This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a tasty dish made with juicy chicken and a kick of black pepper. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for a busy dinner night!
You can serve it with warm rice or noodles for a fulfilling meal. I love how just one dish can pack so much flavor without much fuss. It’s a winner in my kitchen every time! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken breast or thighs work well for this dish. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner. If you need a substitute, try tofu for a vegetarian option or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper gives the best flavor. If you’re out, white pepper can be used, though it’s milder. You could also try a flavored pepper blend if you want to experiment!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is preferred since it packs a punch. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but use about a third of the amount. Minced garlic brings a lovely aroma to the dish, something I always look forward to!
Sauces: Soy sauce adds umami and depth, while oyster sauce adds richness. If you’re vegetarian, look for mushroom sauce as an excellent substitute for oyster sauce.
Vegetables: Onions add sweetness, and the green bell pepper brings a nice crunch. Feel free to swap for red or yellow peppers, or even use snap peas or broccoli for a different flavor and texture!
How Do I Get My Chicken Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken correctly can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you out. It’s best to cook the chicken on high heat so it sears nicely and stays juicy.
- Make sure your pan or wok is hot before adding oil. This will help prevent sticking and give the chicken a nice color.
- Add the chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of frying.
- Stir-fry quickly to seal in those juices. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside, about 6-8 minutes.
- If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
With these tips in mind, your Black Pepper Chicken will turn out perfectly every time! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 500 grams chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon black pepper, coarsely crushed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10-15 minutes for marinating the chicken and about 15 minutes for cooking and assembly. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a delightful dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by putting the bite-sized chicken pieces in a bowl. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, salt, and half of the crushed black pepper. Mix everything well and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes. This step helps the chicken soak up all those yummy flavors!
2. Heat the Oil:
While the chicken is marinating, pour the vegetable oil into a pan or wok. Turn the heat up to medium-high. It’s important to get the oil nice and hot for perfect stir-frying!
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Once the oil is hot, toss in the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté them until they become fragrant and the onions are translucent. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes and adds a lovely aroma to your dish!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Now, add the marinated chicken to the pan. Stir-fry it on high heat until the chicken is cooked through and slightly golden, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Keep stirring to make sure it cooks evenly!
5. Add Peppers and Remaining Pepper:
If you’re using green bell pepper slices, add them now along with the rest of the crushed black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes. This step will bring in some freshness and crunch!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste. If you think it needs a bit more seasoning, feel free to add a pinch more salt or black pepper!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your Black Pepper Chicken with the chopped green onions. Serve it hot alongside steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Enjoy your delightful and easy Black Pepper Chicken dinner! It’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great choice for this dish. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for easy cooking!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes, if you like some heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chilies when sautéing the garlic and onions. This will give your Black Pepper Chicken an extra spicy kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in advance—do this up to 24 hours ahead and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the remaining steps. It’s a great time-saver!
