Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

When it comes to satisfying weeknight dinners, few dishes can rival the enticing flavors of Black Pepper Chicken. This vibrant dish, packed with tender chicken and colorful vegetables, delivers a delightful punch of flavor that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a generous sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper creates a savory sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken and veggies. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, and you have a meal that is both comforting and incredibly delicious.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Black Pepper Chicken Recipe stands out for its simplicity and bold flavors. The use of fresh ingredients like bell peppers, celery, and onions makes it a visually appealing dish, while the balance of salty, sweet, and spicy notes provides a complex taste that delights the palate. Additionally, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time.

What Goes In

To create this delicious Black Pepper Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into thin strips for quick cooking.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps to create a crispy coating on the chicken.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds depth of flavor and saltiness.
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce – Enhances the umami flavor.
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil – Provides a rich, nutty aroma.
• 1 large green bell pepper – Very thinly sliced for crunch and color.
• 1 cup thinly sliced celery – Sliced on the bias for a tender yet crisp texture.
• 1 cup thinly sliced yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 teaspoons ginger paste – Provides a warm, spicy note.
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste – For a robust flavor (or you can use minced garlic).
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Adds acidity to balance the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons water – To thin the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon honey – A touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
• 1-3 teaspoons black pepper – Adjust according to your spice preference.
• Thinly sliced green onions – Optional, for garnish.
• Cooked white rice – Optional, for serving.

Must-Have Equipment

To make this dish, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Wok or large skillet – Ideal for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.
• Cutting board and knife – For slicing the chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring and tossing the ingredients while cooking.

Build Black Pepper Chicken Recipe Step by Step

Creating your Black Pepper Chicken is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken strips with cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. Toss until the chicken is well coated. This will help to create a crispy texture when cooked.

Step 2: Heat the Wok

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the sliced green bell pepper, celery, and yellow onion. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 4: Add Flavors

Add the ginger paste and garlic paste to the vegetables and stir-fry for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the wok. Add the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, water, honey, and black pepper. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Black Pepper Chicken over cooked white rice, garnished with thinly sliced green onions if desired. Enjoy the savory goodness!

Budget & Availability Swaps

If you’re looking to customize or adapt this recipe, consider the following swaps:

• Chicken thighs: Can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier option.
• Vegetable oil: Can replace sesame oil if needed.
• Red bell pepper: Can be used instead of green bell pepper for a sweeter flavor.
• Broccoli or snow peas: Can be added for extra veggies and crunch.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Black Pepper Chicken turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; this can lead to steaming instead of frying.
• Adjust the amount of black pepper to your taste—start with less and add more if needed.
• Make sure to cut the vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch coating; it adds a delightful texture to the chicken.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

If you have leftovers or want to prepare this dish in advance, follow these storage tips:

Store any leftover Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be cautious not to overcook. If you wish to freeze it, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari and ensure that your oyster sauce is also gluten-free.

What can I serve with Black Pepper Chicken?

Cooked white rice is a classic pairing, but you can also serve it with quinoa or noodles for a different twist.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level of the Black Pepper Chicken can be adjusted to your preference by varying the amount of black pepper you use.

Cook This Next

If you enjoyed this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe, here are some other delicious options to try next:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne – A rich and satisfying pasta dish.
• Cheesy Chicken Spinach Alfredo Pasta – Indulge in this creamy, cheesy pasta treat.

Bring It to the Table

Gather your loved ones and serve this stunning Black Pepper Chicken straight from the wok. The vibrant colors and aromatic flavors will have everyone excited to dig in. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. With its balance of savory and spicy elements, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy every bite!