How to Make Black Pepper Chicken Perfectly Every Time

Are you ready to spice up your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s bursting with flavor? I’m talking about Black Pepper Chicken! This savory delight is not only easy to make but also perfect for quick family dinners. With tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a bold black pepper sauce, it’s a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those busy evenings when you need something delicious on the table in no time. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Packed with flavor from the black pepper and fresh ingredients.
• Versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers taste even better!
• A wonderful way to introduce more healthy dinner recipes into your routine.

Ingredients

To make this delicious 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 wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (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. Mix well and set aside.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken. Spread the chicken into a single layer using a spatula, 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. Stir and cook 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. Immediately 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 helpful suggestions to ensure your Black Pepper Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

• For a spicier kick, feel free to add more black pepper or even some crushed red pepper flakes.
• Make sure to slice the chicken against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• If you want to add more veggies, consider tossing in some broccoli or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious boost.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with Air Fryer Asparagus or 10 Minute Air Fryer Broccoli for a complete meal.

How to Serve

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

• Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
• Pair it with a fresh salad pasta for a lighter option.
• For a fun twist, try it in a wrap with some crunchy veggies.
• Don’t forget to drizzle some extra sauce over the top for added flavor!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Black Pepper Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Store any 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.

With this recipe, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for healthy dinner recipes chicken or just a quick and easy option, Black Pepper Chicken is sure to please. Enjoy your cooking adventure!