Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

If you're looking for a flavorful, spicy, and satisfying dish that's also quick to prepare, this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is the answer. With its rich peppery taste, tender chicken pieces, and delicious sauce, this dish will soon become a favorite in your home. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, black pepper chicken delivers a burst of flavor with every bite. Read on to discover everything you need to make this dish, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and serving ideas.

What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black pepper chicken is a popular Chinese-inspired dish made with bite-sized chicken pieces stir-fried in a savory black pepper sauce. The sauce is packed with freshly cracked black pepper, soy sauce, garlic, and a few other key ingredients that give the dish a deep, peppery flavor balanced with salty, slightly sweet notes. This dish is often served with rice or noodles, making it a complete and satisfying meal. The spiciness of the black pepper combined with the umami-rich sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile that's sure to impress.

---

Ingredients List for Black Pepper Chicken

To make this delicious Black Pepper Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or any other cooking oil)

For the Black Pepper Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional, to balance the spice)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening the sauce)

For Stir-Frying:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro
• Sesame seeds
• Extra chopped green onions

---

Substitutions and Variations

This Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations and substitutions to try:

• Chicken Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu. Adjust the cooking times based on the protein you're using.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like broccoli, carrots, zucchini, or snap peas. The veggies will absorb the black pepper sauce and add more texture to the dish.
• Soy Sauce Alternatives: If you're gluten-free, replace the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
• Pepper Variations: If freshly ground black pepper is too strong for you, reduce the amount or use pre-ground black pepper for a milder version.
• Low-Sugar Option: Omit the honey or sugar if you prefer a completely savory dish, or replace it with a sugar substitute like monk fruit or stevia.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Black Pepper Chicken is a straightforward process, but it's essential to have all your ingredients prepared ahead of time for smooth cooking. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss to coat evenly and let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy while cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Black Pepper Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly ground black pepper, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, water, and honey (if using). Set this sauce mixture aside. Be sure to taste it before adding all the pepper if you’re unsure about the heat level.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

• Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer.
• Stir-fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes until it's golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

• In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
• Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Step 5: Add the Sauce and Chicken

• Pour the prepared black pepper sauce into the pan with the vegetables. Stir to combine and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.
• Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and toss to coat all the ingredients in the sauce.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

• Stir the cornstarch and water mixture into the pan. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken and vegetables.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Remove the pan from heat. Garnish the black pepper chicken with chopped green onions, cilantro, or sesame seeds, if desired.

---

How to Cook Black Pepper Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick breakdown of how to cook Black Pepper Chicken to perfection:

1. Marinate the Chicken: This keeps the chicken tender and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Sauce: Mix the black pepper sauce ingredients for that signature spicy-sweet flavor.
3. Stir-Fry the Chicken: Cook the marinated chicken until golden and cooked through.
4. Cook the Vegetables: Stir-fry onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger for a flavorful base.
5. Add the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer and thicken slightly.
6. Combine: Toss the chicken back in and mix everything until well coated.
7. Serve and Garnish: Add garnishes and serve over rice or noodles.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this dish is easy to prepare, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken cooks quickly, so remove it from the heat once it's done to avoid dry, tough meat.
• Not Using Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Pre-ground black pepper won’t give the dish the same bold flavor. Use freshly ground pepper for the best results.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so be careful not to let it cook for too long before adding the sauce.
• Skipping the Cornstarch: The cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce, helping it cling to the chicken and vegetables. Don’t skip this step!

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make your Black Pepper Chicken look as good as it tastes. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

• With Rice: Black pepper chicken is traditionally served with steamed white or jasmine rice, which helps absorb the flavorful sauce.
• With Noodles: Toss the chicken with stir-fried noodles for a hearty, comforting dish.
• In a Lettuce Wrap: For a lighter option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves.
• Over Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice.

Presentation Ideas for Black Pepper Chicken

• Garnish with Green Onions: The bright green onions add color and a fresh bite to the dish.
• Use a Cast Iron Skillet or Wok: Serve the dish straight from a wok or skillet for a rustic and authentic presentation.
• Add Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Serve on a Bed of Greens: Plate the black pepper chicken over a bed of fresh arugula or spinach for a colorful contrast.

---

Black Pepper Chicken Recipe Tips

• Preheat the Pan: Ensure your pan or wok is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the chicken and develop flavor.
• Adjust the Pepper: If you're sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of black pepper or use a milder pepper.
• Double the Sauce: If you like extra sauce to spoon over rice or noodles, double the sauce recipe.
• Prep Everything Before Cooking: Have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking, as stir-frying happens quickly.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked, making them a great choice for this recipe.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or zucchini.

Q: How can I make the dish spicier?
A: Add sliced chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

---

Conclusion

This Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that you can easily prepare at home. The combination of tender chicken, crispy vegetables, and a bold black pepper sauce creates an irresistible meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it with rice, noodles, or a lighter option like lettuce wraps, this dish will always be a hit. Give it a try, and you'll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time!

Print