Name: black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional); 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 piece bell pepper (any color), sliced; 1 piece onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper; salt, to taste

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If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and melts in your mouth, then black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken is exactly what you need to make tonight. This recipe combines the spicy warmth of freshly ground black pepper with succulent, thinly sliced chicken breast and crisp vegetables, creating a balance of heat and sweetness that’s simply irresistible. Each bite delivers the perfect harmony of tender meat and vibrant, fresh ingredients, making it a favorite not only for weeknight dinners but also for impressing friends and family. Trust me, once you try this black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken, it’ll become your go-to comfort food that’s quick, gratifying, and packed with flavor.

black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each adding a unique touch to the dish’s overall flavor, texture, and color. Together, they build a foundation that makes this black pepper chicken stand out.

Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Thin strips cook evenly and stay tender throughout the stir-fry.
Vegetable oil: Provides the perfect medium for high-heat cooking without overpowering the flavors.
Bell pepper: Adds sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the pepper’s heat.
Onion: Brings a subtle sharpness and richness after cooking.
Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and depth of flavor.
Freshly ground black pepper: The star spice that delivers a punch of bold heat and complexity.
Soy sauce: Enhances the umami and saltiness, tying everything together.
Oyster sauce (optional): Adds a lush, slightly sweet umami boost.
Sugar: Balances the spice and salt with a hint of sweetness.
Cornstarch: Helps the marinade cling to the chicken and creates a silky sauce.
Green onions: Fresh garnish adding color and a mild onion bite.
Salt: Adjust to taste and highlight all the flavors in the dish.

How to Make black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing the chicken strips with soy sauce, optional oyster sauce, sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl. This simple marinade not only flavors the chicken but also tenderizes it, which is essential for getting that juicy tenderness in every bite. Let the chicken soak up these flavors for about 10 minutes—this step is key to unlocking the signature taste of black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken.

Step 2: Sizzle the Garlic

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and stir-fry quickly for about 30 seconds until it smells fragrant and golden. This quick burst of aromatic garlic will be the flavor base that gets your taste buds tingling and lays the foundation for the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken strips to the hot pan, stirring constantly for about 5 to 7 minutes. This step requires attention to achieve the perfect balance where the chicken browns slightly on the edges but remains juicy and tender inside—a hallmark characteristic of black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken. The cornstarch in the marinade will help create a light, silky coating on the chicken pieces during this process.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Throw in the sliced bell pepper and onion, then stir-fry for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender but still maintain a crisp snap, adding both texture and fresh vibrancy to the dish. This contrast turns every bite into a delight, where spicy, savory chicken meets sweet, crunchy veggies.

Step 5: Season with Black Pepper and Salt

Sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper generously over the mixture, then add salt to taste. This is where the dish truly comes alive. The black pepper’s spicy kick combined with a pinch of salt ties the flavors together, delivering that unforgettable heat and depth in your black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken. Make sure to stir everything well, so every piece is coated in this bold seasoning.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serving Prep

Turn off the heat and transfer your perfectly cooked black pepper chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and a subtle, fresh bite. This easy step adds a lovely visual charm and a final layer of mild onion flavor that complements the pepper.

How to Serve black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken

Garnishes

Besides the classic green onions, consider sprinkling toasted sesame seeds or even a few sliced fresh chili peppers for extra heat and texture. Not only do these garnishes elevate the look of your dish, but they also add an exciting burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the black pepper’s boldness.

Side Dishes

This dish shines brightest when served with something that balances its peppery punch. Steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice, soaking up all those delicious sauces. For a twist, try coconut rice for a fragrant, creamy touch or simple noodles tossed in a little sesame oil to complement the dish’s savory elements.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Serve the chicken in a hollowed-out bell pepper or on a bed of crispy fried rice cups. Another fun idea is to pair it alongside a fresh vegetable stir-fry or a crunchy Asian slaw for added color and texture. The vibrant look of this dish makes it perfect for a casual dinner party or even a festive family meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to three days, making it perfect for quick lunches or a second dinner without losing its wonderful flavor and tenderness.

Freezing

If you want to keep this delicious dish longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooked chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to two months. Just remember the texture might soften slightly upon thawing, but the bold black pepper flavor remains intact.

Reheating

For the best results when reheating, warm the leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the chicken’s tender texture and the crispness of the vegetables. Avoid microwaving directly if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery and the veggies soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are great if you prefer darker meat with more fat, which can add extra juiciness and flavor to your black pepper chicken. Just make sure to slice them thinly and adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is oyster sauce necessary for this recipe?

Oyster sauce is optional but highly recommended as it adds a layer of sweet umami richness that complements the black pepper beautifully. If you don’t have any on hand, soy sauce alone will still produce a tasty dish.

How spicy is the black pepper chicken?

The freshly ground black pepper gives this dish a warm, spicy kick rather than overwhelming heat. If you enjoy more spice, you can add chopped fresh chili peppers or red pepper flakes to amp it up.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms all make fantastic additions. Just be mindful of cooking times so the vegetables stay crisp and vibrant alongside the juicy chicken.

What can I serve instead of rice?

If you want a low-carb or different option, try serving the black pepper chicken with noodles, cauliflower rice, or even wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fresh, light meal.

Final Thoughts

This black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken is such a comforting, flavorful dish that you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. It’s fast to make, packed with tastes and textures that delight every bite, and simple enough for any home cook to master. Give it a go—you’ll soon see why it’s a beloved recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 12 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Black Pepper Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breast strips stir-fried with crisp bell peppers and onions, flavored with freshly ground black pepper, soy sauce, and optional oyster sauce for a rich umami taste. Perfect for a quick and savory weeknight meal, it can be served over steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying dish.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors and tenderize the meat.
Heat the Oil and Garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the hot pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken strips are browned on the outside and cooked through completely.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate the sliced bell pepper and onion into the pan. Stir-fry together with the chicken for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while still retaining a crisp texture.
Season with Black Pepper and Salt: Sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper over the mixture and add salt to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors thoroughly.
Finish and Garnish: Remove the wok from heat and transfer the Black Pepper Chicken to a serving dish. Garnish generously with chopped green onions to add freshness and color.
Optional Heat Enhancers: For an extra spicy kick, add sliced fresh chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes during the stir-frying process along with the vegetables.
Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas during cooking to suit your taste and preferences.
Serve: Serve this flavorful Black Pepper Chicken hot over steamed rice or your favorite noodles for a hearty and delightful meal.

Notes

Oyster sauce is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor and umami to the dish.
Adjust the amount of black pepper to your preferred spice level; freshly ground black pepper is best for flavor.
For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure oyster sauce is gluten-free or omit it.
Marinating the chicken helps tenderize it and enhances the flavor.
This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice or egg noodles.
You can add vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and texture.
To make it spicier, incorporate fresh chili peppers or red pepper flakes while cooking.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Asian