Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful stir-fry made with tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory black pepper sauce. This dish is quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner that packs a punch of bold flavors. The combination of freshly cracked black pepper, soy sauce, and aromatics makes this dish irresistibly tasty.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, and soy sauce. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Add the chopped onion, sliced bell pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and chicken broth. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the vegetables and bring to a simmer.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Add the freshly cracked black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and everything is well coated.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Black Pepper Chicken warm over a bed of steamed rice. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cook Notes
- Chicken Choice: You can use chicken thighs instead of breast for a juicier result.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper is key to this recipe. It adds a more intense flavor compared to pre-ground black pepper.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or broccoli to the stir-fry for added texture and nutrition.
Variations
1. Spicy Black Pepper Chicken
Increase the red pepper flakes or add 1 diced jalapeño to the stir-fry for extra heat.
2. Black Pepper Tofu
Replace the chicken with firm tofu, cut into cubes, for a vegetarian version. Sauté the tofu until golden before adding it to the sauce.
3. Black Pepper Beef
Substitute the chicken with thinly sliced beef for a different protein option. Cook the beef quickly over high heat to maintain tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
- Steamed Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a classic pairing.
- Noodles: Toss with stir-fried noodles for a satisfying variation.
- Vegetable Side: Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or bok choy for added greens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce ingredients ahead of time. Cook just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
Yes, simply omit the red pepper flakes and reduce the amount of black pepper if you prefer a milder flavor.
Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for any weeknight meal. With its bold black pepper flavor, tender chicken, and savory sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Try it out, and enjoy the satisfying heat and taste of this easy-to-make classic!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
