Black Pepper Chicken

Name: Black Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced; 1 tablespoon light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry sherry); 2 tablespoons peanut oil; 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 bell peppers, chopped; 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper

Published: August 4, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a speedy dinner solution.
Flavor Packed: The combination of ginger, garlic, and coarsely ground black pepper creates an irresistible taste that rivals your favorite takeout.
Versatile Ingredients: Use chicken breasts or thighs and any colorful bell peppers you have on hand for a personalized touch.
Healthy Option: With lean protein and fresh vegetables, this recipe is a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily swap soy sauce with tamari and apple vinegar with dry sherry for a gluten-free version.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Medium-sized bowl
Small bowl
Spatula
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Ideal for searing chicken evenly while allowing space for vegetables to stir-fry without overcrowding.
Spatula: Essential for flipping the chicken and mixing ingredients without damaging them.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced against the grain into 1/4” (5-mm) thick pieces
1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
2 tablespoons Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry sherry)
2 teaspoons dark soy sauce (or 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 (I used mixed colors)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine the chicken, light soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl. Gently mix by hand until the chicken is coated with a thin layer of the mixture. Marinate for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken. Spread it into a single layer using a spatula with minimal overlap. Sear for about one minute until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 30 seconds to one minute until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Introduce minced ginger and garlic; stir until fragrant. Add chopped white onion and bell peppers, stirring continuously for about 20 seconds.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Stir the prepared sauce mixture until the cornstarch is fully dissolved before pouring it into the skillet. Stir immediately with a spatula as you cook until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon—this should take just a few seconds. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring quickly to coat everything in that delicious black pepper sauce. Turn off the heat and remove from stovetop.

Step 6: Serve

Immediately transfer everything to a large serving plate so that all ingredients are served hot without overcooking in residual heat from the skillet. Enjoy your homemade Black Pepper Chicken!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, there are many options to enhance your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

Steamed white or brown rice acts as a perfect base for the savory black pepper sauce, soaking up all the flavors.

With Noodles

Serve your black pepper chicken over lo mein or rice noodles for a delightful twist on traditional stir-fry.

In Lettuce Wraps

For a lighter option, spoon the chicken mixture into fresh lettuce leaves. This adds a satisfying crunch and freshness.

Alongside Stir-Fried Vegetables

Pair your dish with an assortment of colorful stir-fried vegetables for added nutrients and texture.

As Part of a Chinese Feast

Include black pepper chicken in a larger spread featuring dumplings, spring rolls, and fried rice for a delicious Chinese-themed dinner.

With a Simple Salad

A refreshing cucumber or mixed greens salad complements the rich flavors of the chicken, balancing out the meal.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

To achieve the best results with Black Pepper Chicken, consider these tips to enhance flavor and texture.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will add aromatic depth to your dish.
Marinate properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes improves flavor absorption.
Cook in batches: If making a larger quantity, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning and avoid steaming.
Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of black pepper according to your taste preferences for more heat or milder flavor.
Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooked chicken can become dry. Aim for tender pieces that are just cooked through.
Add vegetables last: Incorporating vegetables during the final stages helps retain their crispness and color.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Black Pepper Chicken can elevate your meal further. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Fried Rice: A classic choice that absorbs flavors beautifully while adding texture.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crunchy and filled with fresh vegetables, these are great for an appetizer.
Egg Fried Rice: Egg adds protein and richness, complementing the flavors of the chicken perfectly.
Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious option adds vibrant color and balances out the meal’s richness.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy dressing can cleanse the palate between bites.
Wonton Soup: A warm soup starter that pairs well with any Chinese-inspired main dish.

Enjoy crafting your delicious Black Pepper Chicken meal!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

Using the wrong cut of chicken: Always choose tender cuts like breast or thighs. Tough cuts can lead to a chewy texture.
Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Allow at least 10-15 minutes for the best taste.
Not controlling the heat: Cooking on too high heat can burn the garlic and ginger. Keep it medium-high for even cooking.
Overcrowding the skillet: When cooking chicken, don’t overcrowd the pan. This prevents proper browning and sizzling.
Neglecting to stir the sauce: Ensure you stir the sauce mixture well before adding it to the skillet. This avoids clumps from cornstarch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce and dry sherry instead of Shaoxing apple vinegar.

What vegetables can I add to Black Pepper Chicken?

Feel free to add snap peas, broccoli, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.

How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?

The spiciness comes from coarsely ground black pepper, but you can adjust it according to your preference by adding less.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, shrimp, or tofu if you’re looking for alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen. It’s quick to prepare and offers endless customization options. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or proteins! Try this recipe today and enjoy a tasty meal that’s sure to impress!

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