This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a quick stir-fry that promises big flavor! With tender chicken pieces coated in a spicy and peppery sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
If you love a bit of a kick in your food, this dish won’t disappoint! I like to serve it over rice to soak up all that delicious sauce—yum! 🍚👌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Chicken Breast: This is the star of the dish. You can swap it for thighs if you prefer a juicier option. They have more flavor and might not dry out as easily when cooked.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil works well here. Olive oil is fine too, but it can alter the flavor slightly. I like to use sesame oil for a bit of extra flavor, especially if you enjoy a hint of nuttiness.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper packs the most flavor. If you want to experiment, try adding white pepper for a different, unique taste.
Soy Sauce: I recommend low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish less salty. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth, but it’s optional. Hoisin sauce can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a similar sweet and savory flavor.
Cornstarch: If you’re aiming for a thicker sauce, cornstarch is perfect. You can use arrowroot or potato starch as alternatives if you have dietary restrictions or corn allergies.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken just right is crucial. You want it golden brown on the outside and juicy inside. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. If too much chicken is in the pan, it can steam instead of brown.
- Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center – this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve a delicious result every time!
How to Make Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 500g boneless chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
- 1/4 cup water (if using cornstarch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for cooking, so you can have a delicious meal on your table in about 30-35 minutes. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up all the flavors.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
3. Add Aromatics:
Next, add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute until you can smell the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen.
4. Stir-Fry the Veggies:
Toss in the sliced onions, green bell pepper, and red chilies. Stir-fry everything for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables become slightly soft but still have a nice crunch.
5. Thicken the Sauce (If Using Cornstarch):
If you want a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry. Pour this into the pan and stir to combine. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
6. Final Touches:
Taste your chicken and adjust the seasoning with more salt or black pepper, if desired. Make sure it’s just the right flavor for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot Easy Black Pepper Chicken with steamed rice or noodles. It’s a tasty dish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier and more flavorful dish. Just dice them the same way as you would with chicken breasts and follow the recipe as is. You may need to cook them slightly longer, around 7-10 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.
What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No problem! You can either omit the oyster sauce or substitute it with an equal amount of hoisin sauce or even a splash of additional soy sauce for added flavor. It will slightly change the taste, but the dish will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you enjoy extra heat, consider adding more sliced red chilies or incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also use a hotter variety of chili peppers, such as jalapeños or serranos, depending on your spice tolerance!
