This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a quick, tasty dish that brings a kick to your dinner table! Tender chicken pieces are coated in a zesty black pepper sauce, making every bite flavorful.
I love how simple this recipe is—just stir-fry and serve! It’s perfect over rice, and I often sneak extra pepper for a little spice. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either boneless thighs for juiciness or breasts for a leaner option. If you want a meatless option, firm tofu works great instead and absorbs flavors well.
Sauces: Soy and oyster sauces are key for taste. If you’re avoiding shellfish, use a vegetarian oyster sauce or a bit more soy sauce mixed with a dash of sugar for sweetness.
Pepper Variety: Using a mix of bell peppers adds color and texture. If you can’t find all three colors, just use one or two. Any crunchy vegetable like snap peas or broccoli can also be added for variety.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives the best flavor. Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. If you need a milder option, white pepper works too!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Stir-Fried Chicken?
Stir-frying can seem tricky, but with a couple of tips, you’ll get it right! The aim is to cook quickly over high heat to keep the chicken tender.
- Make sure your pan or wok is hot before adding the oil. This helps prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you have too much chicken, it will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed.
- Keep the chicken moving in the pan. Stir consistently so it cooks evenly and gets a nice golden color.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chilies, sliced (optional for heat)
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Cooked steamed rice, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. So, in total, you should be able to enjoy your delicious black pepper chicken in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinating the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix everything well so the chicken is fully coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak in those tasty flavors!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry it for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sautéing Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced red chilies (if using) and sauté them until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Adding Vegetables:
Next, add the onion wedges and bell pepper chunks to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften but retain some crunch. This adds great texture to the dish!
5. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Now, sprinkle in the freshly ground black pepper and sugar, then toss everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
6. Final Cooking:
Let everything cook for another 2 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and thicken the sauce just a bit.
7. Serving:
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your flavorful black pepper chicken hot over steamed rice. Enjoy every bite!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a leaner option and work perfectly in this recipe. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?
If you prefer not to use oyster sauce, you can substitute it with additional soy sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little sugar for sweetness. Vegetarian oyster sauce is also a great alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! You can add more sliced red chilies or even some crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions while cooking! Enjoy your meal! 😊
