Black Pepper Chicken

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Introduction

If you love bold flavors, tender chicken, and a rich, peppery sauce, this Black Pepper Chicken is the perfect dish for you! Inspired by Chinese takeout favorites, this dish features juicy chicken stir-fried with crisp bell peppers and onions, all coated in a savory black pepper sauce.

Unlike deep-fried or overly oily versions, this healthy homemade stir-fry keeps things light yet incredibly flavorful. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. Serve it over steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this Black Pepper Chicken stir-fry recipe!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Black Pepper Sauce:

  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (for deeper color & richness)
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken sauce)

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

Optional Garnishes:

  • Sliced green onions
  • Sesame seeds

Directions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, combine chicken slices, soy sauce, cornstarch, white pepper, and sesame oil.
  2. Mix well and let marinate for 10-15 minutes while prepping the vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, and rice vinegar.
  2. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
  3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  1. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil.
  2. Toss in the onions, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, garlic, and ginger.
  3. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the veggies are slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
  2. Pour in the black pepper sauce and stir well to coat everything evenly.
  3. Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce.
  4. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is glossy and coats the chicken perfectly.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
  • Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Servings & Timing

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

Variations

1. Low-Carb Black Pepper Chicken

  • Swap regular soy sauce for coconut aminos.
  • Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of white rice.

2. Spicy Black Pepper Chicken

  • Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  • Stir in sliced red chilies while cooking.

3. Vegetarian Version

  • Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
  • Add extra veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.

4. Gluten-Free Option

  • Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free oyster sauce.

Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

  • Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:

  • Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
  • Microwave for 30-45 seconds, stirring halfway.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes! Chicken thighs will add more juiciness and flavor to the dish.

2. What’s the best black pepper to use?

Freshly ground black pepper gives the best bold, aromatic flavor.

3. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! Store the cooked chicken and sauce separately, then stir-fry everything fresh before serving.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli, carrots, baby corn, or mushrooms all work well.

5. How can I make this dish less salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust the seasoning to taste.

6. Can I freeze Black Pepper Chicken?

Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

7. Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick from the black pepper, but you can make it spicier with chili flakes or Szechuan peppercorns.

8. What’s the best way to serve this dish?

  • Over steamed jasmine rice
  • With brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option
  • With stir-fried noodles

9. What’s a good side dish for Black Pepper Chicken?

  • Garlic green beans
  • Egg drop soup
  • Steamed dumplings

10. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but for the best flavor, fresh stir-fried chicken works best.

Conclusion

This Black Pepper Chicken recipe is a must-try if you love quick, easy, and flavor-packed meals. It’s better than takeout, healthier, and can be customized to your liking! Whether you enjoy it spicy, low-carb, or with extra veggies, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Try it today and let us know how you like it! 🍽️🔥

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