If you are craving a dish that brings bold flavors and a bit of spicy kick to your dinner table, look no further than this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe. It combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with the aromatic punch of freshly ground black pepper and a rich, savory sauce that’s beautifully balanced with hints of sweetness and umami. This recipe is straightforward enough for a weekday meal but impressive enough to share with friends or family on any occasion. Once you try this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe, it just might become your go-to comfort food that never fails to satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, accessible ingredients come together in this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe to create a dish that bursts with flavor and texture. Each element adds its own unique note, from the tender chicken to the crunchy bell peppers and the luscious sauce that ties everything perfectly.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Offers juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender during cooking.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings salty, savory depth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a rich umami boost that elevates the dish.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Provides a subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce to a velvety consistency.
- 2 tablespoons water: Used to mix with the cornstarch to create a smooth slurry.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Perfect for stir-frying and bringing everything together.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 onion, chopped: Offers a mild sweetness and aromatic base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with pungent, warm flavor.
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (more to taste): The star ingredient that gives this recipe its signature peppery bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Balances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- Optional: green onions for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh sharpness.
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, freshly ground black pepper, and the cornstarch mixed with water in a small bowl. This mixture will create that glossy, luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken and vegetables.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, then toss in the chicken pieces. Stir-fry them until they are nicely browned on all sides and cooked through, which usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside so we can move onto the next step without overcooking.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pan, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften slightly but still retain their crunch and vibrant color. Then add the minced garlic and cook everything together for just about 30 seconds to release its wonderful aroma without burning.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the top and stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes; this allows the sauce to thicken and fully infuse the dish with its robust, peppery flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if you need more black pepper or salt.
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly sliced green onions on top not only adds a lovely pop of color but also a fresh, crisp flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce. If you love an extra touch of heat, a few red pepper flakes can also brighten this dish.
Side Dishes
This Black Pepper Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed white jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a more wholesome meal, try serving it alongside sautéed or steamed greens like bok choy or broccoli. Noodles also work superbly if you want to mix things up.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special meal, present the chicken on a large platter garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Surround the dish with slices of fresh cucumber or cherry tomatoes to add fresh color and crunch. You can also serve it in individual bowls garnished with cilantro for a fresh herbal kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually meld more deeply after resting, making for delightful next-day meals.
Freezing
This dish freezes well. Place cooled chicken and some sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip bag, and freeze for up to one month. Be sure to leave some headspace as the sauce may expand during freezing.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce needs loosening. Avoid microwaving for best texture; a slow reheat will keep the chicken tender and the sauce vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more juiciness, chicken breast can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook it, as breast meat tends to dry out faster.
How spicy is this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe?
The spice level primarily comes from the freshly ground black pepper, giving it a warm, peppery heat that’s not overpowering. You can always add more black pepper or red chili flakes if you want a spicier punch.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to toss in vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to boost the nutrition and colorful appeal. Just add them during the vegetable sauté step, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Check that your oyster and hoisin sauces are gluten-free as well, or opt for homemade versions.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce or avoid seafood products, you can substitute with a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of mushroom sauce or hoisin sauce to maintain the savory depth.
Final Thoughts
This Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is a vibrant, satisfying dish that’s surprisingly easy to make but brimming with complex flavors. Whether you are cooking a quick weeknight dinner or aiming to impress your loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch how this peppery, saucy chicken steals the show!
Print
Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Description
A flavorful and easy Asian-inspired Black Pepper Chicken stir-fry featuring tender bite-sized chicken thighs cooked with green bell pepper, onion, garlic, and a savory sauce made from soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner served over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Cooking
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Optional: green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, freshly ground black pepper, and cornstarch mixed with water until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine and finish: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour the prepared sauce over the ingredients. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken evenly.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning by adding more black pepper or salt if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice and garnish with green onions if using.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast if preferred.
- Add broccoli or snap peas for extra vegetables and nutritional value.
- For extra heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.
