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Lady Maria

Black Pepper Chicken Quick Easy

This Black Pepper Chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your own home. Tender chicken is coated in a savory, slightly spicy black pepper sauce, making for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
  • Sliced green onions, for garnish optional
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • whisk

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon cooking oil.
  3. Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  4. Add another teaspoon of cooking oil to the pan. Add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey (or brown sugar), black pepper, and cornstarch.
  6. Pour the sauce into the pan with the garlic and ginger. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
  7. Add the seared chicken back to the pan with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
  8. Cook for another minute or two, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is glossy and clinging to the chicken.
  9. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds, if desired.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrients. Adjust the amount of black pepper to your preference. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.