Black Pepper Chicken: A Flavorful Delight

Name: Black Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs; 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

Published: September 1, 2025

by mahdibrs

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This black pepper chicken recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights when time is short but flavor isn’t.
The balance of spices creates a bold flavor profile that will impress anyone at your dinner table.
Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to catch everyone’s eye.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy over rice or wrapped in lettuce!

Ingredients for black pepper chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy thighs make this dish incredibly flavorful; feel free to swap them for breasts if you prefer.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is key for that spicy kick—don’t skimp on it!
Garlic: Fresh garlic will elevate your dish with its aromatic flair; minced works best here.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for seasoning without overwhelming saltiness.
Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil adds an authentic Asian twist and depth of flavor.

For the Sauce:

Brown Sugar: This sweetener balances the spice from the black pepper beautifully; light or dark works fine!
Ginger: Fresh grated ginger brings warmth and zest; don’t forget to peel it before grating!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make black pepper chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients—because nothing is worse than realizing you’re missing something mid-cooking! Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Marinate Like a Pro

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and half of the black pepper. Toss in those chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or longer if you’re feeling fancy).

Step 3: Heat Things Up

Grab a large skillet and heat some sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your marinated chicken in a single layer (this helps with that glorious browning we all love).

Step 4: Sizzle Away

Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally so everything cooks evenly—not like some sad batch of forgotten veggies lurking in the corner.

Step 5: Sauce It Up

Sprinkle remaining black pepper over the cooked chicken along with brown sugar. Stir well until everything is coated nicely and caramelized—your kitchen should smell divine right now!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your black pepper chicken onto plates or serve it family-style right from the pan. Pair it with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for an unforgettable meal.

Now go ahead—drizzle with extra sauce if you wish—and enjoy every last bite of this delightful dish!

You Must Know

This black pepper chicken recipe delivers bold flavors and a delightful kick.
It’s easy to whip up on busy weeknights and can be customized based on your pantry staples.
The enticing aroma and vibrant colors are sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first in a hot skillet to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook your veggies while preparing the sauce. Finally, combine everything for a perfect finish that will make your taste buds dance.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp for a twist. Experiment with spices like cumin or paprika, or add vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas for a colorful crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always allow your chicken to rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy.
Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get that beautiful sear.
Don’t skip tasting your sauce; adjust seasoning according to your preference.

It was my sister’s birthday when I first made this black pepper chicken, and let me tell you, the compliments flowed like wine! It quickly became our family’s go-to dish for celebrations—who knew pepper could bring so much joy?

FAQs:

What is black pepper chicken?

Black pepper chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a savory, spicy black pepper sauce. This dish often features ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and vegetables, enhancing the overall taste. The heat from the black pepper adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile, making it a popular choice in many cuisines. You can serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

How do I make black pepper chicken spicier?

To spice up your black pepper chicken, consider adding more freshly cracked black pepper or incorporating other heat sources like chili flakes or fresh chilies. You can also include spicy sauces like Sriracha or hot sauce in the marinade or sauce mixture. Adjusting these elements allows you to customize the level of heat according to your preference, ensuring a memorable dining experience for those who enjoy bold flavors.

Can I use other proteins in black pepper chicken?

Absolutely! While chicken is the star of this dish, you can easily substitute it with beef, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein will bring its own unique texture and flavor to the recipe. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly; for example, shrimp cooks faster than chicken. This versatility allows you to create various iterations of the dish while maintaining that signature black pepper taste.

What sides pair well with black pepper chicken?

Black pepper chicken pairs beautifully with various sides that complement its bold flavors. Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice are excellent choices as they absorb the savory sauce well. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for added color and nutrition. Another great option is a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish and provide refreshing contrasts.

Planning your weekly menu? Browse these dinner recipe ideas for more delicious inspiration.

Conclusion for black pepper chicken:

In summary, black pepper chicken offers a delightful blend of spicy and savory flavors that can elevate any meal. By customizing your ingredients and cooking methods, you can create variations that suit your taste preferences. Whether served over rice or with fresh vegetables, this dish remains versatile and delicious. With simple preparation steps and endless possibilities for customization, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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📖 Recipe Card