Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Looking for a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s quick to make and packed with bold, spicy flavors? This Black Pepper Chicken recipe is exactly what you need! A delicious combination of tender chicken pieces stir-fried with colorful veggies, coated in a rich, peppery sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're cooking for your family or just looking to spice up your weeknight dinner, this dish is perfect for you. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and everything you need to make the perfect Black Pepper Chicken!

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What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken is a popular Chinese stir-fry dish made with bite-sized pieces of chicken, bell peppers, onions, and other vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce that’s highlighted by freshly cracked black pepper. The dish is known for its bold peppery flavor that balances well with the rich umami notes from soy sauce, garlic, and other seasonings. Often served with steamed rice, it’s a versatile and easy meal that can be customized to your liking. It’s a healthier alternative to takeout but just as tasty!

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Ingredients List for Black Pepper Chicken

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. The freshness and quality of the ingredients are key to achieving that restaurant-style flavor at home.

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

For the Black Pepper Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color, optional)
• 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken sauce)

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (green, red, or yellow), sliced
• ½ cup snow peas (optional)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground, to finish)

These ingredients are commonly found at most grocery stores, and together they form the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and savory flavors.

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Substitutions and Variations

Don’t have all the ingredients on hand or want to switch things up? No problem! Here are a few common substitutions and variations you can try to customize your Black Pepper Chicken recipe.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Chicken Alternatives: Not a fan of chicken? You can substitute it with other proteins like beef, shrimp, tofu, or pork. Each of these alternatives works well with the black pepper sauce.
• Soy Sauce Substitutes: If you're gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
• Oyster Sauce Alternatives: For a vegetarian version, swap oyster sauce with mushroom sauce or leave it out entirely.
• Vegetable Options: Don’t have bell peppers or onions? Try using broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini as a substitute.

Flavor Variations:

• Extra Spicy: If you love heat, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or some sliced fresh chilies for extra spice.
• Sweeter Sauce: For a slightly sweeter version of the dish, add a little more sugar or even a tablespoon of honey to the sauce.

Feel free to make the dish your own by adjusting the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make the most delicious Black Pepper Chicken at home? Follow these simple steps for a perfect stir-fry that’s full of bold flavors.

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil (if using), and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. Marinating helps the chicken soak up the flavors and tenderizes it, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites.

2. Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, make the black pepper sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar, freshly ground black pepper, sugar, and cornstarch slurry. Set this aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

4. Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and snow peas (if using), and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still crisp.

5. Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour in the black pepper sauce. Stir everything together and let the sauce thicken for 1-2 minutes, making sure all the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more soy sauce for saltiness, vinegar for tang, or black pepper for more spice.

6. Serve

Once everything is coated in the delicious sauce and the chicken is fully cooked, remove from heat. Garnish with extra freshly ground black pepper and serve hot!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Black Pepper Chicken is simple, but here are a few common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

1. Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooking chicken, especially breast meat, can make it dry and tough. Be sure to stir-fry it quickly over high heat for a tender, juicy texture.
2. Using Pre-Ground Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper has a much more intense and vibrant flavor compared to pre-ground. For the best results, always use freshly cracked black pepper.
3. Not Stirring the Sauce: Cornstarch tends to settle at the bottom of the sauce mixture, so always give it a quick stir before adding it to the pan to ensure the sauce thickens properly.
4. Crowding the Pan: When stir-frying, it's important not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to allow it to sear and develop a nice texture.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

A beautifully cooked dish deserves a beautiful presentation. Here are some tips to serve and present your Black Pepper Chicken like a pro.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

• With Steamed Rice: The most common way to serve Black Pepper Chicken is over a bed of steamed jasmine or basmati rice. The rice soaks up the sauce, making each bite incredibly flavorful.
• With Noodles: You can also serve this stir-fry over a plate of lo mein or rice noodles for a delicious Asian-inspired meal.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken in fresh lettuce leaves as a wrap. It's a fun and healthy way to enjoy this dish.

Presentation Ideas for Black Pepper Chicken

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro, green onions, or even sesame seeds adds a pop of color and flavor to the dish.
• Serve on a Platter: If you're serving this dish to guests, arrange the chicken and veggies on a large serving platter, and garnish with extra cracked black pepper for an elegant presentation.

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Black Pepper Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to cook the ingredients quickly and give them that characteristic seared flavor. Make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding the ingredients.
• Cut Chicken Evenly: To ensure that the chicken cooks evenly, cut the pieces into uniform sizes.
• Adjust the Pepper Level: You can always adjust the amount of black pepper based on your taste preference. If you're not sure how much to use, start with a teaspoon and increase it to your liking.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Black Pepper Chicken in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and stir-fry just before serving for the best texture.

2. How long do leftovers last?

Leftover Black Pepper Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

3. Can I use ground black pepper instead of freshly cracked?

While you can use pre-ground pepper, freshly cracked black pepper provides a more robust flavor and is highly recommended for this dish.

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Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special dinner. With bold black pepper as the star, paired with tender chicken and crisp veggies, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it with rice, noodles, or as a lettuce wrap, it’s a delicious dish that’s sure to impress. So why wait? Try this recipe today and savor the incredible flavors!

Happy cooking!

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