This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is simple and tasty! Tender chicken is coated in a delicious sauce with a zesty kick from black pepper. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
I love how quick this dish comes together. Just a few ingredients and you’re all set to impress your family! Plus, it pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless chicken thighs are my favorite for this recipe as they stay juicy and tender. If you’d prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work great too. For a twist, try tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version!
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper brings out the best flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount based on how much heat you like! If you want a milder flavor, try using white pepper instead.
Oyster Sauce: This sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor. If you are vegetarian, look for mushroom oyster sauce or soy sauce as an alternative. You could also skip it and add a little extra soy sauce.
Vegetables: I like the crunch of bell peppers in this dish. You can switch it up with other veggies like broccoli, snow peas, or carrots to add color and nutrients.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
The key to juicy chicken is not to overcook it. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a hot pan to sear the chicken quickly, which locks in moisture.
- Cook the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking; don’t crowd the pan.
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; chicken should be 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.
- Let it rest a minute after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before serving.
These steps will help you achieve tender and flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy cooking this dish!
Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 500g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Spring onions or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Black Pepper Chicken can be prepared in about 25 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, and another 15 minutes cooking everything in one pan. Quick, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering before moving on to the next step.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and sliced onion to the skillet. Sauté them together until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned on the outside and cooked through.
4. Mix in the Sauces:
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Mix everything well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the sauces.
5. Add Vegetables and Broth:
If you’re using green bell pepper, add it to the pan now. Pour in the water or chicken broth, which will create a light sauce. Stir everything to combine.
6. Season with Black Pepper:
Sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper over the chicken mixture. Stir well and adjust the amount of black pepper to your taste, depending on how spicy you like it!
7. Reduce the Sauce:
Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce slightly while stirring frequently, about 3-5 minutes. This helps to enhance the flavors.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your dish and add salt if needed to balance out the flavors.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with chopped spring onions for a fresh touch. Serve your hot Black Pepper Chicken with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Black Pepper Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While green bell pepper adds a nice crunch, you can substitute it with other veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. Just make sure to cook them until they’re tender, as cooking times may vary.
What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No problem! You can either omit it or substitute it with an equal amount of soy sauce mixed with a splash of vinegar for depth. For a vegetarian option, use mushroom sauce!
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Definitely! If you like spicy dishes, you can add red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers along with the garlic and onion. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
