Black Pepper Chicken

Name: Black Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 500 grams or 1.1 lbs skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes; 2 tablespoons peanut oil; Salt, as required; 2 medium-sized onions, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes; ½ teaspoon minced garlic; ½ teaspoon minced ginger; 1 fresh red or green chili, chopped; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for sauce); 3 tablespoons light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; ½ teaspoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for sauce); 2 tablespoons water or chicken broth

Author: Lora

Published: June 30, 2025

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Introduction to Black Pepper Chicken

As a busy mom juggling work and family life, I understand how vital it is to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where Black Pepper Chicken comes in! This zesty dish brings together tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a savory sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. It’s quick, simple, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that’s not only hearty but also a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, this recipe will soon become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Black Pepper Chicken

What’s not to love about quick and delicious meals? This Black Pepper Chicken comes together in a snap! You’ll appreciate how it transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible dish that the whole family will devour. Plus, with just a bit of chopping and a few minutes on the stovetop, you’ll have dinner ready before you know it. It’s an easy way to add a burst of flavor to your busy week!

Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken

Gathering your ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken is as simple as a brisk stroll through your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

Skinless chicken breast: Tender and lean, the chicken breast is the star of this dish. It cooks quickly and absorbs all the flavors beautifully.
Peanut oil: This oil adds a subtle richness that enhances the dish. You can swap it for vegetable or canola oil if you prefer.
Salt: Just a sprinkle to season the chicken, enhancing its natural flavor.
Onions: Cut into bite-sized cubes, they add sweetness and depth to the dish.
Green bell pepper: This veggie adds crunch and a pop of color. Feel free to use red or yellow peppers for a sweeter taste.
Minced garlic and ginger: These aromatics bring warmth and depth to the sauce. Fresh is best, but jarred works in a pinch!
Chili: A fresh chili brings a gentle heat. Adjust it according to your spice tolerance or use chili flakes for an extra kick.
Cornstarch: It’s essential for coating the chicken, giving it that perfect golden crispiness.
Freshly ground black pepper: This is where the dish gets its name! Use it generously for that signature peppery flavor.
Soy sauce: Both light and dark varieties are used in the sauce, balancing saltiness with sweetness.
Rice vinegar: Its tangy notes brighten the dish and cut through the richness.
Brown sugar: Just a hint adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory elements.
Toasted sesame oil: It gives a nutty richness, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
Water or chicken broth: This helps adjust the sauce’s consistency, making it smooth and delicious.

All measurements can be found at the bottom of the article and are available for printing. Now that your ingredients are lined up like a well-rehearsed choir, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Prepare Your Ingredients

Before I dive into cooking, I always love to prep my ingredients. Start by washing and cutting the chicken into bite-sized cubes. This makes everything cook evenly. Next, chop your onions and bell pepper into 1-inch cubes. Don’t forget to mince the garlic and ginger too; these little guys add a ton of flavor! Having all your ingredients ready to go makes the cooking process smooth and fun. Trust me, it beats scrambling around the kitchen looking for things mid-recipe!

Mix the Sauce

Now, let’s get to the heart of what makes this Black Pepper Chicken so flavorful—the sauce! In a bowl, whisk together the freshly ground black pepper, rice vinegar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, cornstarch, and a bit of water. This is where the magic happens! The balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors is essential, so take a moment to taste it. Is it sharp enough? Adjust to suit your palate! Remember, this sauce is what will bring everything to life, coating our chicken in deliciousness.

Cook the Chicken

Next up is cooking the chicken. Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add one tablespoon of peanut oil. Let it heat up, then add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. This way, they get that beautiful golden color and crispiness. Cook for about five minutes, flipping them halfway for even browning. Once they’re almost done, transfer your chicken to a plate and repeat if necessary. Don’t worry if you have to do this in batches, it ensures your chicken doesn’t steam. Tender, juicy chicken is the aim here!

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

With your chicken cooked, it’s time to stir-fry those colorful veggies! In the same pan, add another tablespoon of peanut oil, heating it up over medium-high heat. Toss in minced garlic, ginger, and chopped chili, letting them sizzle for 30 seconds. Then, add the onion and bell pepper cubes. Stir-fry them quickly for about 3-4 minutes, just until they are crunchy yet tender. You want vibrant colors and textures that pop! Let them retain their freshness while soaking in those aromatic flavors. This step is crucial for creating a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds!

Combine Everything

Now for the big finish! Lower the heat and give that delicious sauce a quick re-whisk before pouring it into the pan with the veggies. Let it bubble for about 30 seconds, then add in your beautiful chicken. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated in that glossy sauce. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly at this point! Let it heat through, then sprinkle it with a bit of extra freshly ground black pepper for that final kick. Serve hot, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s sure to impress!

Tips for Success

Prep everything before you start cooking to streamline the process.
Use fresh spices; they enhance flavor and aroma significantly.
For extra crispiness, let the chicken rest after coating in cornstarch.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps achieve that golden sear.
Feel free to adjust the chili to suit your family’s spice tolerance.

Equipment Needed

Large frying pan: A non-stick one works wonders for easier cooking.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce smoothly; a fork can do in a pinch.
Cutting board: Use it to prep your veggies and chicken safely.
Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping a breeze.

Variations

For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, marinating it in the sauce for extra flavor.
Add more vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and crunch!
Incorporate cashews or peanuts to add a delightful nutty texture and flavor to the dish.
If you’re feeling adventurous, kick it up a notch with a splash of sherry or rice wine for a unique depth of flavor.
For a low-carb option, serve the dish over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Black Pepper Chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or noodles for a filling meal.
Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the spices.
A chilled glass of iced green tea complements the flavors beautifully.
For a pop of color, garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds.

FAQs about Black Pepper Chicken

Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe highlights chicken, you can easily swap it for beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times as needed to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

How do I store leftovers?
Store your Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last up to three days. If you’re like me, leftovers can often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

Can I make this dish in advance?
You can prep your ingredients and mix your sauce ahead of time. Just store everything separately in the fridge. When you’re ready for dinner, it’ll come together in minutes!

What should I serve with Black Pepper Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad. Think of it as the main event on your dinner table, surrounded by all the tasty sides!

How can I adjust the heat level?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili or omit it altogether. For those who love spice, feel free to add more chili or even sprinkle some chili flakes over the finished dish. Make it your own!

Final Thoughts

Cooking Black Pepper Chicken is more than just making a meal; it’s about creating a joyful experience in your kitchen. The vibrant colors, delightful aromas, and wonderfully balanced flavors come together to not only satisfy but also to spark connection among family and friends. This dish is a reminder that quick, delicious meals can bring everyone to the table, sharing stories and laughter. Each bite carries the warmth of home-cooked love, filling your heart and stomach. So, invite your loved ones in, serve this delightful dish, and relish the delightful moments you create together!