Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

There's something irresistibly satisfying about a plate of Black Pepper Chicken. The aroma of seared chicken coated in a glossy, peppery sauce is enough to make your mouth water before the first bite. With its balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors, this dish is a showstopper that comes together in under 30 minutes.

this Recipe

The first time I made Black Pepper Chicken, I was inspired by my favorite takeout order. After a few tweaks and adjustments, I perfected a recipe that’s now a family favorite. Let’s dive into the steps and tips to make this irresistible dish at home.

Why You’ll Love This Black Pepper Chicken

Get ready to fall head over heels for Black Pepper Chicken – a dish that’s as flavorful as it is simple to prepare.

It’s a Quick Weeknight Wonder
This recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for hectic schedules.

Packed with Bold, Irresistible Flavors
The combination of freshly cracked black pepper, soy sauce, and garlic creates a punchy, umami-packed sauce that’s incredibly satisfying.

Customizable to Suit Your Taste
Whether you prefer a milder version or want to turn up the heat, this dish adapts beautifully to your spice tolerance. Add extra veggies or swap the protein to make it your own.

Healthier Than Takeout
By using fresh ingredients and controlling the amount of oil and seasoning, you get all the flavor with none of the guilt.

Ready to try this out? Let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Black Pepper Chicken comes from its combination of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating the bold, peppery flavor profile.

Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe. They’re juicy, flavorful, and less likely to dry out than chicken breasts. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, they work too – just be sure not to overcook them.

Black Pepper
Freshly ground black pepper is the star of the show. Its robust, spicy flavor is unmatched, so don’t skimp here. Use coarse ground for the best texture and taste.

Soy Sauce
A combination of light soy sauce for saltiness and dark soy sauce for depth of color gives the dish its signature savory flavor.

Vegetables
Sliced bell peppers and onions add a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch. Feel free to toss in other veggies like broccoli or snow peas if you have them on hand.

Cornstarch Slurry
A mixture of cornstarch and water helps thicken the sauce, coating every bite of chicken and veggies in peppery goodness.

Special Equipment
A large skillet or wok is perfect for stir-frying everything together. Make sure it’s hot enough to sear the chicken quickly and evenly.

How To Make Black Pepper Chicken

Creating this flavorful Black Pepper Chicken is straightforward and fuss-free. Let’s break it down step by step.

1. Prep Your Ingredients
Start by slicing your chicken into thin, bite-sized pieces. Then, chop your vegetables into strips and set them aside. Make the sauce by mixing soy sauces, oyster sauce, sugar, and black pepper in a bowl.

2. Sear the Chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, cooking until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and toss in the onions and bell peppers. Cook until slightly softened but still crisp, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce over everything. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly. Add the cornstarch slurry, and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

5. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the Black Pepper Chicken to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Storage Options

Black Pepper Chicken stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigerator
Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Freezer
Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips
For a fresh-from-the-pan taste, reheat in a skillet rather than the microwave. This helps maintain the texture of the chicken and vegetables.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of Black Pepper Chicken lies in its versatility. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

Make it Spicier
Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chilies for an extra kick of heat.

Swap the Protein
Try this recipe with shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef for a different twist.

Add More Vegetables
Incorporate snap peas, mushrooms, or carrots to make this dish even more colorful and nutritious.

Go Gluten-Free
Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce to make this dish friendly for those with gluten sensitivities.

Low-Carb Option
Serve over cauliflower rice or stir-fried zucchini noodles to keep it low-carb and keto-friendly.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. No matter how you customize it, the peppery sauce and tender chicken will have everyone coming back for seconds!

With its bold flavors and quick prep, Black Pepper Chicken is bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Try it tonight and let the irresistible aroma and taste transform your kitchen into your favorite restaurant.

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