Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors but surprisingly simple to make, this Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner. Tender chicken cubes coated in a peppery, savory sauce paired with crisp vegetables will have your taste buds dancing in delight. It’s the perfect blend of spicy and savory with a touch of sweet, making it an irresistible meal for weeknight dinners or whenever you want to impress without the fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients list. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color that brings the dish to life. From the juicy chicken to the aromatic spices and the vibrant bell peppers, every ingredient sings in harmony.

• 500 grams skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-size cubes to ensure quick, even cooking.
• 2 tablespoons peanut oil: Ideal for stir-frying because of its high smoke point and mild flavor.
• Salt: Used to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and balance the seasoning.
• 2 medium onions: Cut into 1-inch cubes to add sweetness and a slight crunch.
• 1 large green bell pepper: Also cut into 1-inch cubes, offering a fresh, crisp contrast to the tender chicken.
• ½ teaspoon minced garlic: Adds deep, savory undertones.
• ½ teaspoon minced ginger: Brings a warm, slightly peppery kick to the dish.
• 1 fresh chili (red or green): Chopped finely to provide a subtle heat that complements the black pepper.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps create a delicate coating that locks in moisture and gives a slight crispness.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a sharp, fragrant heat during marination.
• For the sauce: ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper combined with light and dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, cornstarch, and water or chicken broth — this blend packs the perfect punch.

How to Make Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Black Pepper Sauce

Begin by whisking together the freshly ground black pepper with rice vinegar, light and dark soy sauces, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, cornstarch, and water or chicken broth until smooth and lump-free. This sauce is the magic behind the bold and layered flavor of the dish, so take a moment to blend it well for a silky finish.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Coat your chicken cubes evenly with one tablespoon of the prepared sauce, two tablespoons of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Let it rest while you chop your onions, bell peppers, garlic, ginger, and chili. This quick marinating step is essential for juicy, tender chicken that soaks up the delicious peppery notes.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of peanut oil in a large pan until shimmering. Add the chicken cubes in a single layer to avoid overcrowding and cook over medium flame until golden on one side. Flip to brown the other side, cooking until the meat is nearly done but still juicy. Remove and set aside, making sure to cook in batches if necessary to maintain that perfect sear.

Step 4: Stir Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, then sauté the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped chili for about 30 seconds — this releases their aromas instantly. Toss in the cubed onions and bell peppers, stirring quickly over high heat until they are crisp yet tender, adding a fresh, crunchy texture to contrast the silky sauce and chicken.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Lower the heat to the gentlest flame and give the sauce a quick whisk to recombine the cornstarch. Pour the sauce into the vegetables and let it simmer for about 30 seconds until slightly thickened. Return the chicken to the pan and toss everything together gently so the sauce coats all the pieces beautifully and the dish warms through perfectly.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle a fresh grind of black pepper over the entire dish for an extra kick. Give it one last stir and serve immediately for a tantalizing meal that bursts with savory, spicy goodness in every bite.

How to Serve Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Simplicity shines here. A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or a few toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and pop of color. If you love a bit of freshness, a wedge of lime on the side can elevate the brightness and cut through the intensity of the pepper sauce.

Side Dishes

This Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up that beautiful sauce. For a lighter option, serve it alongside steamed or lightly sautéed greens like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas to keep the whole meal vibrant and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your black pepper chicken layered atop a bowl of noodles or rice in a deep dish for a cozy, comforting presentation. You can also toss it with stir-fried rice for a quick black pepper chicken fried rice variation. For a fun party twist, try serving it in lettuce cups for handheld, flavorful bites that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and the chicken tender. Always cool it before storing to maintain the perfect texture and avoid sogginess.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely but keep in mind the vegetables may lose some of their crispness. Freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the vegetables if you want to keep the texture intact. Use airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and try to consume within 2 months for the best taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If thawed from frozen, allow the dish to come to room temperature first, then warm it slowly to keep the chicken juicy and avoid drying out the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken tough and the sauce unevenly heated.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more juiciness and a slight richness to the dish thanks to their higher fat content. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs take a bit longer to cook through.

Is the Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe very spicy?

The spice level is moderate, mostly from the black pepper and fresh chili. You can easily adjust the amount of chili or omit it if you prefer a milder meal without losing the wonderful peppery flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the light and dark soy sauce with tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Just be sure to check the rest of your ingredients for hidden gluten sources.

What’s the best way to grind black pepper for this recipe?

Freshly ground black pepper really makes a difference. Use a pepper mill or a mortar and pestle for the best aroma and flavor. Avoid using pre-ground pepper as it tends to be less potent.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can marinate the chicken up to two hours in advance and chop all your vegetables beforehand. This prep will make the entire cooking process quick and seamless, perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the burst of flavor and ease packed into this Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish delivers satisfaction with every bite. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation – I promise it’ll bring joy to your table and inspire you to cook with confidence and excitement.

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