This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a tasty and simple dish that packs a flavorful punch! With juicy chicken coated in a delightful black pepper sauce, it’s sure to impress.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless chicken breast is great for this recipe as it’s lean and cooks quickly. If you’re looking for alternatives, boneless thighs are tasty and juicy, or you could use tofu for a vegetarian version.
Sauces: Soy sauce adds saltiness, while oyster sauce contributes a rich, savory flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce, and for a vegetarian substitute, you can try mushroom sauce.
Cornstarch: This ingredient helps to tenderize the chicken and gives it a nice coating. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute, but the texture might differ slightly.
Bell Pepper: While any color will work, red or yellow peppers are sweeter, while green peppers offer a bolder flavor. If you’re out of peppers, you could use snap peas or carrots for some crunch.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper intensifies the flavor of the dish. Adjust to your preferred spice level; if you’re sensitive to spice, you might want to start with less and add more as you taste.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Tender?
The way you cook the chicken affects its tenderness. Marinating in soy and oyster sauce provides moisture and flavor. Always ensure your skillet is hot enough when you stir-fry; this way, the chicken gets a nice sear without becoming rubbery.
- Marinate the chicken for 20-30 minutes, as this really enhances the flavor.
- Heat the oil until it’s shimmering before adding the chicken. This ensures a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to prevent steaming.
How to Make Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 500g boneless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt, to taste
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper (green or red), sliced into strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2-3 green chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Spring onions (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare, including 20-30 minutes for marinating the chicken. The actual cooking time is around 10-12 minutes, so you can enjoy your meal without too much waiting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by taking a bowl and adding the diced chicken pieces. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well until the chicken is fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for about 20-30 minutes. This will help the chicken become flavorful and tender!
2. Heat the Oil:
While the chicken is marinating, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want the oil nice and hot so the chicken gets a great sear when you add it!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry it for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely brown color. Make sure to stir it occasionally to cook evenly!
4. Add the Veggies:
Now, toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are slightly tender but still have a nice crunch. It’s looking good!
5. Season It Up:
Next, stir in the sliced green chilies, freshly cracked black pepper, sugar, and add salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for another 2 minutes. This is where all the wonderful flavors come together!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take it off the heat and, if you like, sprinkle some chopped spring onions on top for a fresh touch. Serve your Easy Black Pepper Chicken hot with steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breast for a juicier flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is fully cooked and safe to eat!
What if I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute oyster sauce with a mixture of soy sauce and a little bit of sugar to add a hint of sweetness. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can use mushroom sauce instead!
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, you can either reduce the number of green chilies or omit them entirely. Alternatively, for more heat, you can add additional chilies or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stir-fry!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This helps enhance the flavors. However, it’s best to cook it fresh for optimal taste and texture. Cooked leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
