How to Make Black Pepper Chicken Perfectly Every Time

Are you ready to spice up your weeknight dinners? If you’re like me, you love a dish that’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Black Pepper Chicken. This savory dish is packed with flavor and can be on your table in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick family dinner that everyone will love. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for 30-minute meals.
• Bold flavors from black pepper and fresh ingredients.
• Perfect for meal prep or a last-minute dinner idea.
• Versatile—pair it with rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad.
• Great for the whole family, including picky eaters!

Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering Black Pepper Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced against the grain into 1/4” (5-mm) thick pieces
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing grape juice + 1 tbsp vinegar (or dry sherry)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing grape juice + 1 tbsp vinegar (or dry sherry)
• 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce (or soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 white onion, chopped
• 2 bell peppers, chopped (I used mixed colors)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Black Pepper Chicken:

1. Combine the chicken, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl. Gently mix by hand until the chicken is coated with a thin layer of the mixture. Marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients and mix well. Set aside.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken, spreading it into a single layer with as little overlap as possible. Sear for about 1 minute until the bottom is lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring occasionally until both sides are browned but still a bit pink inside. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the minced ginger and garlic, stirring until fragrant. Then, add the chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking for about 20 seconds.
5. Stir the sauce mixture until the cornstarch is dissolved completely, then pour it into the skillet. Stir with a spatula immediately and cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, just a few seconds. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and quickly stir a few times to coat everything with the sauce. Turn off the heat and remove the skillet from the stove. Transfer everything to a big plate so the ingredients won’t keep cooking in the hot skillet.
6. Serve hot as a main dish.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Black Pepper Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

• For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate longer if you have time—up to an hour works wonders!
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the stir-fry, such as broccoli or snap peas, for a colorful and nutritious meal.
• If you love a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the mix.
• Pair this dish with creamy garlic pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve

This Black Pepper Chicken is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve it over steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
• Pair it with Salad Pasta for a refreshing twist.
• Enjoy it with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy dinner.
• For a fun twist, try it in a wrap with fresh greens and your favorite sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re planning ahead, this dish is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
• You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Now that you have this delicious Black Pepper Chicken recipe in your arsenal, you’ll never have to worry about what to make for dinner again! It’s a fantastic option for quick family dinners and is sure to impress. If you’re looking for more healthy dinner recipes, check out my Green Goddess Juice or Green Detox Juice for a refreshing side. Happy cooking!