This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a delicious stir-fry with juicy chicken pieces and a peppery kick. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights!
I love how the black pepper adds a nice zing to the dish. Serve it over rice, and you’re in for a treat! Plus, it’s so easy, even my dog thinks he could cook it! 🐶
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This is the main protein in the dish. You can substitute it with boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper gives the dish a robust flavor. If you don’t have black pepper, white pepper can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be milder.
Soy Sauce: It adds umami, but if you’re avoiding soy, consider using coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option. I’ve found that each adds its own unique flavor.
Vegetable Oil: This is used for frying. You could substitute with sesame oil for a different taste, but just use it sparingly as it has a strong flavor.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These add crunch and sweetness. Feel free to use other veggies like zucchini or broccoli if you prefer. I like adding carrots for color and crunch!
How Can You Perfectly Marinate Your Chicken?
Marinating your chicken is key to flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken absorbs all those delicious tastes:
- Combine the diced chicken with black pepper, soy sauce, and oyster sauce in a bowl.
- Letting it sit for at least 15 minutes—30 minutes is even better! You can refrigerate it for more depth of flavor.
- Don’t be afraid to add other spices or herbs to the marinade for extra flavor, like a dash of sesame oil or some chili flakes for heat.
How to Make Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 500g chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons black pepper, freshly cracked
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red chili, sliced (optional, for heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 15-20 minutes for cooking. Total time is around 30-35 minutes, making this a quick and tasty meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken breast with freshly cracked black pepper, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up all the yummy flavors!
2. Heat the Oil:
While the chicken is marinating, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to cook the chicken well.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned. This gives it a lovely color and flavor!
4. Add Aromatics:
Next, add the minced garlic, minced ginger, and sliced onion to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes nice and translucent. This will fill your kitchen with amazing smells!
5. Add Vegetables:
Now, it’s time to add the diced green bell pepper and sliced red chili (if you like some heat). Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper is tender but still crisp. You want it to be bright and colorful!
6. Adjust Seasoning:
Before you finish up, taste the dish. If you think it needs a bit more seasoning, you can add some salt or a sprinkle of sugar to balance out the flavors. Mix it well!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked and well mixed, serve your black pepper chicken hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if you like. Enjoy it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Happy eating!
Can I Use Different Meats Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with pork, beef, or even tofu. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the meat you choose; for beef or pork, aim for a similar cooking time as chicken, while tofu may need a bit less time to get a nice golden texture.
How to Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more sliced red chili or even some chili flakes to the marinade. For an in-depth flavor, you can incorporate some Sriracha or a splash of hot sauce towards the end of cooking!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and chop all the vegetables a day ahead. Store them in separate containers in the fridge. Just make sure to cook everything fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave it for a quick option, stirring halfway through.
