Name: Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (sliced); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional); 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste); 1/4 cup chicken broth or water; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening); Salt, to taste; Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

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Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The bold, peppery kick combined with tender chicken makes for a delicious meal that can be prepared in no time. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish brings the heat without being too complicated, making it ideal for those days when I want something savory, spicy, and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Easy Black Pepper Chicken because it’s so quick, yet packed with flavor. The black pepper gives the dish a nice spice without being overwhelming, and the savory sauce coats the chicken beautifully. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and bold, making it the perfect option for a simple weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal to impress guests. Plus, with just a few ingredients, it’s easy to make, and cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra depth)
1 teaspoon sugar
2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season with a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of black pepper.
Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, chicken broth, and the remaining black pepper. Pour this sauce mixture into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine.
Thicken the sauce (optional): If you want a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then add it to the skillet. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine the chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly in the peppery sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve the black pepper chicken over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so it’s a quick and easy meal that comes together in just 30 minutes!

Variations

Spicy Version: Add sliced chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you like more heat.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version that’s just as tasty.
Additional Veggies: Add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas for added texture and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe. They are more tender and juicy than breasts and will add even more flavor to the dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store the components separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to cook and serve.

Can I use a different type of sauce in place of oyster sauce?

If you prefer, you can substitute the oyster sauce with hoisin sauce, or you can skip it entirely if you don’t have it on hand. The dish will still be flavorful with just the soy sauce.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

To give the sauce more spice, you can add fresh chilies, chili paste, or a little sriracha to taste. Adjust it based on how much heat you like!

What can I serve this dish with?

I love serving this black pepper chicken over steamed jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables. Noodles also make a great option if you prefer them to rice.

Conclusion

Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful, quick dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you need something satisfying but simple. The peppery, savory sauce coats the chicken beautifully, creating a dish that’s both comforting and bold. With a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. Whether served with rice, noodles, or vegetables, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite in your household!