This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and tasty dish that’s packed with flavor! Juicy chicken pieces are stir-fried with black pepper, garlic, and bell peppers for a simple meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast is great for this dish. You can use thighs for more flavor, they tend to be juicier too. If you need a non-meat option, try tofu or tempeh, cut into similar-sized pieces.
Bell Pepper: A green bell pepper adds a nice crunch. Feel free to swap it with red, yellow, or orange peppers for a sweeter taste. You could also use other veggies like snap peas or broccoli if you prefer.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is key for the flavor. If you like it mild, reduce the amount, or use white pepper for a different twist that’s less pungent.
Garlic and Ginger: Both add essential flavor. You can use garlic powder or ginger powder if you don’t have fresh, but fresh is always better for that punch! If you can’t handle fresh ginger, leave it out or use a bit more garlic.
Oyster Sauce: It’s optional but adds depth to the flavor. You can skip it or replace it with hoisin sauce for a vegetarian option. Soy sauce can also work in a pinch, but the taste will vary.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Stir-Fry?
Stir-frying is quick, so have everything prepped before you start. High heat is essential for that nice sear and rapid cooking.
- Make sure your pan or wok is hot before adding oil. This helps prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if needed. This ensures it browns nicely.
- Add veggies in stages. Start with the chicken, then add tough ones like onions, and finish with softer ones like bell peppers to keep them crisp.
- Keep everything moving! Stir-frying is about quick, high-energy cooking, so use a spatula to mix constantly.
How to Make Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 500g chicken breast, diced
- 1 bell pepper (green), diced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2-3 tablespoons black pepper, freshly ground
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1-2 red chili peppers, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30-40 minutes. You’ll need 20-30 minutes to marinate the chicken and another 10-15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and simple dish that is perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the diced chicken breast with the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), black pepper, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir everything well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 20-30 minutes. This helps to infuse the chicken with flavor and makes it really delicious!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken to the pan. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color. Make sure to stir it occasionally so it cooks evenly.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the sliced bell pepper and onion into the pan with the chicken. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still have a nice crispness to them. They should be colorful and vibrant!
4. Final Seasoning and Garnishing:
Now, taste your dish and add salt or more black pepper if you like it spicier. Finally, garnish with the sliced red chili peppers for a pop of color and a bit of extra heat. Serve your Easy Black Pepper Chicken hot with steaming rice or noodles, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breast for a juicier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Boneless skinless chicken pieces are great for this dish as well!
What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No worries! You can simply omit the oyster sauce, or substitute it with hoisin sauce for a sweeter flavor. If you prefer a different taste, a splash of fish sauce or extra soy sauce can work too—just remember to adjust the saltiness accordingly!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pan over low heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring to ensure even heating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time so all the veggies are tender but not overcooked!
