This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is packed with bold flavor! Juicy chicken pieces are tossed in a stir-fry of black pepper, garlic, and soy sauce, making every bite delicious.
I love how quick this dish is to whip up! Just grab some chicken and spices, and dinner is ready in no time. Perfect for a busy weeknight when cravings hit! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless chicken thighs for their juiciness. But if you prefer chicken breasts, they work too! Any leftover cooked chicken can also be used—just add it towards the end of cooking.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper gives the best flavor. If you’re out, ground black pepper will work, but the taste won’t be as bold. Adjust the amount to match your spice preference—start light if you’re unsure!
Oyster Sauce: This is optional, but it adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, try substituting with hoisin sauce or even a bit of soy sauce mixed with a little sugar to mimic the sweetness.
Oil: Vegetable or sesame oil works well. I personally prefer sesame oil for its nutty flavor, but any cooking oil you have on hand will do just fine.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Tender and Juicy?
For tender chicken, avoid overcooking! Here’s how to achieve great texture:
- Use medium-high heat to sear the chicken quickly, which locks in moisture.
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Remember to let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy when you cut into it!
What’s the Best Way to Enhance the Flavor?
To elevate the taste of your dish:
- Marinate the chicken in soy sauce and black pepper for 15-30 minutes before cooking, if you have the time.
- Garnishing with fresh chopped green onions gives a nice crunch and freshness.
- If you like a bit of heat, throw in some sliced fresh chilies when cooking.
Feel free to adjust any spices to suit your taste. Cooking is all about making it yours! Enjoy your flavorful black pepper chicken! 🍽️
Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe With Bold Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you should be able to enjoy your delicious Black Pepper Chicken in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating your choice of oil (vegetable or sesame) in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. It’s important to have a hot pan to get that nice sear on the chicken!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and sliced onion to the pan. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until you can smell the delicious aroma and the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Next, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the pan. Season lightly with salt and cook for about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally until the chicken is nicely browned and fully cooked through.
4. Season with Black Pepper:
Now, it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle the freshly cracked black pepper over the chicken and stir well to ensure each piece is well-coated.
5. Add Sauces:
Mix in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and sugar or honey. Stir everything together well to combine all the flavors beautifully.
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry at this point. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more black pepper or salt as needed. This ensures it’s perfect for your palate!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is well-combined and delicious, garnish with the chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Black Pepper Chicken hot with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
This recipe delivers a punch of bold black pepper flavor complemented by savory soy and garlic. Quick, easy, and absolutely flavorful—enjoy your culinary creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can absolutely use chicken breasts if you prefer! Just keep in mind that thighs are juicier, but breasts will work just fine—just be sure not to overcook them to keep them tender.
What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or simply use additional soy sauce mixed with a bit of sugar for sweetness. This will give a nice flavor without compromising the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when cooking. You can also increase the amount of black pepper for an extra kick!
