Black Pepper Chicken

If you love bold, peppery flavors with tender chicken and crisp veggies, this Black Pepper Chicken is a must-try! It’s a quick and easy stir-fry that’s packed with savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold & Peppery – A rich black pepper sauce gives this dish its signature flavor.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes!
• Better Than Takeout – Fresh, homemade, and healthier than restaurant versions.
• Versatile – Easily customize with your favorite veggies or protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Breast (1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces) – Lean and perfect for stir-frying.
• Soy Sauce (2 tbsp) – Adds depth of flavor.
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Helps create a crispy coating.
• Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp) – For stir-frying.

For the Sauce:

• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (¼ cup) – A savory umami base.
• Oyster Sauce (1 tbsp) – Adds a rich, slightly sweet depth.
• Chicken Broth (¼ cup) – Enhances the sauce.
• Brown Sugar (1 tsp) – Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness.
• Black Pepper (1 tbsp, freshly ground) – The star of the dish! Use coarse black pepper for the best flavor.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – A must for bold flavor.
• Ginger (1 tsp, minced) – Adds warmth and depth.
• Cornstarch Slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) – Thickens the sauce.

For the Stir-Fry:

• Bell Peppers (1 cup, sliced – any color) – Adds crunch and sweetness.
• Onion (1 small, sliced) – Enhances flavor and texture.
• Celery (½ cup, sliced) – Classic for that crisp bite.
• Green Onions (2, sliced for garnish) – Adds a fresh finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cutting board and knife

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 2 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prep the veggies.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, and black pepper.
• In another small bowl, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water to make a slurry. Set both aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

• Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add another tbsp of oil.
• Toss in the garlic, ginger, onions, celery, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
• Pour in the sauce and stir well.
• Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let the sauce thicken for 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

• Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

What to Serve with Black Pepper Chicken

• Steamed Rice – White, brown, or jasmine rice pairs perfectly.
• Noodles – Try it with stir-fried or lo mein noodles.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables – Add broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for extra veggies.

Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken

• Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Coarse black pepper gives the best flavor and heat.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Stir-fry in batches if needed to keep the chicken crispy.
• For Extra Heat – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze – Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheat – Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Chicken thighs will add more juiciness to the dish.

Is this dish very spicy?
It has a bold black pepper kick but isn’t overly spicy. Adjust the black pepper to taste!

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce to keep it gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Black Pepper Chicken is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights. With a bold black pepper kick, tender chicken, and crisp veggies, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!

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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 35g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 680mg

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