Craving a dish that lights up your dinner routine with bold spices and vibrant veggies? Black Pepper Chicken has got you covered. This sizzling stir-fry brings together tender chicken pieces coated in a glossy sauce, infused with the punch of freshly ground black pepper, the savory depth of oyster sauce, and just a touch of sweetness to balance every bite. The succulent chicken jostles alongside crisp-tender onions and bell peppers, releasing joyful sizzles as they meet the hot skillet. Each forkful carries a harmony of flavors: the earthy warmth of black pepper, the subtle umami from soy and oyster sauces, and the gentle pop of green onions on top. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch that feels special, this recipe promises a mouthwatering journey through Asian-inspired tastes without overwhelming your schedule.
Beyond the irresistible taste, this beginner-friendly recipe comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you need something fast and satisfying. With just a handful of pantry staples—like soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil—you’ll create a restaurant-worthy meal right at home. The subtitle says it all: Savor the Bold Flavors of This Delicious Black Pepper Chicken Dish! And that’s exactly what you’ll be doing as you dig into a plate of glossy, saucy chicken over steaming white rice or noodles. At around 350 calories per serving, it strikes a delightful balance between hearty and light. Get ready to stir up some excitement in your kitchen and give your taste buds a treat they’ll be craving again and again!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BLACK PEPPER CHICKEN
Every ingredient in this Black Pepper Chicken plays a star role, from creating that silky sauce to delivering layers of texture and color. Here’s what you’ll need and why each element matters:
- Chicken breasts
Lean and tender, these bite-sized pieces soak up marinades beautifully and cook quickly for juicy, flavorful bites of protein.
- Soy sauce
This salty, savory liquid anchors the marinade and the final sauce, building a rich umami foundation.
- Cornstarch
Coating the chicken with cornstarch helps achieve a light, crisp exterior once stir-fried, locking in juices for a succulent interior.
- Vegetable oil
A neutral-flavored oil that heats to high temperatures without smoking, perfect for quick stir-frying and getting that satisfying sizzle.
- Onion
Sliced onion softens and caramelizes slightly in the pan, adding sweetness and depth to every forkful.
- Bell pepper
Whether green or red, these colorful strips bring crunch, freshness, and a pop of vibrant color to brighten up the dish.
- Garlic
Minced garlic lends an aromatic kick, harmonizing beautifully with the peppery notes.
- Freshly ground black pepper
The star spice—when freshly cracked, it releases essential oils that pack an intense, bold punch into the sauce.
- Oyster sauce
Adds a glossy sheen and a sweet-savory complexity that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- Soy sauce (additional)
A bit more soy sauce in the finishing sauce balances sweetness and helps thin the texture for perfect coating.
- Sugar
Just a touch of sugar heightens the savory components and rounds out the peppery heat.
- Sesame oil
Drizzled at the end, this aromatic oil imparts a toasty, nutty note and extra layer of fragrance.
- Green onions
Chopped and sprinkled on top, they provide freshness, color contrast, and a mild onion bite.
- Salt
Used sparingly to adjust seasoning, ensuring every flavor pops without over-salting.
HOW TO MAKE BLACK PEPPER CHICKEN
Before you dive into the step-by-step recipe, know that each part of this process is designed to build vibrant layers of flavor. You’ll start by marinating the chicken to infuse it, then use a hot skillet to create that signature crisp-tender texture and a glossy sauce that clings to every morsel. Keep your ingredients prepped and ready so the cooking moves swiftly—stir-fries come together in a flash!
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss vigorously to coat each piece, creating a thin starchy layer. Let the chicken marinate for 15–20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the coating to adhere.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, then stir-fry for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the exterior is lightly browned and the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken to a clean plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, drizzle in the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes, until the vegetables soften but still hold a bit of crispness.
4. Add the minced garlic and freshly ground black pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry together for another minute, until the kitchen fills with that signature, fragrant kick.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in oyster sauce, the additional tablespoon of soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Stir everything constantly for 2–3 minutes, ensuring every piece of chicken and vegetable is thoroughly coated and heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary. Turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BLACK PEPPER CHICKEN
Once your Black Pepper Chicken is ready, the fun part is pairing it with sides and garnishes that elevate the meal. With simple tweaks, you can transform this dish into a vibrant feast perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. The warmth of the sauce and the pop of color from the veggies make it an inviting centerpiece on any table.
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice to catch every drop of the peppery sauce and balance the heat with fluffy grains.
- Toss with rice noodles or chow mein for a noodle bowl experience—just heat noodles in the pan after cooking the sauce to let them absorb all that rich flavor.
- Plate alongside stir-fried greens like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy for added texture, brightness, and a nutritious boost.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to introduce a zesty finish and extra crunch.
HOW TO STORE BLACK PEPPER CHICKEN
Proper storage ensures you keep all those bold flavors intact for later meals. Whether you’re portioning for meal prep or stashing leftovers, following these guidelines will maintain the saucy texture and fresh-tasting veggies. Always let the dish cool slightly before storing to prevent soggy ingredients and condensation buildup.
- Refrigeration: Transfer the cooled chicken and veggies into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to restore crispness.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Use a nonstick skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for extended periods to preserve texture.
- Meal-prep packs: Divide into balanced containers with steamed rice or noodles, seal tightly, and refrigerate. Grab a pack for an easy grab-and-go lunch or quick dinner, reheating as needed.
CONCLUSION
Congratulations—you’ve just mastered a deliciously bold Black Pepper Chicken that’s both beginner-friendly and strikingly flavorful! From the simple marinade and quick stir-fry technique to thoughtful serving suggestions and storage tips, this article has equipped you with everything you need for success. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for friends, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami in under 40 minutes. Feel free to print out these steps or save this article for future reference, and don’t forget: there’s a handy FAQ section below to answer any lingering questions you might have about ingredients, substitutions, or variations.
If you give this easy chicken recipe a try—or if you have tips of your own—let me know how it went! Share your favorite side pairings, ask any questions, or drop feedback on ways you’ve made it uniquely yours. Your comments and questions help everyone in our cooking community, and I can’t wait to hear about your kitchen adventures with this saucy, zesty Black Pepper Chicken. Enjoy every vibrant, peppery bite!
Black Pepper Chicken
Description
Experience the enticing aroma and delectable taste of saucy black pepper chicken, perfectly stir-fried with colorful veggies and a zesty kick that will leave you craving more!
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine chicken pieces, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and cornstarch. Toss together until chicken is well coated. Set aside to marinate for 15-20 minutes.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and stir-fry until they are browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Stir-fry until the vegetables begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the minced garlic and freshly ground black pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
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Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the oyster sauce, additional tablespoon of soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
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Adjust seasoning with salt if necessary. Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the dish before serving.
Note
- Use freshly ground black pepper for the boldest flavor.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if desired.
- For added spice, include sliced chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Serve with steamed white rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- This dish pairs well with a variety of vegetables; feel free to add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots.
