Black Pepper Chicken

Black pepper chicken is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful stir-fry that brings bold, peppery spice and tender, juicy chicken together in a rich, savory sauce. This dish is a staple in many Chinese takeout menus, but the homemade version is fresher, healthier, and just as delicious—if not better.

With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time (under 30 minutes), black pepper chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving Chinese takeout without the extra sodium and preservatives. Plus, you can easily customize it to fit your dietary preferences, whether you need a gluten-free, low-carb, or keto-friendly version.

Unlike many stir-fry dishes that rely on sugary sauces, black pepper chicken gets its deep, complex flavor from freshly ground black pepper, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. The high heat stir-fry technique ensures the chicken stays juicy while developing a slight char that enhances its taste. Trust me, once you try making this at home, you’ll never go back to takeout again!

Black Pepper Chicken Ingredients

Black Pepper Chicken Marinade Ingredients

For a juicy, tender texture, marinate the chicken before stir-frying.

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry; for a non-alcoholic substitute, use chicken broth)
• 1 tsp cornstarch (helps tenderize the chicken)
• 1/2 tsp white pepper (adds a subtle depth to the marinade)
• 1 tsp sesame oil (enhances the umami flavor)

Black Pepper Chicken Sauce Ingredients

The key to bold flavor lies in this black pepper-infused sauce.

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp dark soy sauce (for deep color and umami)
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, but enhances flavor)
• 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 tsp rice vinegar (adds slight tanginess to balance the flavors)

Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry Ingredients

These ingredients add crunch and extra flavor.

• 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or peanut oil works best for high heat)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
• 1/2 tsp salt (optional, adjust based on soy sauce sodium levels)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (for an extra kick)

Black Pepper Chicken Ingredient Variations

• Gluten-free option: Replace soy sauce with tamari and use dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine.
• Keto-friendly version: Reduce sugar or replace with a sugar-free substitute.
• Low-sodium alternative: Use low-sodium soy sauce and homemade chicken broth.
• Vegetable additions: Snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn can be added for extra texture.

Black Pepper Chicken Cooking Notes

Key Tips for Tender Black Pepper Chicken

• Slice chicken against the grain: This keeps it tender and prevents it from getting chewy.
• Use cornstarch in the marinade: It creates a velvety texture when stir-fried.
• Sear before stirring: Let the chicken develop a golden crust before moving it around the pan.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.

Why Remove Chicken Mid-Cooking in Black Pepper Chicken?

• Prevents overcooking, keeping the chicken moist and juicy.
• Allows the vegetables to cook properly without the risk of overcooking the meat.

Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Frying 101

• Prep everything first: Stir-frying is fast, so have all ingredients chopped and measured before starting.
• Use high heat: This gives the chicken and veggies a nice char and deep flavor.
• Keep moving: Stir constantly to avoid burning or sticking.
• Use a wok if possible: The shape allows for even heat distribution and better control.

Black Pepper Chicken Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1: Prepare the Black Pepper Chicken Ingredients

• Slice the chicken and marinate it for 15-20 minutes.
• Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl.
• Chop the onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger.

2: Cook the recipe

• Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
• Add chicken in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned.
• Remove chicken and set aside.

3: Stir-Fry the Aromatics and Vegetables for Black Pepper Chicken

• Add another tbsp of oil to the pan.
• Stir-fry garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add onions and bell peppers, cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a subtle spice boost.

4: Add the Black Pepper Chicken Sauce and Finish

• Pour the black pepper sauce into the pan and stir well.
• Let the sauce thicken for 1-2 minutes.
• Return the chicken, toss everything together until well-coated.
• Garnish with chopped green onions.
• Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

• Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice
• Cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option)
• Fried rice (for extra indulgence)
• Steamed bok choy or broccoli (for added greens)

Black Pepper Chicken Meal Prep & Storage Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze for up to 1-2 months.
• Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to restore moisture.
• Avoid microwaving: This can dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Related Recipes

If you loved this, try these next:

• Honey Garlic Chicken – Explore more delicious chicken stir-fry options.
• Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe – Try another flavorful Asian-inspired chicken dish.
• Ground Chicken Recipes – Looking for more chicken-based meals? Check out these ideas.
• Caldo de Pollo Recipe – For a comforting and hearty chicken dish, try this warm classic.
• Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes – Looking for ways to use leftover chicken? Here are some creative ideas.

Final Thoughts

Homemade black pepper chicken is the perfect balance of bold, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. By making it yourself, you get complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier, tastier meal than any takeout option. Plus, you can tweak the spice levels, adjust the seasoning to your liking, and even experiment with different vegetables for a custom version every time.

Whether you’re meal-prepping, looking for a quick dinner, or just craving some Chinese flavors, this recipe is a winner. It’s also a great way to introduce home-cooked Asian-inspired dishes to your repertoire. Not only is it satisfying to make, but it’s also a dish that can be easily doubled for leftovers or shared with family and friends.

Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home! Once you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again as a reliable, flavorful, and easy-to-make favorite.