Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a bold, peppery sauce. Inspired by classic Chinese takeout flavors, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality Black Pepper Chicken right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Black Pepper Chicken recipe is one of my favorites because it’s incredibly easy to make while still delivering a rich and satisfying flavor. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and freshly ground black pepper creates a savory and slightly spicy sauce that coats each bite of chicken beautifully.

 Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize the vegetables or adjust the spice level to your preference. Whether you’re serving it over rice or enjoying it on its own, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!

Prep Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Gather These Ingredients and Their Impact on Flavor

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this dish as delicious as possible. Here’s what you’ll need and how each one enhances the recipe:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces) – Tender and lean, chicken breast absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds umami richness and a hint of saltiness to the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps create a slightly crispy coating when stir-fried.
• 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or sesame oil) – Enhances flavor and ensures even cooking.

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Forms the base of the sauce with its deep, savory flavor.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and complexity.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Balances the richness with a subtle tanginess.
• 1 tablespoon water – Helps thin out the sauce for even coating.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – The star ingredient! Provides a warm, spicy kick that elevates the dish.
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar or honey – Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water) – Thickens the sauce for a glossy finish.

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 tablespoon oil – Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
• 1 small onion (sliced) – Adds sweetness and texture.
• 1 bell pepper (sliced, any color) – Brings vibrant color and a subtle crunch.
• 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish) – Enhances freshness and adds a mild onion flavor.

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss well to coat and let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, water, black pepper, brown sugar (or honey), and cornstarch slurry. Stir well and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Sauté the garlic, onion, and bell pepper for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and serve immediately. Enjoy over steamed rice, noodles, or on its own!

Tips and Substitutions

• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Use chicken thighs: For juicier results, swap chicken breast with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
• Low-sodium option: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content.
• Vegetable variations: Try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas for extra nutrition.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Pan – Cook the chicken in batches to ensure a crispy sear.
2. Not Using Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Pre-ground pepper lacks the bold punch of freshly cracked black pepper.
3. Skipping the Marinade – Even a 10-minute marinade helps the chicken absorb flavors.
4. Overcooking the Vegetables – Keep them slightly crisp for the best texture.
5. Not Adjusting the Sauce Consistency – If too thick, add a splash of broth; if too thin, let it simmer longer.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.
• Pair with stir-fried noodles for a complete takeout-style dinner.
• Enjoy alongside a fresh cucumber salad or steamed bok choy for added crunch and freshness.

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may overcook the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Black Pepper Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and cook fresh when ready.

2. What type of black pepper should I use?

Freshly ground black pepper is best, as it has a stronger, more aromatic flavor than pre-ground pepper.

3. Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, beef, or tofu.

4. How do I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of black pepper and add a little extra honey or brown sugar to balance the flavors.

5. Is this dish healthy?

Yes! It’s high in protein and can be made even healthier by using less oil and adding more vegetables.

 A Must-Try Dish!

Black Pepper Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen. With its bold black pepper flavor, savory sauce, and tender chicken, this dish is a fantastic option for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Try it out and enjoy the rich flavors of this Chinese-inspired favorite!