This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a tasty and quick dish. It features juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich black pepper sauce that gives it a nice kick!
You won’t believe how fast this comes together—perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re in a hurry! I love serving it over rice for a simple meal that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless chicken thighs as they stay juicier. If you’re looking for a healthier option, boneless chicken breasts work well too. You could also use tofu for a vegetarian version.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is essential for the best flavor. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and gradually add more to suit your taste. White pepper can be a milder alternative.
Soy Sauce: This is key for the savory flavor in the dish. Low-sodium soy sauce is great if you want to reduce salt intake. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth to the dish. If you prefer a vegetarian option, look for mushroom oyster sauce, or omit it altogether without losing too much flavor.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right:
- Cut your chicken into evenly-sized pieces. This helps them cook uniformly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows the chicken to sear and get nice and brown.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Cooking it until golden brown not only enhances the flavor but also keeps it juicy. Enjoying a beautifully cooked chicken is the goal!
Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced (optional)
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1-2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or fresh parsley (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you can have it ready in about 25 minutes total! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot so the chicken browns well!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and sliced onion to the pan. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they’re fragrant and the onions start to soften. If you’re using bell pepper, toss it in and sauté for another 2 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Next, add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and fully cooked through. You can check and make sure they’re no longer pink inside.
4. Add the Black Pepper:
Once your chicken is cooked, sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper over the chicken. Stir everything to coat the pieces well.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and water or chicken broth. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This is when the flavors meld together beautifully. If you want a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional minute.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Now it’s time to taste! Add salt or extra black pepper if needed to suit your flavor preference.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pan from heat and garnish your black pepper chicken with chopped green onions or parsley if you like. Serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles for a delicious meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, easy black pepper chicken! It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ about Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s crucial to thaw it completely before cooking. The best methods are either to leave it in the fridge overnight or to submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water until thawed. Pat the chicken dry to ensure it browns well!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! To add more heat, increase the amount of freshly ground black pepper or add crushed red pepper flakes. You could also include a sliced chili pepper during the sautéing process for extra spice.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly; firmer veggies may need a bit more sautéing time to soften.