This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and tasty dinner option! Juicy chicken is coated in a mix of black pepper and soy sauce, creating a yummy flavor that’s hard to resist.
You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy nights. I love serving it with rice or veggies for a complete meal. It’s like a little flavor party on your plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Bell Pepper: Green bell pepper adds crunch and flavor, but you can swap it out for other colors like red or yellow for sweetness, or even use snap peas or broccoli for variety.
Oyster Sauce: If you need a vegetarian option, hoisin sauce can be a good substitute, though it brings a different flavor profile. You can also omit it if you prefer a lighter sauce.
Cornstarch: This ingredient is optional for thickening. If you don’t have it, you can use flour or simply skip it if you like a thinner sauce.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken just right is key for a juicy bite. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot pan. This helps sear the chicken quickly, locking in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows for even cooking. You might need to cook the chicken in batches.
- Stir frequently to avoid burning and ensure even cooking. After about 6-8 minutes, the chicken should be golden brown and fully cooked.
Following these steps will help you achieve that perfect chicken texture every time!
How to Make Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Stir-Fry:
- 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, sliced into thick wedges
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2-3 fresh red chili peppers, sliced (optional for heat)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or any neutral cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Black Pepper Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook. So, you can expect to have a delicious dinner ready in about 30-35 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken pieces in a mixing bowl. Pour in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and add a pinch of black pepper. Mix well and let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes. This step adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken. Stir fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced chili peppers. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the onion wedges and green bell pepper chunks. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the veggies are slightly softened but still crisp.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and adjust the black pepper to your taste. Stir everything well to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer your sauce a bit thicker, add the cornstarch slurry now. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Final Touches:
Give your dish a taste and add salt if needed. Everything should be well-seasoned and full of flavor!
7. Serve:
Serve the black pepper chicken hot with steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This easy and quick recipe is a great way to enjoy a flavorful dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice for this recipe as they are juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if you cut them into larger pieces to ensure they are fully cooked through.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the number of red chili peppers or omit them entirely. For extra heat, add more chili peppers or include some crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce.
Can I Prep This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a few hours in advance. Just store everything separately in the fridge and stir-fry them together when you’re ready to cook.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or sauté in a pan until heated through.
