Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

When it comes to easy, flavorful dinners that can win over the entire family, Black Pepper Chicken tops the list. This savory dish combines tender chicken with a peppery punch that elevates even the simplest weeknight meals.

If you’re a fan of quick and delicious dinners like I am—whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering—then this recipe will be a game-changer. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Let me show you how to make this standout dish, packed with flavors and ready to please your taste buds.

What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken is a classic dish found in many Asian-inspired restaurants, with bold black pepper as the main star. Think of it as a stir-fry where tender, juicy pieces of chicken are combined with crisp vegetables, coated in a black pepper sauce that’s just the right amount of savory, spicy, and umami.

This dish is often paired with rice, but you can get creative with sides. The beauty of this recipe is how quickly it comes together while still being bursting with flavor. It’s a healthier take compared to many takeout options, but with all the satisfaction.

The sauce is typically made from soy sauce, garlic, and of course, freshly ground black pepper, which adds an earthy, slightly spicy kick to the dish. Whether you’re craving a light meal or something hearty, Black Pepper Chicken can be easily adapted to suit your taste.

Ingredients List for Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:

• Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Bell Peppers: 1 red, 1 yellow, sliced into strips (these not only add flavor but also a beautiful color contrast)
• Onion: 1 small, sliced
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1 ½ teaspoons (freshly cracked gives the best flavor!)
• Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons (you can opt for low-sodium to keep it healthier)
• Oyster Sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional, but it adds depth to the sauce)
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (to coat the chicken and help thicken the sauce)
• Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons (for stir-frying)
• Chicken Broth: 1/4 cup
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon (balances the saltiness of the sauce)
• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon (for that nutty, aromatic finish)
• Green Onions: chopped, for garnish

Optional Add-ins:

• Chili Flakes: For a bit of heat.
• Ginger: A teaspoon of minced ginger will add warmth to the dish.
• Mushrooms: If you want an earthier flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Cooking is all about flexibility, especially when you’re catering to your family’s preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions to make this Pepper Chicken Recipe work for you:

• Chicken: Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer leaner meat. For a vegetarian option, tofu or tempeh works well.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Vegetables: If bell peppers aren’t your favorite, try broccoli, zucchini, or even carrots. For an extra crunch, water chestnuts are a great addition!
• Spice Level: If you’re cooking for kids who aren’t fans of spicy food, reduce the amount of black pepper or skip the chili flakes.

Feel free to mix and match depending on what you have on hand or what your family enjoys most.

Black Pepper Chicken Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into how to make this delicious Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry!

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss well to coat the chicken and let it marinate for about 10 minutes. This helps tenderize the chicken and locks in flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, in a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, chicken broth, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and sesame oil. Set this sauce mixture aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches, ensuring the pan isn’t overcrowded. Stir-fry the chicken until it’s golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Toss in the onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften but still have a nice crunch.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Vegetables

Return the chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the mixture, stirring everything to coat evenly. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens and everything is nicely coated.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper and chopped green onions. Serve immediately over a bed of steaming jasmine rice or noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Black Pepper Chicken

1. Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken cooks fast, and overcooking it can make it dry. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the pan as soon as it’s done.
2. Not Using Fresh Black Pepper: The key to this dish is the black pepper, so using freshly cracked pepper is essential. Pre-ground pepper lacks the same punch.
3. Crowding the Pan: When stir-frying, make sure to cook the chicken in batches. Crowding the pan can cause steaming instead of frying, and you won’t get that golden-brown sear.

Black Pepper Chicken Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is part of the fun! Here are some simple ways to elevate your Easy Black Pepper Chicken:

• Serve on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of sauces for dipping.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for a touch of color and texture.
• Arrange your chicken and peppers on a bed of rice in a large family-style platter—let everyone dig in!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice if you’re aiming for a healthier option. For a low-carb meal, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or a light cucumber salad. You can also try serving it as a filling for lettuce wraps, which makes it a fun and interactive dish for kids.

Extra Recipe Tips for Black Pepper Chicken

• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and chop the veggies in advance to save time when you’re ready to cook.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan to maintain the stir-fry texture.
• Add More Veggies: Sneak in extra nutrition by adding vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or even spinach!

FAQs

What does black pepper add to a dish?
Black pepper adds a warm, spicy kick that enhances the savory flavors of the dish.

Is Panda Express Black Pepper Chicken healthy?
This homemade version is healthier because you control the ingredients and reduce excess oils or added sugars found in takeout options.

What is black pepper sauce made of?
It’s typically made from soy sauce, garlic, black pepper, and sometimes oyster sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe a try! It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that brings restaurant-quality food right to your table. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick family dinner or want something special for the weekend, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The best part? It’s so versatile that you can tweak it to fit your family’s preferences while keeping things fresh and exciting.