This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a tasty, quick meal that packs a punch! Juicy chicken pieces are coated in black pepper and garlic for a simple, flavorful dish that everyone will love.
I enjoy making this when I’m short on time—just toss everything in a pan, and in no time, it’s ready to eat! Perfect with rice or noodles. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: The star of this dish! While chicken breast is commonly used, you can swap it with chicken thighs for a juicier bite. Vegetarian? Consider tofu or seitan as protein alternatives.
Soy Sauce: A must-have for savory depth. If you’re watching sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce, or try tamari for a gluten-free option.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a unique richness. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, look for mushroom sauce as a great substitute.
Vegetable Oil: I like using vegetable oil for frying, but you can use sesame oil for an extra flavor boost. Just be mindful of the smoke point!
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: This is key for the dish’s name! Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking—more pepper equals more heat!
How Do I Get Perfect Stir-Fried Chicken?
The crucial step is to marinate the chicken properly. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful. Here’s what to do:
- Mix chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate.
- When cooking, make sure your skillet is hot. This ensures the chicken browns nicely without steaming.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed. This helps achieve that golden color.
Lastly, when combining everything, quickly toss the ingredients to keep them crisp and vibrant! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 500g chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- Salt to taste
For The Stir-Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2-3 red chilies, sliced (optional for heat)
- 2-3 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare, including marinating the chicken for about 20-30 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well until the chicken is coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for about 20-30 minutes to soak in the flavors.
2. Prepare the Skillet:
While your chicken is marinating, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, as this helps it brown nicely.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
4. Stir-Fry the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds, just until they become fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
5. Add the Vegetables:
Now, toss in the sliced onions and diced bell peppers. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender yet still crisp. We want them to keep some crunch!
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper over the top. Toss everything together, mixing well so the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the flavors.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste! If it needs more flavor, add a bit more salt or black pepper. If you enjoy some heat, now’s the time to throw in those sliced red chilies.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Black Pepper Chicken hot with steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy your meal and the wonderful flavors!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works great with beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be mindful of cooking times; beef might need a little longer, while tofu should be pressed to remove excess moisture before marinating.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute. You can also try coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor. Just remember that these substitutes might change the taste a bit, so adjust seasonings accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftover Black Pepper Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Ginger and Garlic?
You can use ground ginger and garlic powder as substitutes! Use 1/4 teaspoon of each in place of the fresh versions. While fresh ingredients offer a vibrant flavor, the dried spices will still add a nice depth to the dish.
