Bursting with bold flavors, this Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a restaurant-style meal made at home. It’s quick, easy, and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Whether you’re craving something savory for dinner or want a dish that pairs perfectly with rice, this recipe ticks all the boxes. The rich aroma of black pepper with tender chicken pieces delivers a mouthwatering experience that’s healthy, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Quick and Easy Cooking Time
Making this black pepper chicken is a breeze! Here’s an overview of the time needed:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Time-saving tips? Chop your vegetables in advance and marinate the chicken the night before. If you’re a beginner, set up all your ingredients beforehand to make the process seamless. With under 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor.
Must-Have Kitchen Tools for This Recipe
To make this dish a success, having the right kitchen tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you need:
- Non-stick skillet or wok for even cooking without sticking.
- Sharp knife and cutting board for slicing chicken and dicing veggies.
- Mixing bowls for marinating the chicken and preparing sauces.
- Measuring spoons and cups to ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
- Silicone spatula or wooden spoon for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Make sure your tools are clean and ready to go before you start cooking this delicious “easy recipe”. These essential gadgets simplify the process, making the recipe beginner-friendly.
Simple Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this black pepper chicken recipe lies in its simplicity. Below is the complete list of ingredients you’ll need, along with some friendly tips on alternatives:
Main Ingredients
- Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breasts (500g)
- Black Pepper (2 tsp)
- Soy Sauce (3 tbsp)
- Oyster Sauce (2 tbsp)
- Cornstarch (1 tbsp)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Oil (2 tbsp)
Optional Additions
- Bell Peppers (1 cup, chopped)
- Onions (1 medium, sliced)
- Chili Flakes (for spice lovers)
These easy ingredients can be swapped to cater to your dietary needs. For instance, replace regular soy sauce with a low-sodium version or opt for plant-based chicken substitutes if you’re vegan.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Black Pepper Chicken
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic, slice the onions, and dice any added vegetables like bell peppers. Keep everything ready to streamline the cooking process.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Combine chicken pieces with 1 tbsp of soy sauce, cornstarch, and 1 tsp of black pepper. Mix well and set aside for at least 10 minutes. This tenderizes the chicken and gives it a savory base flavor.
3. Make the Sauce
Mix 2 tbsp soy sauce, oyster sauce, 1 tsp black pepper, and 2 tbsp water in a small bowl. Stir until well-combined.
4. Start Stir-frying
Heat oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the marinated chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
5. Add Veggies and Sauce
If using bell peppers or onions, add them now. Stir-fry for 2 minutes to keep the veggies crunchy. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken. Stir well to combine, ensuring everything is coated in the savory black pepper sauce.
6. Simmer and Serve
Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce. Turn off the heat when the consistency is just right. Serve your black pepper chicken hot and garnish with freshly chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a restaurant-style look.
Creative Serving Ideas for Black Pepper Chicken
Looking for ways to level up this dish? Black pepper chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
- Steamed or Fried Rice: The classic combo!
- Noodles: Toss this tangy chicken over chow mein or rice noodles.
- Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- On its Own: Enjoy as is for a high-protein meal that’s full of flavor.
Adding a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or red chili flakes is a quick way to elevate your serving presentation.
Pro Tips for Perfect Black Pepper Chicken
Tips for Flavors and Customizations
- Adjust the Pepper Levels: Use less black pepper if you prefer a milder taste, or go heavier for extra spice.
- Add Citrus: A splash of lime juice can balance out the richness of the sauce.
- Make It Nutritious: Include broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini for added vitamins.
Cooking Secrets
- Preheat your skillet for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to keep the chicken crispy.
- Keep stirring to prevent sticking or burning, especially with thick sauces.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Calcium: 2% of the daily value
- Iron: 6% of the daily value
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Got extras? No problem! Follow these easy tips to keep your black pepper chicken fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, place in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or microwave it on medium heat to retain its texture and flavor. Avoid overcooking during reheating to prevent dryness.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can definitely make this recipe vegetarian! Simply substitute the chicken with plant-based options like tofu, paneer, or even tempeh for a protein-rich alternative. For best results, ensure the tofu or paneer is firm and press it to remove extra moisture before marinating.
Stick to the same marination steps to infuse the vegetarian substitute with bold flavors. This approach retains the essence of the dish while making it perfect for a vegetarian recipe craving.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
Adjusting the spice level is all about customizing the balance to your preference. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of black pepper or skip chili flakes altogether. For an extra kick, increase the black pepper quantity or add fresh chili slices or chili oil.
Taste the sauce as you go to ensure it matches your preference. With this flexibility, you can enjoy a perfectly balanced spice level every time!
What’s the Secret to Tender Chicken?
The secret lies in marinating the chicken! Combining cornstarch with soy sauce creates a light coating that locks in moisture, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful. The cornstarch also helps seal the chicken’s natural juices during cooking, preventing it from drying out, even when prepared with lean meats like chicken breast.
Whether you’re stir-frying or slow-cooking, this tender chicken tip ensures your dish is consistently delicious and restaurant-quality.
Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breasts 500g
- Black Pepper 2 tsp
- Soy Sauce 3 tbsp
- Oyster Sauce 2 tbsp
- Cornstarch 1 tbsp
- Garlic 4 cloves, minced
- Oil 2 tbsp
- Bell Peppers 1 cup, chopped
- Onions 1 medium, sliced
- Chili Flakes for spice lovers
Instructions
- Chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic, slice the onions, and dice any added vegetables like bell peppers. Keep everything ready to streamline the cooking process.
- Combine chicken pieces with 1 tbsp of soy sauce, cornstarch, and 1 tsp of black pepper. Mix well and set aside for at least 10 minutes. This tenderizes the chicken and gives it a savory base flavor.
- Mix 2 tbsp soy sauce, oyster sauce, 1 tsp black pepper, and 2 tbsp water in a small bowl. Stir until well-combined.
- Heat oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the marinated chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- If using bell peppers or onions, add them now. Stir-fry for 2 minutes to keep the veggies crunchy. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken. Stir well to combine, ensuring everything is coated in the savory black pepper sauce.
Notes
- Adjust the Pepper Levels: Use less black pepper if you prefer a milder taste, or go heavier for extra spice.
- Add Citrus: A splash of lime juice can balance out the richness of the sauce.
- Make It Nutritious: Include broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini for added vitamins.
