This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a quick dish bursting with flavor. Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a peppery sauce, making each bite a tasty treat!
You’ll love how fast it comes together—perfect for busy evenings. I usually pair it with rice, so I can soak up all that delicious sauce. Trust me, it’s a winner! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast is a lean choice, perfect for this dish. If you want more flavor, you can use boneless thighs instead. They’re juicier but require a bit more cooking time.
Soy Sauce & Oyster Sauce: Both sauces add umami flavor. If you’re avoiding soy, try using tamari or coconut aminos. For a vegetarian option, use mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce.
Cornstarch: This ingredient helps crisp the chicken. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute, but it won’t be as crispy.
Bell Pepper: You can use any color bell pepper based on your preference. If you don’t have any, zucchini or even snap peas can work as good alternatives.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is key for the flavor. You can adjust the amount based on your taste. If you prefer less heat, try using white pepper, which is milder.
How Do You Get the Chicken to Cook Just Right?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here’s what to keep in mind:
- Start with a hot skillet or wok to get that nice sear on the chicken. This enhances the flavor and keeps it juicy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. Too many pieces at once can steam rather than brown the chicken.
- Stir constantly during cooking to ensure all sides get heated evenly.
- Check for doneness: no pink should be visible, and juices should run clear. It typically takes about 5-7 minutes.
How to Make Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 500g chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper (green or red), sliced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
For Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Red chilies, sliced (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, with an additional 15-20 minutes for marinating the chicken. In total, you can have this Easy Black Pepper Chicken ready in about 35-40 minutes, making it a quick and tasty meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well together. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. This step helps the chicken absorb all those delicious flavors!
2. Heat the Oil:
While the chicken is marinating, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it is cooked through and has turned a lovely golden brown color. Make sure to stir often to cook evenly.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to become slightly tender but still have some crunch.
5. Season the Dish:
Now, sprinkle in the freshly ground black pepper and add the sugar if you’re using it. Mix everything together well and season with salt to taste. Let it cook for an additional minute to combine all those amazing flavors.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat. If you like a bit of heat, garnish your dish with sliced red chilies. Serve your Easy Black Pepper Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Another Type of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a little longer to cook through. Boneless, skinless thighs are a great choice!
What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No problem! You can use a mixture of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar as a substitute. Alternatively, a mix of soy sauce and hoisin sauce will work too, giving a slightly different but delicious flavor to the dish!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add more freshly ground black pepper or include additional sliced red chilies during cooking. For an extra kick, consider incorporating a splash of chili oil or sriracha to the marinade!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Easy Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Enjoy your leftovers!
