Best Black Pepper Chicken Recipe | Quick Chicken Dinner

Sizzling Black Pepper Chicken Recipe You’ll Crave Every Week

Looking for a dish that packs a punch, comes together fast, and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas? Look no further than this Black Pepper Chicken recipe! With its vivid, glossy sauce and vibrant veggies, every bite bursts with spicy, savory flavor. Whether you’re an Asian food lover, a home cook after a quick weeknight dinner, or just obsessed with takeout-style meals you can recreate at home, this recipe is about to become your new go-to.

You’ll love how simple it is to make—with everyday ingredients and easy prep—but don’t be fooled, there’s nothing “ordinary” about these bold, peppery flavors. I’ll guide you through substitutions, variations, essential tips, and even the nutritional info, so you whip up a perfect dish every time.

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Why Black Pepper Chicken Belongs on Your Table

If you’ve tried Black Pepper Chicken at Chinese restaurants, you know the magic that happens when juicy chicken, crisp bell peppers, and plenty of freshly ground black pepper hit a sizzling pan. This dish is a classic for good reason:

• It’s quick: You can get Black Pepper Chicken from fridge to table in 30 minutes or less.
• Super customizable: Swap the veggies, choose your protein, dial up (or down) the heat.
• Takeout taste, but healthier: You control the oil and sodium, so indulge guilt-free!

Gather your wok, your spatula, and your appetite. You’re a few steps away from a dinner that will have your family asking for seconds!

Ingredients & Easy Substitutions

Here’s everything you’ll need for perfect Black Pepper Chicken. Don’t stress if you’re missing an ingredient or two; there are plenty of acceptable swaps noted below!

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced into bite-sized pieces (Use tofu for a vegetarian twist or sliced pork for something different!)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (No wine? Skip or use water plus a pinch of sugar.)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Any color bell pepper, or toss in broccoli, snow peas, or carrots based on what’s in your fridge!
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated or minced
• 2 teaspoons coarse, freshly ground black pepper (Pro tip: Grind fresh for maximum aroma!)
• ½ teaspoon ground white pepper (optional)

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Vegetarian? Use mushroom stir-fry sauce.
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
• ¼ cup (60 ml) water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Step-By-Step Instructions for Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

This recipe comes together so quickly you’ll barely have time to set the table! Follow these steps and check out the included image prompts to nail this dish every time.

1. Marinate the Chicken (5 min)

Toss your chicken pieces with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. This keeps the meat tender and juicy. Let it sit while you prep the rest of your ingredients.

2. Mix up the Sauce (2 min): Combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Stir well so it’s ready to go when you need it.

3. Sear the Chicken (5 min): Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large wok or skillet on medium-high. Spread out the chicken pieces and sear until golden, about 2 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry Veggies (3 min): Add the rest of your oil, then toss in onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry until just crisp-tender. You still want a bit of crunch!

5. Bring it All Together (5 min): Add garlic, ginger, and both peppers. Stir-fry 30 seconds, then return chicken to the wok. Pour in the sauce  and stir constantly, letting it bubble and thicken, about 2 minutes.

6. Finish and Serve (2 min): Turn off the heat, drizzle with sesame oil, and give everything a final mix. Serve hot with fluffy steamed rice or noodles.

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Tips, Variations & Serving Suggestions

• Amp up the veggies: Broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn are all welcome additions.
• Heat factor: If you love spice, add sliced chilies or a pinch of chili flakes.
• Sauce consistency: If sauce thickens too much, splash in extra water to loosen.
• Make ahead: Marinate chicken in the morning for extra flavor. Sauce keeps well in the fridge for 3 days.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.

Serving Ideas: 

Serve Black Pepper Chicken over jasmine rice, brown rice, or pour it onto noodles for a saucy stir-fry bowl. Garnish with extra black pepper, sliced scallions, or toasted sesame seeds for color and crunch.

Read More: Mexican Street Corn Chicken Recipe – Full of Flavor & Perfect for Dinner!

Bring a Little Sizzle to Your Dinner Routine

That’s all there is to it! This Black Pepper Chicken recipe shows how easy it is to bring restaurant-worthy flavor home. Its sizzling aroma, bold sauce, and tender chicken will satisfy your takeout cravings and leave you with plenty of happy tummies around your table.

Feel empowered to mix things up, get creative with the veggies or protein, or adjust the pepper for your perfect spice level. Cooking should always be an adventure!

Love trying new recipes or craving more quick chicken dinner ideas? Bookmark this recipe, tag your Black Pepper Chicken creations on social, and check out more Easy Asian Recipes in our recipe archive. 

Happy cooking, and may your dinner be absolutely delicious!

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