Delicious Black Pepper Chicken – Easy, Flavorful, and Perfect for Any Occasion

If you’re seeking a dish that’s simultaneously comforting, vibrant, and effortlessly impressive, Black Pepper Chicken is the answer for every occasion. This dish is celebrated for its juicy chicken pieces, boldly flavored with freshly ground black pepper, garlic, and sweet-savory soy glaze. Whether served for a quick weeknight dinner, a festive gathering, or a meal-prep solution, Black Pepper Chicken adapts with ease—always satisfying, always crave-worthy.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to achieve restaurant-quality flavor with wholesome, accessible ingredients and straightforward steps. With customizable spice, crisp-tender vegetables, and a glossy peppery sauce, this recipe is destined to become your new staple for any celebration or casual dinner.

Overview of Delicious Black Pepper Chicken

Delicious Black Pepper Chicken is a versatile, quick-cooking recipe that transforms simple chicken and vegetables into a memorable meal bursting with flavor. Tender pieces of chicken are marinated, then stir-fried to golden perfection and tossed in a robust sauce featuring freshly cracked black pepper, soy, garlic, and a hint of sweetness. The result is a glossy, pepper-forward dish that’s bold but balanced—perfect served over rice, noodles, or even wrapped in lettuce. This recipe is naturally dairy-free, easily made gluten-free, and ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or festive occasions. Discover how easy it is to make this restaurant favorite at home.

Ingredients of Delicious Black Pepper Chicken

This recipe yields 4 generous servings and can easily be doubled for a crowd.

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs. (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot, for gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (coarsely cracked)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or tamari)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable or avocado oil (for stir-frying)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for depth)
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (or extra regular soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons honey or light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper (add more for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for slurry)

Vegetables (Optional, for color and crunch):

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3–4 scallions (green onions), cut into 1-inch pieces

For Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Extra cracked black pepper
• Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Equipment

• Cutting board and chef’s knife
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Nonstick skillet or wok
• Tongs or spatula
• Microplane or grater (for ginger)
• Small bowl (for cornstarch slurry)
• Serving platter or bowls

Cook and Prep Times

Task	Time
Prep Time:	20 minutes
Cook Time:	15–18 minutes
Total Time:	~38 minutes
Servings:	4

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Estimate)

• Calories: 305
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Sugar: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 670mg

Nutritional values vary depending on vegetable use and sauce portions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold flavor, quick cooking: The robust black pepper and soy sauce blend infuses the chicken with deep, complex flavor in just minutes.
• Versatile: Easily swap chicken for tofu, shrimp, or beef, or add your favorite vegetables.
• Healthy and wholesome: Lean protein, crisp veggies, and a homemade sauce—no additives, less oil, lower sodium.
• Make ahead: Preps beautifully for lunchboxes or busy weeknights, reheating well without losing flavor or texture.
• Customizable spice: Adjust pepper level for a mild, medium, or fiery kick.

How To Make Delicious Black Pepper Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken

• In a medium bowl, toss chicken with cornstarch, black pepper, salt, and 1 tablespoon light soy sauce.
• Let marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prepare vegetables and sauce. This helps tenderize the chicken and create a light, velvety coating.

2. Prepare the Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, black pepper, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chicken broth.
• Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to create a slurry.

3. Sear the Chicken

• Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high.
• Add marinated chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes, then stir and cook another 2–3 minutes until browned and nearly cooked through.
• Remove chicken to a clean plate.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables (Optional)

• Add sliced bell peppers, onion, and scallions to the hot skillet. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just tender-crisp. For extra flavor, add a touch more black pepper.

5. Simmer the Sauce

• Return chicken (and any juices) to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce and bring to a simmer.
• Add the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, coating all the chicken and vegetables.

6. Finish and Garnish

• Taste and adjust—add more black pepper or honey to your liking.
• Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh sliced green onions, extra cracked pepper, and sesame seeds if desired.

7. Serve

• Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, noodles, or in lettuce cups for a lighter option.

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: The Marinade

The combination of cornstarch, black pepper, and soy sauce not only infuses flavor but also gives the chicken a light crust that holds onto the sauce. Coarse, freshly cracked black pepper is key—it brings a fragrant heat that ground pepper can’t match. A brief marinade is all that’s needed for juicy results.

