Looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner recipe with chicken? This easy black pepper chicken is the perfect choice! Made with tender chicken bites, crisp bell peppers, and a bold black pepper sauce, this dish is a restaurant-quality meal you can whip up in 30 minutes or less.
Whether you’re craving a pepper chicken stir-fry for a busy weeknight or need a healthy dinner that’s packed with protein and flavor, this black pepper chicken is sure to satisfy. Skip the takeout and make this homemade version that’s just as tasty—but fresher and healthier!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
This black pepper chicken is:
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Full of Bold Flavors – The black pepper sauce is rich, savory, and slightly spicy.
- Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make extra and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
- Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level or swap in your favorite veggies.
Ingredients for Easy Black Pepper Chicken
To make this black pepper chicken, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
For the Black Pepper Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color and depth)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (or brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup (60ml) water
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this black pepper chicken, you’ll need:
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Large skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Black Pepper Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces, soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Black Pepper Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauces, rice vinegar, honey, cornstarch, water, and black pepper. Set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another teaspoon of oil. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and onion, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the red and green bell peppers and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the black pepper sauce. Stir well and let it simmer for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Turn off the heat and serve the black pepper chicken hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or stir-fried noodles. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken
- Use freshly ground black pepper – It makes a big difference in flavor compared to pre-ground pepper.
- Don’t overcook the chicken – Stir-fry it just until golden to keep it juicy.
- Keep the vegetables slightly crisp – This adds great texture to the dish.
- Make it spicier – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or extra black pepper.
Fun Variations of Black Pepper Chicken
- Make it a Low-Carb Dish – Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Add More Vegetables – Try mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Turn It Into Chicken Stuffed Peppers – Stuff the cooked black pepper chicken into halved bell peppers and bake for a unique twist!
How to Store and Keep Your Black Pepper Chicken Fresh
To store leftovers:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
Serving Ideas and Presentation Tips
- Serve on a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice.
- Garnish with sliced green onions for extra freshness.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Black Pepper Chicken
- Using too little black pepper – The dish gets its signature flavor from bold black pepper, so don’t be afraid to use a full tablespoon.
- Overcrowding the pan – Cook the chicken in batches if needed to get a nice sear.
- Skipping the cornstarch – It helps thicken the sauce and gives the chicken a velvety texture.
Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Black Pepper Chicken
- Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a classic pairing.
- Garlic stir-fried green beans for extra greens.
- Egg drop soup as a light side dish.
FAQ Section
1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute tofu or mushrooms for the chicken and follow the same steps.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness to the dish.
3. What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
You can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
This easy black pepper chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves quick, healthy dinner recipes with chicken. It’s packed with bold flavors, easy to make, and perfect for weeknights.
Try this black pepper chicken recipe and let us know how it turned out! Share your creations on social media and tag us. Don’t forget to subscribe for more healthy dinner recipes and delicious meal ideas!
PrintEasy Black Pepper Chicken : A Flavorful and Healthy Dinner Recipe
Looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner recipe with chicken? This easy black pepper chicken is the perfect choice!
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
For the Black Pepper Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color and depth)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (or brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup (60ml) water
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces, soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Black Pepper Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauces, rice vinegar, honey, cornstarch, water, and black pepper. Set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another teaspoon of oil. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and onion, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the red and green bell peppers and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the black pepper sauce. Stir well and let it simmer for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Turn off the heat and serve the black pepper chicken hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or stir-fried noodles. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use freshly ground black pepper – It makes a big difference in flavor compared to pre-ground pepper.
- Don’t overcook the chicken – Stir-fry it just until golden to keep it juicy.
- Keep the vegetables slightly crisp – This adds great texture to the dish.
- Make it spicier – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or extra black pepper.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 35g
Keywords: Easy Black Pepper Chicken