This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and tasty dish! Juicy chicken is cooked with a sprinkle of black pepper for a nice kick, bringing out great flavors without any fuss.
I love whipping this up on busy nights. It’s super simple and pairs well with rice or veggies. Plus, with just a few spices, you don’t need a full pantry to make it! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Cubed boneless chicken breast works great here, but you could also use thigh meat for extra juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian dish.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth to the dish. If you’re avoiding gluten, opt for tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce. Coconut aminos are another excellent alternative for a sweeter flavor.
Oyster Sauce: It gives a unique richness to the dish. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, look for mushroom-based stir-fry sauces or simply leave it out and add a bit more soy sauce.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is key for that signature heat. If you want to switch it up, try white pepper for a different flavor profile, though it’s not as pronounced.
Bell Peppers: Green bell peppers are preferred for their crunchiness, but red or yellow peppers work too for added sweetness and color. You could even mix in some other veggies like broccoli or snap peas!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Getting tender and juicy chicken in a stir-fry can be tricky! Here are some tips to help you out:
- Always cube your chicken pieces evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to allow for browning.
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; it should sizzle when you add the meat.
- Marinating the chicken not only adds flavor but also helps keep it juicy while cooking.
How to Make Easy Black Pepper Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 500 grams chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground
- Salt, to taste
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (green preferred)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1-2 red chilies, sliced (optional, adjust to taste)
- Spring onions, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-30 minutes for marinating the chicken and around 10-15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need about 30-45 minutes to make this delicious dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken, soy sauce, oyster sauce, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together well and let it sit for at least 15-30 minutes. This will help the chicken soak up all the tasty flavors!
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for frying the chicken evenly.
3. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until you can smell that delicious aroma—it should be fragrant but not burnt!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Now, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure there’s no pink left inside!
5. Add Vegetables:
Toss in the sliced onion and bell pepper. Stir-fry everything together for another 3-4 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender but still a bit crisp for some great texture.
6. Spice It Up:
If you like a little heat, stir in the sliced red chilies at this point. Feel free to add more black pepper if you want it spicier! Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pan from heat and, if you like, sprinkle chopped spring onions on top for some fresh bite. Serve the hot black pepper chicken over rice or noodles, and enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Instead of Breast?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. Make sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Adjust cooking time to about 20-25 minutes, then add the vegetables to the skillet and continue with the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?
If you need a substitute for oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce with a little sugar to mimic the sweetness. Alternatively, vegetarian stir-fry sauces are also a great option if you’re looking for a plant-based version.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the spice level, you can add more red chilies or even include a dash of chili flakes during cooking. For an extra kick, try adding some Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce just before serving!
