Easy Black Pepper Chicken

Name: Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb (454 g) chicken breasts or thighs, sliced against the grain into 1/4” (5-mm) thick pieces; 1 tablespoon light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons light soy sauce; 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry); 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar; 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil); 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 white onion, chopped; 2 bell peppers, chopped (use mixed colors for variety)

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A Simple, Takeout-Style Dish You Can Master at Home

When I first started cooking, Chinese stir-fries seemed intimidating. The sizzling wok, the fast-paced cooking, and the perfectly balanced sauces felt like something only restaurant chefs could master. But then I discovered black pepper chicken —a dish that is incredibly easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for a beginner’s first stir-fry experience.

Black pepper chicken is not just delicious; it’s also a one-pan meal filled with lean protein and colorful vegetables. Unlike takeout, this homemade version is fresher, healthier, and just as satisfying. Plus, it comes together in about 25 minutes, making it a perfect option for a busy weeknight dinner.

Why This Recipe is Special

Beginner-Friendly: The technique is simple, and with a few key tips, anyone can master it.
Quick and Easy: Cooks in under 10 minutes once everything is prepped.
Healthier than Takeout: Less oil, sodium, and sugar compared to restaurant versions.

Customizable: You can switch up the protein or vegetables based on what you have.

Ingredients and Their Role in the Dish

This recipe uses pantry-friendly ingredients, many of which you might already have.

Key Ingredients

Chicken (Breasts or Thighs) – The star of the dish, providing lean protein. Thighs stay juicier, but breasts cook faster.

Black Pepper – The defining ingredient, adding warmth, spice, and deep aroma.
Soy Sauce – A key umami booster that enhances flavor. Use light soy sauce for saltiness and dark soy sauce for depth.
Garlic and Ginger – The aromatic base that adds fragrance and complexity.

Bell Peppers and Onion – Add crunch, color, and sweetness to balance the bold sauce.
Cornstarch – Used to marinate the chicken for a tender texture and to thicken the sauce.
Chicken Broth – Forms the base of the sauce, infusing extra savory depth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef.
Vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms make great additions.
Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free version.

Shaoxing Wine: Substitute with dry sherry or skip it entirely.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before turning on the stove, chop the chicken, bell peppers, and onion. Mince the garlic and ginger. Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, coat the chicken with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. This step ensures juicy, tender chicken.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Spread the chicken in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 30 seconds before flipping. Cook until lightly browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil. Stir-fry the garlic and ginger for a few seconds until fragrant. Toss in the onions and bell peppers. Stir for about 30 seconds—they should stay crisp.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Give the sauce a quick stir and pour it into the pan. Let it thicken slightly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet and mix well. Cook for another minute until the chicken is cooked through and coated in sauce. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.

Beginner Tips and Notes

1. How to Keep the Chicken Juicy

Slice against the grain for tender pieces.
Marinating with cornstarch and soy sauce locks in moisture.

Avoid overcooking—remove the chicken while slightly underdone, then finish cooking in the sauce.

2. Stir-Fry Like a Pro

Have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking—stir-fries move fast!
Use high heat to get that signature restaurant-style sear.

Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.

3. How to Adjust Spice Level

For extra heat, add chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies.
For milder flavor, reduce the black pepper slightly.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with:

Steamed Rice – Jasmine or brown rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
Fried Rice – For a more indulgent pairing, serve it with homemade fried rice.

Noodles – Toss the chicken over stir-fried noodles for a complete meal.

Leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge or 1 month in the freezer. Reheat gently to keep the chicken tender.

Final Thoughts: Try This Easy Stir-Fry Tonight

Black pepper chicken is one of those dishes that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a quick, healthy meal, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.

Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! What vegetables did you use? Did you tweak the spice level? Drop a comment below and share your experience.

Happy cooking!

FAQ About Black Pepper Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they stay juicier and more flavorful than breasts. Just make sure to cut them into even pieces for even cooking.

How do I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of black pepper or use a milder variety. You can also balance the spice by adding a touch of honey or extra soy sauce.

What vegetables can I substitute for bell peppers?

You can use broccoli, snap peas, carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.

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