Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry
When you crave a quick, bold, and savory dish, this Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry is the perfect solution! Packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich peppery sauce, this stir-fry delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes. Whether you're preparing a speedy weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite, this recipe will become a go-to in your collection of dinner recipes.
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced thin
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 1 bell pepper sliced (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp freshly cracked black pepper adjust to taste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce for the sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce for the sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 tbsp water
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions sesame seeds
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
- Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce: In a small bowl whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, rice vinegar, water, and freshly cracked black pepper. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan heat the remaining oil. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour in the stir-fry sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken and vegetables. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry hot garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds. Pair it with steamed rice, noodles, or a low-carb option like cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: It provides a more robust and complex heat.
- Thinly Slice Ingredients: Ensures even cooking and tender chicken.
- Cook on High Heat: Helps to sear the chicken and keep veggies crisp.
- Double the Sauce: For extra sauciness, especially if serving with rice or noodles.