Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken pieces with the bold, aromatic punch of freshly ground black pepper. This recipe highlights the perfect balance of savory oyster sauce, soy sauce, and the slight sweetness of sugar, all brought together with a touch of sesame oil and Shaoxing wine for authentic Asian-inspired flavor. The chicken is coated lightly with cornstarch for a tender, velvety texture and cooked with crisp vegetables like onion, bell pepper, and celery to add freshness and crunch. The combination of dark soy sauce and light soy sauce gives the dish a deep, rich color and a balanced umami profile.

This dish is great for quick weeknight dinners because it comes together fast yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. With simple pantry staples and minimal prep, Black Pepper Chicken is a go-to recipe that’s sure to impress both family and guests. Whether served over steamed rice or noodles, it’s a delicious way to enjoy chicken with a peppery kick and vibrant textures. Perfect for those who love Asian-inspired meals with bold seasoning and fresh ingredients, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold and Aromatic Flavor

The freshly ground black pepper combined with oyster and soy sauces delivers a bold, complex taste.

Quick and Easy

Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish cooks fast without compromising on flavor or texture.

Versatile Protein Choice

Works great with both chicken breasts and thighs, depending on your preference.

Balanced Textures

Tender chicken paired with crunchy onions, bell pepper, and celery for a satisfying bite.

Pantry-Friendly Ingredients

Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

Boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
Water
Cornstarch
Neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado)
Oyster sauce
Coarsely ground black pepper
Low sodium chicken stock
Light soy sauce
Sugar
Dark soy sauce
Sesame oil
Garlic
Onion
Shaoxing wine
Bell pepper
Celery

Variations

Spicy Kick

Add sliced fresh chili or a dash of chili flakes to increase heat.

Different Vegetables

Substitute or add mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots for variety.

Gluten-Free

Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and ensure oyster sauce is gluten-free.

Sauce Adjustments

For a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch slurry. For a thinner sauce, increase chicken stock.

Protein Swap

Try the same sauce and veggies with shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss with water, cornstarch, oil, oyster sauce, and black pepper to coat. Set aside to marinate briefly.

Step 2

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 3

Add remaining oil to the pan. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add onion wedges, bell pepper pieces, and celery. Stir-fry until vegetables are just tender.

Step 4

Pour in chicken stock, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, and additional black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 5

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir everything together.

Step 6

Add cornstarch slurry to the pan and cook until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.

Step 7

Remove from heat and serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use freshly ground black pepper for the best aroma and flavor.
Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
Slice vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
Adjust soy sauce and oyster sauce quantities to suit your salt preference.
Stir the cornstarch slurry well before adding to avoid lumps.

How to Serve

Serve Black Pepper Chicken hot over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or your favorite noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. It pairs well with simple steamed vegetables or a crisp Asian slaw for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the chicken completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen in portions. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 1 month.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs work great and add extra juiciness.

How much black pepper should I use?

The recipe uses coarsely ground black pepper for a bold flavor, but adjust to taste.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free oyster sauce.

What can I use if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?

Dry sherry or a small splash of rice vinegar with a pinch of sugar works as a substitute.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prep vegetables ahead, but cook just before serving.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s moderately spicy due to black pepper but not hot; add chili if you want more heat.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil work best for high-heat cooking.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking?

Make sure your pan is hot before adding chicken and use enough oil.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and can be packed for lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken is a deliciously bold, quick, and easy dish that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles while delivering restaurant-quality flavors. The balance of savory sauces and the vibrant crunch of fresh vegetables creates a satisfying meal that’s versatile and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re new to cooking Asian-inspired dishes or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Make it your next weeknight favorite and enjoy the perfect combination of spice, texture, and flavor in every bite.