This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful dish that’s quick to whip up! Juicy chicken pieces are tossed with black pepper, soy sauce, and colorful veggies for a tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe uses diced chicken breast for a lean option. For a twist, try boneless thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is a must; it packs more flavor than pre-ground. If you want less spice, reduce the amount or swap in white pepper.
Chilies: Red chilies add heat, but you can adjust them to your taste. For milder flavors, use bell peppers or omit them altogether.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce works well, but for a gluten-free alternative, use tamari. You could also try coconut aminos for a sweeter taste.
Oyster Sauce: This sauce enhances the dish’s umami flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, use mushroom sauce instead.
How do I ensure my chicken is perfectly cooked and flavorful?
Marinating your chicken is key to infusing flavor and keeping it tender. Mix your marinade ingredients thoroughly and cover the chicken well. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or even longer if you have time. The more, the better!
- While cooking, ensure the skillet is hot. This helps seal in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. This allows the chicken to brown nicely.
- Always check that the chicken is fully cooked; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How to Make Easy Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 500g chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1-2 red chilies, sliced (adjust for spice preference)
- 3 tablespoons black pepper (freshly ground)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- Salt, to taste
- Spring onions, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time for marinating the chicken, and then about 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and tasty dish perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix the diced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger paste, garlic paste, and salt. Make sure all the chicken pieces are well-coated. Let this sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb all those yummy flavors!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked. Give it a good stir, so it cooks evenly!
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the sliced onions and green bell pepper. Stir-fry these along with the chicken for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender but still have a little crunch. The colors should be bright and inviting!
4. Season with Spice:
Sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper and sugar over everything. Mix it all together to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens!
5. Finish and Serve:
If you like it spicy, add the sliced red chilies and stir for another minute or two. Then, take the skillet off the heat. If you have spring onions, chop some up and sprinkle them on top for a fresh touch.
Serve your Easy Black Pepper Chicken hot with rice or noodles. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the green bell pepper with other vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or carrots. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for harder vegetables like carrots.
What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use a combination of soy sauce and a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness and umami flavor. Alternatively, hoisin sauce can also work as a substitute, though it’s a bit sweeter.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level! If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red chilies or reduce the amount. If you want it spicier, consider adding some chili flakes or a hotter variety of chili peppers. Always taste as you go!