Step 2: The Sauce

A blend of soy sauces, honey, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and lots of black pepper creates a sauce that’s both bold and balanced. The oyster sauce (optional) adds depth, while toasted sesame oil imparts a nutty aroma. The sauce should be glossy and pourable—add extra broth if needed.

Step 3: Searing

High heat and a wide pan help the chicken brown quickly without steaming. Don’t overcrowd—work in batches for best color and flavor. Removing the chicken before adding vegetables prevents overcooking.

Step 4: Vegetables

The addition of bell peppers, onions, and scallions not only adds crunch and sweetness but also visual appeal. Stir-fry just until tender-crisp—overcooked veggies will lose their vibrant color and bite.

Step 5: Final Simmer

The real magic happens when chicken and vegetables simmer together in the sauce. The cornstarch slurry thickens everything, creating a shiny glaze that clings to every bite. Taste as you go—add more pepper or honey if you crave extra heat or sweetness.

Step 6: Serving

For a classic presentation, mound the chicken over hot steamed rice and garnish generously. For lighter or low-carb options, serve with lettuce wraps or alongside a crisp cucumber salad.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use freshly cracked black pepper: For maximum aroma and punch.
• Batch-cook chicken: Don’t crowd the pan, or the chicken will steam and lose its sear.
• Vegetable swap: Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots also work beautifully.
• Double the sauce: If you like extra for rice or noodles.
• Mild version: Start with less black pepper and add more to taste.

Make Ahead & Storage

• Fridge: Store cooled Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use firm tofu or mushrooms instead of chicken—press and brown before saucing.
• Extra spicy: Add thinly sliced red chilies or a dash of chili oil at the finish.
• No oyster sauce: Simply use extra soy sauce and a pinch more honey or brown sugar.
• Gluten-free: Swap all soy sauce for tamari and use arrowroot instead of cornstarch.
• Low carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.

What to Serve With Black Pepper Chicken

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice
• Vegetable fried rice
• Stir-fried snow peas or broccoli
• Chilled cucumber salad
• Rice noodles or soba noodles
• Fresh spring rolls or lettuce cups

FAQ of Delicious Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken Recipe Card

Prep: 20 min
Cook: 18 min
Total: ~38 min
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs/breasts, bite-size
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oil

Sauce:

• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (opt)
• 1 tbsp dark soy
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic, 1 tbsp ginger
• ½ cup broth
• 1 tsp cornstarch (slurry)

Veggies:

• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 onion
• 3–4 scallions

Garnish:

• Green onions, sesame, extra pepper

Instructions

1. Marinate: Toss chicken with cornstarch, pepper, salt, soy. Marinate 10–15 min.
2. Sauce: Whisk sauce ingredients; make cornstarch slurry.
3. Sear: Heat oil; cook chicken in batches until golden. Remove.
4. Veggies: Stir-fry peppers, onions, scallions until crisp-tender.
5. Simmer: Return chicken, add sauce, simmer. Stir in slurry to thicken.
6. Finish: Taste, adjust seasoning, garnish, and serve over rice or noodles.

Serving of Delicious Black Pepper Chicken

Present Black Pepper Chicken in a wide, shallow white bowl, chicken and vegetables glistening under a generous coating of glossy, pepper-speckled sauce. Sprinkle with fresh green onions and an extra twist of cracked black pepper. Serve with a side of fluffy jasmine rice or soft rice noodles, and a wedge of lime for brightness. For an elegant occasion, plate atop a small mound of steamed rice with a few microgreens and sesame seeds for contrast. The bold colors and aroma make this dish visually striking and incredibly appetizing for any gathering.

Final Thoughts

This Delicious Black Pepper Chicken recipe is proof that the best comfort food is often the simplest—bold, fresh, and easy to make any night of the week. With its perfectly balanced sauce, crisp vegetables, and customizable heat, this dish is as perfect for family dinners as it is for casual celebrations or meal prep. Try it once, and you’ll always have a reliable, flavorful recipe in your repertoire—one that truly suits any occasion.