Sizzling Black Pepper Chicken Recipe: Bold Flavors Made Simple

Succulent chicken pieces dance with robust spices in this tantalizing black pepper chicken recipe that promises to awaken every taste bud.

Aromatic and bold, each bite delivers a punch of intense flavor that lingers delightfully on the palate.

The kitchen comes alive with the sizzling sounds of marinated chicken meeting a hot skillet.

Carefully selected ingredients blend seamlessly to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

Tender chicken coated in a rich, peppery sauce promises a culinary adventure that transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Every forkful tells a story of careful seasoning and expert cooking technique.

Prepare to embark on a flavor journey that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

FAQs

• What does the black pepper do in this recipe?

Black pepper adds a sharp, warm spiciness that enhances the chicken’s flavor and creates a bold, aromatic taste profile.

• Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, thighs, or even cubed chicken, but ensure they’re cut uniformly for even cooking and consistent seasoning.

• Is this a spicy dish?

The spice level depends on the chilies used. You can adjust the amount of chilies or remove seeds to control heat intensity according to your preference.

• How important is marinating the chicken?

Marinating helps tenderize the meat, infuse flavor, and creates a protective coating that keeps the chicken moist during high-heat cooking.

Reasons to Love Black Pepper Chicken

• Spice Up Your Meal: Black pepper chicken delivers a bold, zesty flavor profile that transforms an ordinary dinner into an exciting culinary adventure.
• Master Quick Cooking: This recipe requires minimal preparation and cooking skills, making it perfect for home cooks of all experience levels who want a delicious meal without complicated techniques.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible ingredients allow simple swaps or adjustments, letting you adapt the dish to personal taste preferences or pantry availability without compromising the core recipe's integrity.
• Balanced Nutrition Boost: Packed with protein from chicken and vibrant vegetables, this dish offers a wholesome meal that satisfies hunger while providing essential nutrients in one delightful plate.

Black Pepper Chicken Essential Ingredients

• Chicken: Tender protein that serves as the primary ingredient in this savory dish.

• Black Pepper, Soy Sauce, Vinegar, Sugar, Sesame Oil: Blend of seasonings that creates a rich, complex flavor profile for the chicken.
• Cornstarch, Water: Thickening agents that help create a smooth, glossy sauce consistency.

• Ginger, Garlic, Chilies: Provide depth of flavor and aromatic base for the stir-fry.
• Onion, Peppers: Add color, texture, and fresh vegetable notes to the dish.

• Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the chicken and balances the other flavors.
• Fresh Black Pepper: Adds a final zesty and spicy finish to the completed dish.

• Oil: Helps in cooking the chicken and vegetables with a smooth, even heat distribution.

Preparing Black Pepper Chicken with Ease

Step 1: Whip Up the Flavor Sauce

Grab a bowl and combine black pepper, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water.

Whisk everything together until the mixture becomes smooth and well-blended.

The sauce will be the secret weapon of this delicious dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Toss the chicken with a splash of the prepared sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.

Let the chicken marinate and soak up those incredible flavors while you get the other ingredients ready.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Spread the chicken in a single layer and cook until it turns a beautiful golden brown and is completely cooked through.

Transfer the chicken to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 4: Awaken the Aromatics

In the same pan, quickly stir-fry ginger, garlic, and chilies for about 30 seconds.

The kitchen will start to smell amazing!

Add onions and bell peppers, cooking until they become crisp-tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Lower the heat and pour in the remaining sauce.

Let it simmer for about 30 seconds, creating a glossy coating.

Return the chicken to the pan and toss everything together until the chicken is heated through.

Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh black pepper for an extra kick.

Black Pepper Chicken Cooking Tips

• Crush whole black peppercorns just before cooking to release more intense, aromatic notes that elevate the entire dish's taste profile.
• Pat chicken pieces dry before cooking to ensure golden, crispy exterior and prevent steaming instead of browning.
• Adjust chili quantity based on personal heat tolerance, removing seeds for milder version or adding extra for more kick.
• Mix cornstarch with cold water to prevent lumps and create smooth, glossy sauce that clings perfectly to chicken and vegetables.
• Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and maintain ideal crisp-tender texture throughout the stir-fry.

Unique Twists for Black Pepper Chicken

• Spicy Gochujang Chicken: Replace black pepper sauce with Korean gochujang paste, adding more heat and complex flavor profile for a Korean-inspired dish.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Version: Swap chicken for cauliflower florets, using same seasoning and cooking method to create a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce, gluten-free cornstarch, and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for sensitive diets.
• Mediterranean Herb Chicken: Substitute black pepper sauce with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and thyme for a lighter Mediterranean-style preparation.

Serving Ideas for Black Pepper Chicken

• Flavor Fusion Feast: Pair this zesty black pepper chicken with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce and balance the spicy kick.
• Restaurant-Style Plating: Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a professional chef-like presentation that adds texture and visual appeal.
• Spice Level Control: Serve with cooling cucumber yogurt raita or a side of fresh cilantro-mint chutney to help moderate the black pepper's heat for sensitive palates.
• Wholesome Meal Companion: Create a complete dinner by adding roasted broccoli or stir-fried bok choy alongside the chicken for a nutritious and satisfying meal that brings extra vegetable goodness.

Storing and Enjoying Black Pepper Chicken Later

• Store leftover black pepper chicken in an airtight container within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Allow the dish to reach room temperature before sealing and storing in the refrigerator, which helps preserve texture and flavor.
• Keep the chicken in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it remains tasty and safe to consume during this period.
• Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture and prevent dryness.

Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

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4.5 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy black pepper chicken brings bold flavors from Asian kitchens, delivering a perfect balance of heat and savory notes. Crispy tender chicken pieces dressed in rich pepper sauce promise a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Chicken & Marinade:

• 500 grams (1.1 pounds) skinless chicken breast, cut into bite size cubes
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Salt as needed

Vegetables & Aromatics:

• 2 medium onions, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1 fresh red/green chili, chopped

Sauce & Cooking Oil:

• 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons peanut oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare a silky sauce by vigorously blending black pepper, soy sauces, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water until achieving a uniform, glossy consistency.
2. Thoroughly coat chicken pieces with a portion of the sauce mixture, cornstarch, and salt. Allow protein to absorb flavors while prepping remaining ingredients.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (375°F). Sear chicken in a single layer, ensuring each piece turns golden brown and cooks completely. Transfer to a clean plate.
4. Using the same skillet, quickly sauté aromatic ginger, garlic, and chilies for approximately 30 seconds, releasing their intense fragrance. Incorporate onions and bell peppers, cooking until they reach a vibrant, crisp-tender texture.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low, pour remaining sauce into the skillet and allow to simmer for 30 seconds, creating a glossy coating. Reintroduce chicken, gently tossing to warm through and evenly distribute sauce. Finish by generously sprinkling fresh cracked black pepper across the dish.

Notes

• Customize spice levels by adjusting the amount of black pepper and chilies for those who prefer milder or bolder flavors.
• Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version that maintains the rich, savory sauce profile.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt intake without compromising the deep umami taste of the dish.
• Marinate chicken longer (up to 30 minutes) for more intense flavor penetration and tender meat texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 308
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 76mg