entire experience. Plus, it’s versatile! You can tweak it with your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning.
Every bite feels like a delightful dance of taste, making it a go-to dinner option that never disappoints.
Ingredients of Black Bean Chicken
When it comes to cooking up a storm in the kitchen, the ingredients for Black Bean Chicken are what truly make this dish shine. There’s something special about gathering each component, knowing they’ll come together to create a delicious meal. From the rich black bean sauce to the tender chicken, each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor.
Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish.
Ingredients for Black Bean Chicken:
- 1/4 cup black bean sauce or 1/3 cup Chinese fermented black beans
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil
- A couple of splashes of toasted sesame oil
- 2 cups chopped yellow onions
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced (or more if you’re feeling adventurous)
- 2/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar, to taste
- 4 cups small broccoli florets or 3 cups shelled edamame soybeans
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into 1/4-inch strips
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry (not the cooking kind)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
Now, here’s a little nugget of wisdom: when it comes to the black bean sauce, you can either go for the jarred stuff or the fermented beans. If you choose the fermented beans, give them a soak first; it’s like giving them a spa day before they hit the pan.
And don’t skimp on the garlic; it’s the magical ingredient that makes everything better. Also, when you’re picking out your chicken, aim for the boneless, skinless variety to keep things simple and streamlined. Trust me, nobody wants to wrestle with bones when they’re just trying to enjoy a good meal.
And let’s not forget about the veggies—feel free to swap in your favorites if broccoli or edamame isn’t your jam. Cooking is all about personal taste, right?
How to Make Black Bean Chicken
Alright, let’s explore the delicious world of Black Bean Chicken! First things first, grab your 1/4 cup of black bean sauce or, if you’re feeling adventurous, go for 1/3 cup of those fermented black beans. If you opt for the fermented beans, remember they need a little pampering first. Soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes—it’s like sending them to a spa day before they join the party in your pan.
Once they’re all soaked and rinsed, it’s time to chop up your 2 cups of yellow onions and mince those 2-3 garlic cloves. You can never have too much garlic, right? If you’re like me, you’ll probably end up tossing in a bit more just because.
Now, heat up 2 tablespoons of peanut oil and a splash or two of toasted sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in your onions and garlic, and sauté them for about 30 seconds. You want to awaken those aromas and get your kitchen smelling amazing.
Next, add in your black bean sauce or fermented beans and give it a quick stir for about 10 seconds, just to mix things up. Then, pour in 2/3 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and 1/3 cup of low-sodium soy sauce. Add in that 1/2 teaspoon of sugar to balance out the flavors—sweet and savory, you know? Bring everything to a boil, and then toss in either 4 cups of small broccoli florets or 3 cups of shelled edamame.
Now, here comes the star of the show: the chicken. Slice that 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast into 1/4-inch strips and add them to the skillet. Bring the whole mixture back to a boil, then cover it and reduce the heat to medium. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. You want it tender and juicy, not rubbery, trust me.
While that’s simmering, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of dry sherry in a small bowl, then gradually stir it into the pan. This will thicken the sauce just right. After about a minute, add in 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame seeds and 1/4 cup of chopped green onions, stirring until those green onions are just heated through.
Season it with fresh ground black pepper and a pinch of salt, though be careful with the salt since you already have the soy sauce in there. Serve it over rice or some Asian noodles, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. You did it; you made Black Bean Chicken!
Black Bean Chicken Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic Black Bean Chicken recipe, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
You can also use other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas in place of broccoli or edamame. For added heat, toss in some red pepper flakes.
If you want a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of coconut milk. Feel free to experiment until you find your perfect version!
What to Serve with Black Bean Chicken
To elevate your Black Bean Chicken experience, consider pairing it with a variety of sides that complement its rich flavors.
I love serving it with jasmine rice, as the fluffy grains soak up the delicious sauce beautifully. You might also try steamed edamame for a protein boost and a pop of color on the plate.
A crisp cucumber salad adds a revitalizing crunch that balances the savory chicken. If you’re feeling adventurous, some stir-fried bok choy with garlic can bring an extra layer of flavor.
These sides not only enhance the dish but also create a satisfying meal overall. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
If you’re looking to enhance your Black Bean Chicken dish, consider a few additional tips that can elevate the flavors and presentation.
First, try using fresh ginger alongside the garlic for a zesty kick. You can also add bell peppers for extra color and sweetness.
If you want a spicy twist, toss in some chili flakes or a dash of Sriracha. For a beautiful finish, garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds.
Remember, serving it over jasmine rice or noodles makes it even more delightful.
Finally, don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings to suit your taste—it’s your dish after all!