Description

This Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something deliciously satisfying. Tender chicken is coated in a savory sauce bursting with bold black pepper and garlic flavors, paired with crispy vegetables for added texture. Serve it with rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons soy sauce

For the Sauce:

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/3 cup chicken broth or water
1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

For the Stir-Fry:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, cut into strips (red, green, or yellow)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon ginger, minced
Optional garnish: Sliced green onions or sesame seeds

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Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch and soy sauce until evenly coated. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), sugar, chicken broth, and cracked black pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Sauté the onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your liking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds, and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Use Fresh Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper gives the best flavor—don’t skip this step!
Cut Evenly: Cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.
High Heat is Key: Stir-frying at high heat helps achieve that signature restaurant-style flavor.
Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American