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Black pepper chicken served over white rice, garnished with chopped green onions and bell peppers.

Black Pepper Chicken

chef Laya
This bold and flavorful Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and easy stir-fry made with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a peppery sauce. Inspired by classic Asian takeout, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and full of rich, savory spice.
Prepr Time 15 minutes
Cooking Time 15 minutes
ToTal Time 30 minutes
Type of plate Main Course
kitchen Asian, Chinese
Serving 4

Ingrédients
  

For the Chicken & Marinade:

  • 500 g 1.1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • For the Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1/2 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 –2 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar or Shaoxing wine optional

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 tbsp vegetable or peanut oil
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 small onion sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper sliced
  • 2 green onions chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

  • In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Set aside to marinate for 10–15 minutes.

Make the Sauce:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, sugar, cornstarch, water (or broth), and optional vinegar/wine. Set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear undisturbed for 1–2 minutes. Stir-fry until golden and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics and Veggies:

  • In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Add garlic and onions; stir-fry until fragrant. Add bell peppers and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.

Combine and Finish:

  • Return chicken to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir well to coat. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is glossy.

Garnish and Serve:

  • Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and serve hot with jasmine rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps.