This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and tasty dinner idea! Tender chicken is cooked with a zesty black pepper sauce that brings out all the flavors. It’s spicy but not too much!
You can serve it with rice or noodles for a full meal. Perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen! I love how simple it is—just stir-fry and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless chicken thighs are my favorite for this dish because they stay juicy and tender. However, you can use chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand.
Vegetable Oil: You can swap out vegetable oil for olive oil or sesame oil for added flavor. Just remember, sesame oil has a stronger taste, so use it sparingly!
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives the best flavor. If you want less spice, reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon. You can also try white pepper for a different taste.
Oyster Sauce: If you need a vegetarian option, use mushroom sauce instead. It gives a similar umami flavor without the seafood.
Green Bell Pepper: Feel free to substitute with any pepper you like, such as red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter flavor. You can even skip it altogether if you prefer just chicken.
How Can I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right is key to this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot pan to sear the chicken—this locks in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary so each piece browns nicely.
- Cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside—about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken before it’s fully cooked as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
Follow these tips, and your chicken will be tender and bursting with flavor!
Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1-2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt to taste
- Spring onions or chopped cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and easy recipe will take about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You will need about 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook until they start to brown and are mostly cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Then, sauté the sliced onion until it becomes translucent. After that, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook everything together for about another minute, until it’s fragrant.
3. Adding the Flavors:
Next, stir in the freshly ground black pepper and cook for about 30 seconds to let the aroma develop. Then, return the chicken to the skillet.
4. Combining the Sauces:
Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and water or chicken broth. Stir everything well to combine. This will create a delicious sauce that the chicken will absorb.
5. Cooking the Vegetables:
If you’re using green bell pepper, add the sliced pieces now. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. You want the pepper to soften slightly but still stay crisp.
6. Thickening the Sauce (Optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water and cook for an additional minute until thickened to your liking.
7. Final Touches:
Finally, taste your dish and adjust the salt or pepper as necessary. Once everything is to your liking, garnish with chopped spring onions or cilantro.
8. Serving:
Serve your delicious black pepper chicken hot with steaming rice or noodles on the side. Enjoy your flavorful and easy dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a leaner option and will work perfectly in this recipe. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs. Aim for 5-6 minutes of cooking time.
What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute oyster sauce with soy sauce for a vegetarian option or use hoisin sauce for a sweeter flavor. Alternatively, a mix of soy sauce and a hint of sugar can also work as a replacement.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
For sure! If you like it spicy, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the dish while cooking. Adjust to your heat preference, starting with a small amount and tasting as you go!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little water to keep the chicken moist.
