Black Pepper Chicken is a beloved dish known for its bold, spicy flavors and tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich, peppery sauce. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or looking to impress guests with a flavorful stir-fry, this recipe is easy to make and packed with restaurant-quality taste.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make the best Black Pepper Chicken, from choosing the right ingredients to perfecting the sauce. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes!
Packed with Flavor – A perfect balance of heat, umami, and a touch of sweetness.
Healthier Than Takeout – No MSG or excess oil, just fresh ingredients.
Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or make it vegetarian!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the best Black Pepper Chicken, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

For the Chicken:

1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thigh – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
1 tbsp soy sauce – For flavor and slight tenderness.
1 tbsp cornstarch – Helps crisp up the chicken when cooking.
1 tbsp oil – For stir-frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works best).

For the Sauce:

1 tbsp black pepper (freshly ground) – The star ingredient!
2 tbsp soy sauce – Adds depth and umami flavor.
1 tbsp oyster sauce – For a hint of sweetness and richness.
1 tbsp dark soy sauce (optional) – Enhances color and flavor.
1 tbsp rice vinegar – Balances out the richness.
1 tsp sugar – Slightly mellows out the peppery heat.
½ cup chicken broth – Creates a saucy consistency.
1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water – To thicken the sauce.

For the Stir-Fry:

1 small onion – Sliced thinly for texture.
½ bell pepper (red or green) – Cut into thin strips.
2-3 cloves garlic – Minced for added depth.
1-inch piece of ginger – Grated or minced.
2-3 green onions – Chopped for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes. This helps tenderize the chicken and creates a light, crispy texture when cooked.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), black pepper, rice vinegar, sugar, and chicken broth. Stir well and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil.
Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Veggies

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in garlic, ginger, onions, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until fragrant but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce.
Mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry, then pour it into the pan to thicken the sauce. Stir well.
Let everything cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the chicken is well coated in the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Turn off the heat, sprinkle chopped green onions on top, and serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken

Use freshly ground black pepper – It gives a stronger, more aromatic flavor than pre-ground pepper.
For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or sliced red chilies.
Dark soy sauce adds a rich color, but you can skip it if unavailable.
Swap the chicken for tofu, shrimp, or beef for variations.
Don’t overcook the veggies – Keep them slightly crisp for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Steamed Jasmine Rice – A classic pairing.
Fried Rice – Adds extra flavor to your meal.
Garlic Noodles – A perfect side dish.
Lettuce Wraps – A low-carb, fresh option.

FAQs

1. Can I use white pepper instead of black pepper?

Yes, but white pepper has a milder, slightly fermented taste. If you prefer a more intense, spicier kick, stick with black pepper.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

4. What’s the best chicken cut to use?

Both chicken breast and thighs work well. Thighs are juicier, while breast meat is leaner.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the sauce and marinate the chicken in advance. Just cook everything fresh for the best taste.

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken is a simple, delicious, and satisfying dish that you can make at home in under 30 minutes. With its bold flavors, easy prep, and customizable options, it’s a perfect meal for any night of the week.

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out! What’s your favorite way to enjoy Black Pepper Chicken? Drop a comment below! 🍛🔥

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