If you have a craving for something bold, savory, and utterly satisfying, this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe has got you covered. The perfect harmony of tender chicken thighs, vibrant bell peppers, and that unmistakable punch of freshly ground black pepper creates a dish that feels both comforting and exciting. It’s quick to make yet packed with layers of flavor that will remind you of your favorite Asian takeout, except this time, it’s all homemade and lovingly prepared in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Though the ingredient list for this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is straightforward, each component plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect blend of taste, texture, and color. Fresh vegetables bring crunch and brightness, sauces add depth and umami, and of course, black pepper is the star that ties everything together.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, chicken thighs stay moist during cooking and soak up the marinade beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides salty, savory umami for balanced seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a subtle sweetness and extra richness to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Brightens the flavor with a touch of tangy sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: A hint of acidity to cut through richness and add freshness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (divided): Essential for a velvety sauce texture and light coating on the chicken.
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper: The hero spice that delivers a bold, aromatic heat.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For a perfect sear and sauté without overpowering flavors.
- 1 green bell pepper (diced): Provides crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 red bell pepper (diced): Adds sweetness and a beautiful contrast.
- 1 small onion (sliced): Brings a subtle natural sweetness when cooked.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with savory depth and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon ginger (minced): Adds warmth and a fresh zing to brighten flavors.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water: Helps create a glossy, flavorful sauce.
- Salt to taste: To adjust and enhance overall seasoning.
- Sliced green onions for garnish (optional): Offers a fresh, crisp finish.
- Cooked rice for serving: The perfect base to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce.
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by giving your chicken bite-sized pieces a quick but impactful marinade. Toss the chicken with half a tablespoon of cornstarch, one tablespoon of soy sauce, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. This simple step tenderizes the chicken and marks the beginning of flavor building. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes to really soak in those aromas.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, the remaining cornstarch, chicken broth, and the rest of the freshly ground black pepper in a separate bowl. This concoction will become your glossy, deeply flavored sauce that brings everything together.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pieces are nicely browned and cooked through. This caramelization adds texture and layers of savory flavor.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the sliced onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant — this builds the aromatic base that awakens the dish. Add the diced green and red bell peppers and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so they soften slightly but retain a crisp bite and their vibrant color.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the chicken to the skillet, pour in the prepared sauce, and toss everything together to coat evenly. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become glossy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or extra black pepper for that signature punch.
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing with sliced green onions adds a lovely layer of freshness and a pop of green that brightens every forkful. You can also sprinkle a light drizzle of toasted sesame oil for a subtle nutty aroma that complements the peppery notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serving your Black Pepper Chicken Recipe hot over steamed white or jasmine rice is classic and comforting, soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce. You can also pair it with simple stir-fried greens like bok choy or snap peas to balance the meal and add extra crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in lettuce wraps, adding an icy crisp contrast to the warm, spicy chicken. Another idea is to pile it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthy, protein-packed alternative. Garnish with extra cracked black pepper to emphasize the bold flavor even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container once cooled to room temperature. It will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining most of its flavor and texture.
Freezing
This dish is freezer-friendly! Store portions in a sealed container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When thawing, do so overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Heat until warmed through and enjoy as if freshly made. Microwaving is okay for convenience but stir occasionally to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast will work if you prefer leaner meat, but keep in mind it tends to dry out faster, so watch the cooking time closely to keep it tender.
How spicy is this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe?
The heat mainly comes from the freshly ground black pepper, which provides a warm, peppery kick rather than outright spiciness. You can easily add chili flakes or fresh chili if you want more heat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adjust cook times as these ingredients have different textures and moisture levels.
What kind of soy sauce works best?
Regular or low-sodium soy sauce both work well. Low-sodium helps control saltiness, letting the black pepper’s flavor shine through even more.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
While not mandatory, marinating the chicken even briefly enhances tenderness and infuses early layers of flavor that make the dish stand out.
Final Thoughts
This Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special yet is surprisingly simple to pull off. It’s a wonderful way to share vibrant flavors packed with personality and comfort at your table any day of the week. I encourage you to grab those fresh ingredients and get cooking—your taste buds are in for a real treat!
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Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Black Pepper Chicken recipe delivers a flavorful and juicy stir-fried main course inspired by Asian takeout favorites. Tender chicken thighs are marinated and cooked with vibrant bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a bold, peppery sauce for a quick and satisfying meal perfect served over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt to taste
- Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and a pinch of black pepper. Allow it to marinate for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors and tenderize.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, remaining cornstarch, chicken broth, and the rest of the black pepper to form a smooth sauce that will thicken when cooked.
- Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally until all sides are browned and the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté aromatics and vegetables: If needed, add more oil to the pan. Sauté the sliced onion, minced garlic, and ginger for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Then add the diced green and red bell peppers, cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Combine and finish: Return the chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything together to coat evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes more until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt or extra black pepper as desired.
- Serve: Serve the Black Pepper Chicken hot over steamed rice, garnished with sliced green onions if you like for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for the boldest flavor impact.
- Chicken thighs yield juicier results, but chicken breast can be substituted if preferred.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes or fresh chili for a spicy kick.
