Imagine a dish that wraps you in a warm hug of savory, spicy, and aromatic flavors. That’s exactly what Black Pepper Chicken offers. With tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich sauce infused with freshly ground black pepper, this recipe is a sensory delight. The sweetness of onions and bell peppers balances the sharpness of the pepper, while soy and oyster sauces provide a deep umami punch.
This dish is a crowd-pleaser and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner for the family or impressing guests at a dinner party, Black Pepper Chicken is always a winner. It’s easy to prepare, with simple ingredients and minimal cooking time. Pair it with fluffy white rice or noodles, and you’ve got a complete, comforting meal that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
What You’ll Need
To make this delicious Black Pepper Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs – cut into bite-sized pieces for perfect tenderness.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – adds a salty, savory base to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – deepens the umami flavors.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – ensures a silky, thick sauce and tender chicken.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- 1 small onion, sliced – brings sweetness and texture.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced – adds vibrant color and crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – the star ingredient that packs a spicy punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar – balances the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth – creates a luscious, flavorful sauce.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar – adds a slight tang for balance.
- 2 green onions, chopped – for a fresh, herby finish.
- Cooked white rice – to serve the dish in its full glory.
Substitutions and Additions
One of the best parts of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few creative swaps and add-ons to make it your own:
- Swap the chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Add mushrooms or snap peas for extra veggies and texture.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
- Incorporate a touch of chili flakes or sriracha for those who enjoy extra heat.
- Throw in cashews or peanuts for a delightful crunch.
With these substitutions and additions, you can tailor the recipe to fit your dietary needs or personal preferences while keeping its bold flavors intact.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Get ready to create a dish that’s bursting with bold, peppery flavors! Follow these easy steps to prepare Black Pepper Chicken, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal in no time.
Preparation
1. Prepping the Chicken
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cutting them into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated. The marinade not only adds depth of flavor but also ensures a glossy, thick sauce when cooked.
Pro Tip: Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes to maximize flavor absorption. If you have extra time, marinate it for up to 30 minutes for an even richer taste.
2. Setting Up Your Tools
Prepare your workspace with all ingredients and tools within arm’s reach. Use a wok or a large skillet for the best results, as these provide plenty of room to stir-fry everything evenly. Heat control is key, so ensure your stove is set to medium-high heat for quick, consistent cooking.
Cooking the Chicken
1. Sauté the Marinated Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the marinated chicken. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, making sure to flip the pieces occasionally to achieve a golden-brown crust.
The chicken should cook through but remain juicy. Remove it from the pan and set aside on a plate, leaving any remaining oil or juices in the pan for the next step.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear. If needed, cook in batches for the best texture.
Sautéing the Vegetables
1. Bring on the Aromatics
Add another 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the same pan. Toss in 1 sliced onion, 1 sliced bell pepper, and 2 minced garlic cloves. The sizzling sound will immediately fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Stir-fry the vegetables for about 2 minutes, just until they start to soften but still retain a bit of their crunch.
Pro Tip: For even cooking, slice the onions and bell peppers into uniform strips. This ensures they cook at the same rate, giving you the perfect balance of texture.
Combining Flavors
1. Reintroduce the Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, and mix it with the sautéed vegetables.
2. Create the Sauce
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper evenly over the dish. Add 1/2 teaspoon sugar and pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth. Stir everything together, allowing the black pepper to infuse its bold, spicy flavor into the sauce.
Simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and beautifully coats the chicken and vegetables.
3. Add a Splash of Tang
Right before removing the pan from the heat, stir in 1 teaspoon rice vinegar. This subtle tangy note balances the richness of the sauce, making it irresistible.
Pro Tip: If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to loosen it. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer for an additional minute or two to reduce.
Finishing Touches
1. Garnish for Freshness
As a final step, sprinkle 2 chopped green onions over the dish and give everything a good toss. This adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color to the dish.
