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Black Pepper Chicken: A Bold and Comforting Classic


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  • Author: ating
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Savor the bold flavors of this quick and delicious Black Pepper Chicken! Juicy chicken pieces are stir-fried with colorful bell peppers and onions in a rich, peppery sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal served over steamed rice!


Ingredients

  • 1 lb (454 g) chicken breasts or thighs, sliced against the grain into 1/4” (5-mm) thick pieces
  • 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
  • 2 teaspoons dark 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 (mixed colors)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken:
    • In a bowl, combine the chicken slices with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch.
    • Mix well and let marinate for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In a small bowl, mix all sauce ingredients together until smooth.
    • Set aside for later use.
  3. Sear the Chicken:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and let it sear for 30 seconds without moving it.
    • Flip and cook for another 15-20 seconds, stirring occasionally.
    • Once lightly browned but still pink inside, transfer the chicken to a plate.
  4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
    • Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet.
    • Toss in the minced ginger and garlic, stirring quickly until fragrant.
    • Add the chopped onion and bell peppers, stir-frying for about 20 seconds.
  5. Bring it All Together:
    • Stir the sauce mixture once more to ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
    • Pour it into the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
    • Add the partially cooked chicken back into the skillet and mix well to coat everything with the sauce.
    • Turn off the heat and immediately transfer everything to a serving plate.
  6. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Serve hot on its own or over steamed rice.
    • For a healthier option, try brown rice or quinoa

Notes

  • Using fresh cracked black pepper enhances the dish’s bold flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of black pepper according to your spice preference.
  • Cornstarch in the marinade keeps the chicken tender and juicy.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet.


  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Chinese