Black Pepper Chicken

Name: Black Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, sliced; 2 tablespoons light soy sauce; 2 tablespoons dry apple juice; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 white onion, chopped; 2 bell peppers, chopped

Published: August 8, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This black pepper chicken can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a busy weekday dinner.
Flavorful Sauce: The rich and savory black pepper sauce elevates the dish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences.
Healthy Option: With lean chicken and plenty of vegetables, this dish offers a nutritious balance without sacrificing taste.
Gluten-Free Adaptable: By using tamari and dry apple juice instead of traditional soy sauce and Shaoxing vinegar, you can enjoy this dish gluten-free.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious black pepper chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Medium-sized bowl
Small bowl
Spatula
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: A wide surface allows for even cooking of the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is perfectly sautéed.
Medium-sized bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken, allowing flavors to absorb effectively.
Spatula: Necessary for flipping the chicken without breaking it apart during cooking.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced against the grain into 1/4” (5-mm) thick pieces
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
1 tablespoon dry apple juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
2 tablespoons dry apple juice
2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons peanut oil
1 tablespoon minced ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 white onion, chopped
2 bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors)

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine the chicken, light soy sauce, dry apple juice, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl. Gently mix by hand until the chicken is coated with a thin layer of the mixture. Marinate for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all sauce ingredients. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken. Spread it into a single layer with minimal overlap. Sear for about one minute until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 30 seconds to one minute until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-fry Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add minced ginger and garlic; stir quickly until fragrant. Then add chopped white onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about twenty seconds.

Step 5: Combine Sauce & Chicken

Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch dissolves completely. Pour it into the skillet while stirring immediately with a spatula. Cook until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon—just a few seconds. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and quickly stir everything to coat well with sauce.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Turn off heat immediately after mixing everything well in the skillet to prevent overcooking. Transfer everything onto a large plate and serve hot as a main dish.

Enjoy your homemade black pepper chicken that rivals any restaurant takeout!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Serving Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful experience that elevates your meal with vibrant flavors and textures. Here are some creative suggestions to enjoy this dish.

Pair with Rice

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice complements the savory sauce beautifully.
Fried Rice: Add an extra layer of flavor by serving it with vegetable or chicken fried rice.

Add Fresh Greens

Stir-Fried Bok Choy: A quick stir-fry adds a crunchy texture and freshness to your plate.
Crispy Cabbage Salad: A light salad with sesame dressing balances the richness of the chicken.

Include a Soup

Hot and Sour Soup: This classic soup offers a comforting contrast to the spicy black pepper chicken.
Egg Drop Soup: A simple, soothing soup that won’t overpower the main dish.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Black Pepper Chicken, keep these tips in mind.

Marinate the Chicken Well: Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade enhances its flavor and tenderness.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and crisp vegetables make a noticeable difference in taste.
Control Your Heat: Cooking at medium-high heat helps achieve that perfect sear without overcooking the chicken.
Keep It Colorful: Using a mix of bell peppers not only adds flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add more or less black pepper according to your preference for spice.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Complement your Black Pepper Chicken with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

Fried Rice: A flavorful combination of rice, veggies, and protein for a satisfying side.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a fresh crunch and bright color.
Garlic Noodles: Tossed in garlic butter, these noodles are rich and comforting alongside the chicken.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crisp spring rolls are perfect for dipping into soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.
Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option packed with veggies for extra fiber and texture.
Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad brings a cool contrast to the spicy chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Black Pepper Chicken even better. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Cook just until it’s no longer pink inside for juicy results.
Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken reduces flavor. Allow time for the marinade to penetrate for a more flavorful dish.
Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to chop vegetables and measure sauce ingredients beforehand leads to chaos. Prep everything in advance for a smoother cooking process.
Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the chicken well. Make sure to cook it until thickened enough to stick.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor quality soy sauce or broth affects taste. Always choose fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken is a savory stir-fry dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a rich black pepper sauce with crisp vegetables.

How do I customize Black Pepper Chicken?

You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, or by adjusting the amount of black pepper based on your spice preference.

Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute tamari for soy sauce and dry apple juice for Shaoxing apple vinegar to create a gluten-free version of this dish.

What sides pair well with Black Pepper Chicken?

Serve with steamed rice or noodles, and add a side of stir-fried greens or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that surpasses typical takeout options. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level according to your taste. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!