2. Serve and Savor
Your Black Pepper Chicken is ready to be served hot. Pair it with a generous helping of steamed white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce, or serve it over noodles for an equally satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
Occasions and Pairings
Black Pepper Chicken is a versatile dish that fits any occasion. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners when you’re short on time but crave bold, satisfying flavors. Its rich taste and elegant presentation also make it a star at family gatherings or potlucks, where it’s bound to impress everyone.
Pair this dish with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the peppery, savory sauce, creating the ultimate comforting meal. For something different, serve it alongside fried rice for added flavor or toss it over stir-fried noodles to transform it into a noodle-based delight. Whatever your choice, the combination of textures and flavors will leave your taste buds dancing.
Presentation Ideas
Presentation is key to elevating any dish. Garnish your Black Pepper Chicken with freshly chopped green onions or a sprinkle of extra black pepper to enhance its vibrant look. For a touch of elegance, add fresh cilantro leaves or a wedge of lime on the side. Serve in a wide bowl or on a rustic platter to let the colorful vegetables and glossy sauce shine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with Black Pepper Chicken:
- Its bold, aromatic black pepper flavor takes center stage, creating a perfect harmony of spice and warmth.
- The recipe is quick and beginner-friendly, making it accessible even for those new to cooking.
- Its versatility means you can pair it with your favorite sides or tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a flavorful experience that’s as satisfying to cook as it is to eat.
Recipe FAQ
Cooking Tips
1. How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?
Cook the chicken over medium-high heat, turning it frequently for even browning. Removing it from the pan as soon as it’s golden brown keeps it juicy and tender.
2. How can I adjust the spice level?
If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of black pepper to 1/2 teaspoon. For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or drizzle some sriracha into the sauce.
Troubleshooting
1. My sauce is too watery. What should I do?
If the sauce isn’t thickening, let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, then stir it into the sauce for an instant thickening effect.
2. The dish is too salty. How can I fix it?
Balance the flavors by adding a splash of water, chicken broth, or rice vinegar to dilute the saltiness. You can also toss in more vegetables to even things out.
Ingredient Questions
1. Can I use pre-ground black pepper instead of freshly ground?
Yes, but freshly ground black pepper offers a much more robust and aromatic flavor. If using pre-ground pepper, reduce the quantity slightly as it can taste more intense.
2. What’s a good substitute for oyster sauce?
You can replace oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a little honey for a similar sweet and savory profile.
Storage and Reheating
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place the dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To save time, you can marinate the chicken and prep the vegetables a day in advance. Keep them in separate containers in the fridge, ready to cook when needed.
Reheating and Serving
Reheat the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the sauce’s texture. Stir gently to ensure even heating. If using a microwave, cover the dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to prevent overcooking.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Black Pepper Chicken recipe, you might enjoy these flavorful dishes from Creative Cookery:
- Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe: A crispy, juicy twist on classic chicken.
- Air Fry Shake and Bake Chicken: Quick and crispy with no mess.
- Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe: Creamy, cheesy, and indulgent.
Conclusion
Black Pepper Chicken is a recipe that combines simplicity with bold flavors to create a dish that’s truly unforgettable. Its quick preparation time and versatility make it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Whether you’re serving it over rice or noodles, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Black Pepper Chicken recipe delivers tender chicken pieces in a bold, peppery sauce, combined with crunchy vegetables and a savory, tangy kick. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Mix chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Marinate for 15 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet. Sauté chicken for 4-5 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Cook onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 2 minutes.
- Combine and Flavor: Add chicken back to the pan. Stir in black pepper, sugar, chicken broth, and rice vinegar. Simmer until sauce thickens.
- Finish and Serve: Toss in green onions. Serve hot over rice.
Notes
- Adjust black pepper for spice preference.
- Add more veggies, such as mushrooms or snap peas, for extra variety.
- Tamari can replace soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
Keywords: Black Pepper Chicken, Pepper Chicken Recipe, Easy Chicken Dinner, Stir-Fried Chicken Recipe
