This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a winner for dinner! Tender chicken bites are tossed in a spicy black pepper sauce that has just the right kick. Quick and simple, perfect for busy nights!
Honestly, this dish makes dinner feel a bit fancy but takes hardly any time to whip up. I love serving it with rice for a tasty meal that everyone enjoys. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like to use boneless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breast works just as well. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could even use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper really brings out the flavor! If you want a milder taste, just reduce the amount. White pepper is a good alternative if you want less visible spice.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds depth, but if you’re gluten-free, there’s tamari. For a less salty version, try low-sodium soy sauce. Coconut aminos are a great soy-free alternative too!
Oyster Sauce: I recommend it for extra umami, but you can skip it or use a vegetarian version if needed. A splash of hoisin sauce can also work in a pinch.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but it just takes a little attention! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium-high heat to sear the outside, giving it that nice browning. Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned pan.
- Make sure your chicken pieces are about the same size for even cooking. If they’re too thick, they may not cook all the way through.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it can steam the chicken instead of browning it. Cook in batches if necessary!
- Check for doneness by ensuring the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) or until it’s no longer pink inside.
With these tips, your chicken will turn out tender and flavorful every time. Happy cooking!
Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Salt to taste
- Spring onions or chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and simple dish that makes for an easy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to get the chicken cooking quickly but not so hot that it burns the ingredients.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and sliced onions to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and the onions are soft and translucent. This step helps build a lovely flavor base!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan. Season with a pinch of salt. Cook for around 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and fully cooked through.
4. Add the Seasonings:
Stir in the freshly ground black pepper, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar. Mix everything well to ensure the chicken is nicely coated in all the yummy flavors.
5. Simmer:
Pour in the water or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step will help to create a nice sauce.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the pan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Stir as it thickens, and you’ll know it’s ready when it coats the chicken nicely.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you’d like it spicier, add more black pepper! If more salt is needed, sprinkle in a little more.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Optional: garnish with chopped spring onions or green onions for a fresh touch. Serve your delicious black pepper chicken hot over steamed rice or with your favorite side dishes!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy black pepper chicken dinner! It’s quick, tasty, and sure to impress your family or guests!
FAQ for Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are great for this recipe as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if your pieces are larger, ensuring they’re fully cooked through.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos. Both give a similar flavor profile without the gluten. For a low-sodium option, opt for low-sodium soy sauce.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, add extra freshly ground black pepper or toss in some red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also serve it with a side of chili sauce for an extra kick! Enjoy!
