Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Black Pepper Chicken is a bold and flavorful stir-fry dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a savory, slightly spicy black pepper sauce. With a balance of umami, heat, and a touch of sweetness, this dish is a takeout favorite that’s quick and easy to recreate at home. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breast or thighssoy saucesesame oilcornstarchvegetable oilonionbell peppersgarlicfresh ground black pepperoysters saucebrown sugar

directions

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 15–20 minutes.

Heat vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and sauté chopped garlic and onions until fragrant.

Add sliced bell peppers and stir-fry for a couple of minutes until slightly tender.

Return the chicken to the pan.

In a small bowl, mix oyster sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.

Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until everything is well-coated and heated through.

Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 3–4 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 10–12 minutesTotal time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.

Add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra vegetables.

Adjust the amount of black pepper to your spice preference.

Swap oyster sauce for hoisin if you prefer a sweeter sauce.

Top with green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much when reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, add chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies for extra heat.

What type of soy sauce should I use?

Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness, but regular works fine too.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

It adds depth and umami, but you can substitute with hoisin or soy sauce if needed.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before stir-frying to avoid excess moisture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and check the label on your oyster sauce to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Can I meal prep Black Pepper Chicken?

Absolutely. Cook in advance and store in individual containers with rice for easy grab-and-go meals.

What’s the best pepper to use?

Freshly ground coarse black pepper offers the best flavor and a punchy kick.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Yes, grilled chicken adds a smoky layer of flavor. Toss it in the sauce after grilling.

What’s the best way to get crispy chicken?

Make sure the pan is hot and avoid overcrowding. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and adjust cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for anyone craving a hearty, homemade stir-fry with a spicy kick. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, it’s sure to become a go-to meal in your weekly rotation. Whether served over rice or noodles, it delivers satisfying comfort with every bite.