Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry
The spicy aroma of freshly ground black pepper sizzling with tender chicken slices in a savory soy-based sauce is the heart of this Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry. Balanced with vibrant bell peppers and caramelized onions, this quick stir-fry brings bold flavors to your dinner table in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and peppery heat comforting yet exciting with every bite.
Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or prepping meals for the week ahead, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor without complicated steps. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 large bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Green onions or sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and water to form a smooth slurry. Set aside. - Cook the chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry until lightly browned and almost cooked through, about 4–5 minutes. - Add aromatics
Stir in garlic and onion. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened. - Toss in vegetables
Add the bell pepper and stir-fry for another 2 minutes until crisp-tender. - Combine with sauce
Pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly, letting it simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. - Season with pepper
Sprinkle in the freshly ground black pepper and drizzle sesame oil (if using). Toss everything together. - Serve
Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 25 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
- Bold Flavor: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a unique heat that’s aromatic, not overpowering.
- Versatile: Add mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunch boxes.
Tips & Variations
- Use cold rice as a side: Jasmine or basmati rice pairs perfectly with the peppery sauce.
- For extra spice: Add chili flakes or Thai chilies alongside the black pepper.
- Low-carb option: Serve in lettuce wraps or over cauliflower rice.
- Protein swaps: Substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef for variety.
- Boost the umami: A splash of fish sauce or Shaoxing wine can deepen the flavor.
Conclusion
This Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry is more than just another chicken recipe it’s a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that never fails to impress. With its glossy sauce, vibrant vegetables, and peppery kick, it strikes the perfect balance of comforting and bold. Try it once, and it’ll surely become one of your go-to stir-fry favorites.
So grab your wok, crack that pepper fresh, and enjoy a taste of bold, spicy-sweet magic in every bite!
