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Black Pepper Chicken – Easy, Flavor-Packed Chinese Stir-Fry

Name: Black Pepper Chicken – Easy, Flavor-Packed Chinese Stir-Fry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons cornstarch (helps with crispiness); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 small onion, sliced; ½ cup bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat); 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish); ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; ½ cup chicken broth (or water); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)

March 13, 2025
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By : Chef Billy

Black Pepper Chicken – A Flavor-Packed Stir-Fry Recipe

If you are looking for a quick, flavorful stir-fry that delivers a bold punch of black pepper and savory goodness, this Black Pepper Chicken is a must-try. This dish features tender pieces of chicken coated in a rich, slightly spicy black pepper sauce, perfectly balanced with crisp bell peppers and onions. It is inspired by popular Chinese takeout flavors, but this homemade version is healthier, fresher, and comes together in just thirty minutes.

A combination of freshly ground black pepper, soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness makes this dish incredibly satisfying. The sauce clings to each bite of chicken, creating a perfect harmony of spice, umami, and mild heat. Whether served over rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own, this dish is guaranteed to become a go-to weeknight dinner option.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – A perfect thirty-minute meal that requires minimal prep.
Bold, Peppery Flavor – The black pepper shines in every bite, offering just the right level of heat.
Better Than Takeout – Fresher, healthier, and more budget-friendly.
Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap vegetables, or try different proteins.
Meal Prep Friendly – Stays fresh for days and reheats beautifully.
One-Pan Dish – Minimal cleanup and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken

For the Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons cornstarch (helps with crispiness)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Stir-Fry:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small onion, sliced
½ cup bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)

For the Black Pepper Sauce:

¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
½ cup chicken broth (or water)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Step 1: Marinate and Coat the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with soy sauce and cornstarch. This helps create a light, crispy coating and prevents the chicken from drying out while cooking.
Let the chicken sit for ten to fifteen minutes while preparing the sauce and vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Black Pepper Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chicken broth, and sesame oil.
In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce once added to the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for four to five minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of oil.
Add the sliced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic.
Stir-fry for two to three minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything and Simmer

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Pour in the black pepper sauce and stir to coat everything evenly.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let the sauce thicken for one to two minutes, ensuring it coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with chopped green onions for added freshness.
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken

Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Freshly cracked pepper enhances the bold, fragrant spice profile.
Do Not Overcrowd the Pan – Cook the chicken in batches to allow it to brown properly.
Adjust the Spice Level – Increase or decrease the amount of black pepper and red pepper flakes according to preference.
Choose Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness – While chicken breasts work well, thighs remain tender and flavorful after cooking.
Experiment with Additional Vegetables – Try adding snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or baby corn for more variety and nutrition.

What to Serve with Black Pepper Chicken

Steamed White or Brown Rice – The perfect neutral base to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Garlic Noodles – A delicious side that complements the bold black pepper sauce.
Fried Rice – A great way to add extra flavor and texture to your meal.
Stir-Fried Vegetables – Bok choy, broccoli, or green beans make excellent pairings.
Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls – A crispy, satisfying side to complete your meal.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to two months. Allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, Black Pepper Chicken is great for meal prep. Store it in portions for easy reheating throughout the week.

Is this dish spicy?

The black pepper adds a mild kick, but you can increase or decrease the spice level by adjusting the red pepper flakes.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely. This dish works well with shrimp, beef, tofu, or even pork.

What if I do not have oyster sauce?

You can substitute it with extra soy sauce and a dash of Worcestershire sauce to achieve a similar umami flavor.

How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?

Using cornstarch in the marinade helps keep the chicken juicy, and cooking it over medium-high heat for a short time prevents overcooking.

Final Thoughts

This Black Pepper Chicken is an easy, flavor-packed stir-fry that delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your kitchen. With a well-balanced black pepper sauce, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and versatile.

Skip the takeout and enjoy this homemade version that is fresher, healthier, and just as delicious. Whether serving it for a quick weeknight meal or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Give it a try and experience the bold flavors of Black Pepper Chicken today.

Black Pepper Chicken – Easy, Flavor-Packed Chinese Stir-Fry

Author: Chef Billy
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 1x

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