When you’re craving a flavorful dish that comes together quickly and offers bold, savory satisfaction, Easy Black Pepper Chicken is the answer. Inspired by the classic takeout favorite, this recipe brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a peppery sauce—all made from scratch. It’s a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into a delicious homemade version that’s better for your wallet and waistline.
Table of Contents
Ingredients 🛒
For the Chicken
- 500g (1.1 lbs) skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized cubes) 🍗
- 2 tbsp peanut oil 🫒 (or any neutral oil)
- Salt, as needed 🧂
- 2 tbsp cornstarch 🌾
For the Vegetables
- 2 medium onions (cut into 1-inch cubes) 🧅
- 1 large green bell pepper (cut into 1-inch cubes) 🫑
- ½ tsp minced garlic 🧄
- ½ tsp minced ginger 🌱
- 1 fresh red or green chili (chopped; optional for added spice) 🌶️
For the Sauce
- ¾ tsp coarsely ground black pepper 🌶️
- 3 tbsp light soy sauce 🍜
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce 🍜
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar 🍚
- ½ tsp brown sugar 🍯
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil 🛢️
- 1 tsp cornstarch 🌾
- 2 tbsp water or chicken broth 💧
Step-by-Step Instructions 🧑🍳
1️⃣ Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the following:
- Black pepper,
- light soy sauce,
- dark soy sauce,
- rice vinegar,
- brown sugar,
- toasted sesame oil,
- cornstarch, and
- water or chicken broth.
- Ensure the mixture is smooth, as the cornstarch will act as a thickener, creating a luscious sauce during cooking.
2️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken pieces in a medium bowl. Add 1 tbsp of the prepared sauce, cornstarch, and a small pinch of salt.
- Toss well to coat the chicken evenly. This step ensures the meat absorbs maximum flavor and remains tender as it cooks. Set aside for about 10–15 minutes to allow the marinade to work its magic.
3️⃣ Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large, non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, cooking them in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cooking in smaller portions ensures each piece sears beautifully, resulting in a golden-brown exterior.
- Cook each batch for approximately 4–5 minutes, or until fully cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.
4️⃣ Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, heat another 1 tbsp of oil. Add garlic, ginger, and chopped chili (if using). Sauté briefly, about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Toss in the onions and bell peppers, and stir-fry over high heat for 2–3 minutes. The goal is to keep the vegetables crisp while adding a slight char for extra flavor.
5️⃣ Combine and Simmer
- Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the remaining sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 30 seconds, so the sauce begins to thicken.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure each piece is coated in the peppery sauce. Let the mixture cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
6️⃣ Serve and Garnish
- For a final flourish, sprinkle the dish with extra coarsely ground black pepper to enhance the aroma.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice, fried rice, or your favorite noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Customizable: Swap the vegetables, adjust the spice level, or even try it with tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The rich sauce and balanced spices rival any takeout meal, at a fraction of the cost.
Tips for the Perfect Black Pepper Chicken
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
- Always use freshly ground black pepper to capture its bold, spicy aroma and earthy flavor. Pre-ground black pepper tends to lose potency over time.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
- When cooking the chicken, leave space between each piece. This ensures proper browning and prevents the meat from steaming.
3. Keep Veggies Crisp
- High-heat stir-frying keeps the vegetables vibrant and crunchy, adding a pleasing contrast to the tender chicken.
4. Adjust the Sauce to Taste
- Prefer a saucier dish? Simply double the sauce ingredients. For a thicker sauce, mix in a touch more cornstarch dissolved in water.
FAQs About Black Pepper Chicken
Q1. Can chicken thighs be used instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are an excellent substitute, offering a richer flavor and juicier texture compared to chicken breasts.
Q2. Is this dish spicy?
The spice level is mild, primarily from the black pepper. If you enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding more fresh chili or a sprinkle of red chili flakes.
Q3. What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to customize the dish with vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms. Choose options that maintain a slight crunch after stir-frying for the best results.
Q4. How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Q5. Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the soy sauces with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure the other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Q6. Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes! Allow the cooked dish to cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Health Benefits of Black Pepper Chicken
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients:
- Lean Protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
- Antioxidants: Black pepper contains piperine, a compound known for its antioxidant properties.
- Vitamin Boost: Bell peppers and onions add essential vitamins like C and B6, as well as dietary fiber.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 15g
This Easy Black Pepper Chicken recipe is a satisfying, versatile dish that’s perfect for busy households. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just need a quick dinner idea, it’s sure to impress. So why not skip the takeout tonight and create your own Panda Express-inspired masterpiece at home?
Enjoy your meal! 🍗🌶️
