Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

This Black Pepper Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. With its spicy kick from black pepper and a savory sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Bold Flavor – The black pepper gives a robust, zesty flavor that’s the star of the dish.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔ Customizable – Adjust the heat level to suit your taste by adding more or less black pepper.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make it in advance for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, to thicken the sauce)
• 2–3 tbsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon for stirring

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir into the sauce mixture.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Add the freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste. Stir well and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 3–4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the chicken is coated.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the Black Pepper Chicken with chopped green onions and serve immediately over steamed rice or alongside sautéed vegetables.

What to Serve with Black Pepper Chicken

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – A classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
• Sautéed Vegetables – Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas make great sides.
• Noodles – Serve with stir-fried noodles for a satisfying meal.

Tips for Success

✔ Adjust the Spice – For more heat, add extra black pepper or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
✔ Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper provides the best flavor.
✔ Use Thin Chicken Slices – Thin chicken pieces cook faster and absorb the sauce better.

Storing & Reheating

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave or reheat on the stovetop with a little splash of water to prevent drying out.
• Freeze: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will work just as well and are a bit juicier.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.

Can I make the sauce spicier?
Yes! Add more black pepper, or even a splash of hot sauce or chili paste for an extra kick.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – based on 4 servings):
Calories: 250 | Carbs: 10g | Fat: 13g | Protein: 26g | Sodium: 900mg

This Black Pepper Chicken is packed with flavor, super quick to make, and perfect for a weeknight meal that everyone will love!

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