Savory Black Pepper Chicken is a bold, flavorful stir fry that delivers tender chicken coated in a glossy, pepper-forward sauce. Packed with aromatic garlic, fresh ginger, sweet onions, and crisp bell peppers, this black pepper chicken stir fry balances heat and savory depth in every bite.

This easy Asian chicken recipe comes together quickly in a single pan, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort. Served over fluffy rice, pepper chicken with rice becomes a complete and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.

If you love restaurant-style stir fry but prefer homemade freshness, this quick weeknight chicken dinner is a must-try.

Why Black Pepper is the Star

Freshly cracked black pepper provides more than heat. It offers:

Warm, earthy depth
Slight citrus undertones
Aromatic spice without overwhelming heat
Natural enhancement of savory flavors

Using coarsely cracked pepper rather than pre-ground creates bold texture and stronger aroma, which defines authentic savory black pepper chicken.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Unlike heavily sauced stir fries, this version focuses on balance:

Tender, juicy chicken pieces
Crisp-tender vegetables
Thick, glossy sauce
Pepper heat that builds gradually

The sauce clings perfectly to the chicken without becoming too thick or sticky.

Ingredients

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-size pieces)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons soy sauce (divided)
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional for color)
1½ tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 small onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon sugar
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon soy sauce.
Let marinate for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, chicken broth, sugar, and black pepper.
Stir well and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add chicken in a single layer.
Cook 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 4: Stir Fry Vegetables

In the same pan, add garlic and ginger. Stir briefly until fragrant.
Add onions and bell peppers. Stir fry 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.

Step 5: Combine and Sauce

Return chicken to the pan.
Pour sauce mixture over everything.
Stir continuously until sauce thickens and coats chicken evenly (about 2–3 minutes).
Drizzle sesame oil and toss once more.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat.
Garnish with sliced green onions and extra cracked black pepper if desired.

Tips for Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

Use chicken thighs for juicier results.
Crack pepper fresh for best flavor.
Cook on high heat for authentic stir fry texture.
Avoid overcrowding the pan.

Variations

Spicy Kick

Add sliced fresh chilies or chili paste.

Low-Carb Option

Serve over cauliflower rice instead of white rice.

Extra Vegetables

Add snow peas, mushrooms, or broccoli.

Serving Suggestions

Savory black pepper chicken pairs beautifully with:

Steamed jasmine rice
Brown rice
Fried rice
Stir-fried noodles
Light cucumber salad

Storage & Meal Prep

Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in skillet.
Great for weekly meal prep lunches.

Nutritional Highlights

Chicken thighs provide protein and iron. Black pepper contains antioxidants and may aid digestion. Stir frying with minimal oil keeps this dish lighter than deep-fried alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Savory Black Pepper Chicken brings restaurant-quality flavor into your kitchen in under 30 minutes. With bold cracked pepper, tender chicken, and a glossy stir fry sauce, it’s the perfect quick weeknight chicken dinner.

Whether served for family dinner or meal prep, this easy Asian chicken recipe delivers big flavor with simple steps.