Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry
Quick and flavorful Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry that combines tender chicken with crisp vegetables in a bold, peppery sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this versatile and healthy dish is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps.
- Author: Kathy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced thinly
Vegetables
- 1–2 bell peppers, sliced into strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced into strips
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Oils
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil (based on preference)
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Slice chicken into thin, bite-sized pieces. Chop bell peppers and onion into strips, mince garlic. Set out all sauces and seasonings for easy access during cooking.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce, oyster sauce, half of the freshly ground black pepper, and cornstarch. Let marinate for 10 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Stir-Fry the Chicken: Heat wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Quickly stir-fry marinated chicken until cooked through and slightly browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Add onions and bell peppers, stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes, preserving vibrant texture and flavor.
- Combine and Season: Return chicken to pan, add minced garlic, remaining black pepper, and optional additional soy or oyster sauce. Stir thoroughly and cook for 1-2 minutes to marry flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer stir-fry to plates or serving dish while hot. Sprinkle with sliced green onions if desired. Serve with rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps.
Notes
- Use freshly ground black pepper for livelier, spicier flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; stir-fry in batches if necessary to keep ingredients sizzling.
- Cook on high heat to seal juices, crisp vegetables, and avoid sogginess.
- Marinate chicken even briefly to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Use a good wok or nonstick pan for even heat and easier tossing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: black pepper chicken, stir-fry, quick dinner, Asian stir-fry, healthy chicken recipe, spicy chicken, weeknight meal