Name: Black Pepper Chicken: A Flavorful Stir-Fry Recipe to Savor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: Chicken and Marinade; 1 lb (450 g) 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; Sauce; 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; Stir Fry; 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil); 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 white onion, chopped; 2 bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors recommended)

JUMP TO RECIPE

When you’re in the mood for something that combines savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors, there’s one dish that never disappoints: Black Pepper Chicken. With its tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and perfectly balanced sauce, it’s the kind of meal that satisfies your cravings without overwhelming your palate.

But there’s more to this dish than just flavor—it’s about ease, comfort, and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a busy day or feeding a family, Black Pepper Chicken delivers. In this article, you’ll discover how to make this delicious stir-fry from scratch, ensuring it’s the highlight of your dinner routine.

What is Black Pepper Chicken?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Essential Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Black Pepper Chicken
Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion

What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken is a classic dish in Chinese stir-fry cuisine. Its defining feature is the robust use of black pepper, which imparts a unique heat that enhances the dish’s savory and sweet flavors. In the traditional preparation, the chicken is marinated to achieve tenderness and then stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and a rich sauce. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.

The magic of Black Pepper Chicken lies in its balance. The heat from the black pepper and soy sauce is countered by the sweetness of sugar, while the rich aroma of Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry) adds depth. The crispy texture of stir-fried vegetables combined with the tender chicken makes every bite a satisfying experience. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

The best part about Black Pepper Chicken is that it’s quick to prepare. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a dish that looks like it’s come from a gourmet kitchen. Whether you’re preparing it on a busy weekday or as a quick weekend dinner, this stir-fry doesn’t take much time but delivers incredible flavor.

2. Bold and Flavorful

One bite of Black Pepper Chicken and you’ll be hooked. The combination of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and black pepper creates a harmonious and bold sauce that elevates the chicken and vegetables. The black pepper’s sharp bite is perfectly balanced, making the dish both satisfying and addictive.

3. Versatile

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can switch up the veggies based on what’s in season or use different types of protein, like beef, tofu, or shrimp. You can also adjust the level of heat by adding more or less black pepper depending on your taste. The sauce can be modified for a sweeter or saltier flavor profile, giving you full control over the final taste.

4. Healthy and Nutritious

Black Pepper Chicken offers a great balance of lean protein from the chicken and vitamins from the vegetables. Using fresh ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and ginger makes this stir-fry a healthy option without sacrificing flavor. It’s a nutrient-dense meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

The Essential Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken

Before you dive into the cooking process, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Chicken Marinade

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Chicken breasts (or thighs)	1 lb (450 g)	Tender, juicy protein base.
Light soy sauce	1 tablespoon	Adds umami flavor.
Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)	1 tablespoon	Depth and sweetness in the marinade.
Cornstarch	1 tablespoon	Helps tenderize and coat the chicken.

Sauce

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Chicken broth	1/2 cup	Adds richness and depth.
Light soy sauce	2 tablespoons	Brings salty umami flavor.
Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)	2 tablespoons	Adds complexity to the sauce.
Dark soy sauce	2 teaspoons	For color and a deeper flavor.
Cornstarch	1 tablespoon	Thickens the sauce.
Sugar	1 1/2 tablespoons	Balances out the savory elements.
Coarsely ground black pepper	2 teaspoons	The star ingredient for heat and flavor.
Salt	1/8 teaspoon	Enhances the overall flavor.

Stir-Fry Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Peanut oil (or vegetable oil)	2 tablespoons	For stir-frying the chicken and veggies.
Fresh ginger, minced	1 tablespoon	Adds a fragrant, spicy kick.
Garlic, minced	2 cloves	For a savory depth in the stir-fry.
White onion, chopped	1/2	Adds sweetness and crunch.
Bell peppers, chopped	2 (mixed colors)	Provides sweetness and color.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Black Pepper Chicken

Marinating the Chicken

Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, add the sliced chicken, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Use your hands to gently mix everything together, ensuring the chicken is fully coated.
Let It Sit: Allow the chicken to marinate for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the flavors infuse and makes the chicken more tender.

Making the Sauce

Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, black pepper, and salt.
Stir Well: Whisk the sauce ingredients until the cornstarch is fully dissolved, creating a smooth, well-balanced sauce. Set it aside for later use.

Cooking the Chicken

Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken to the pan.
Sear the Chicken: Spread the chicken into a single layer using a spatula. Allow it to cook for 30 seconds, or until the bottom is lightly browned.
Flip and Finish Cooking: Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 15 to 20 seconds, stirring occasionally. The chicken should still be slightly pink inside. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Stir-Frying the Veggies

Add More Oil: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Toss in the minced ginger and garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Veggies: Add the chopped onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 20 seconds, just enough to soften the veggies but keep their crunch.
Add the Sauce: Stir the sauce one last time to ensure the cornstarch is evenly distributed. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the veggies, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together so the chicken is coated with the sauce. Let it cook for another minute to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld together.

Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and vegetables make a huge difference in flavor. Don’t substitute with dried ingredients when possible.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more black pepper to the sauce. If you’re not a fan of too much heat, start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste.
Marinate Longer: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes or more to allow the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Balance the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the sugar slightly. For a saltier kick, add more soy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful dish. Just ensure you cook them thoroughly.

2. Can I make Black Pepper Chicken ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator, and stir-fry when you’re ready to eat.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and check that the cornstarch is gluten-free for a completely gluten-free dish.

Conclusion: Enjoy a Flavorful, Homemade Dish

Now that you know how to make Black Pepper Chicken, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. With its bold flavors, tender chicken, and satisfying crunch from the veggies, this stir-fry is a dish you’ll crave again and again. It’s the perfect meal for busy nights or when you want something full of flavor but quick and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family and friends, Black Pepper Chicken delivers. So why wait? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and start cooking this mouthwatering recipe today!