Introduction
Looking for a fast, flavorful dinner that delivers on every bite? This Black Pepper Chicken stir-fry is your new go-to. With tender marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and a generous hit of freshly ground black pepper, it’s packed with bold, satisfying flavor—without being complicated.
Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is quick, budget-friendly, and better than takeout.
Why I Love This Recipe
What makes this recipe a standout is its simplicity meets bold flavor. The soy-marinated chicken turns tender and juicy, while the punchy black pepper adds warmth and spice without overwhelming heat. Sautéed onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger create an aromatic base that’s hearty and healthy.
It’s also a one-pan wonder—easy cleanup, quick cook time, and tons of flavor in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces 🍗
- 2 tbsp soy sauce 🍜
- 1 tbsp cornstarch 🌽
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil 🛢️
- 1 bell pepper, sliced 🌶️
- 1 onion, sliced 🧅
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 inch ginger, minced 🥢
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 🧂
- ½ tsp salt 🧂
- 2 green onions, chopped, for garnish 🌿
- Optional: Cooked rice, for serving 🍚
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine:
- Chicken pieces
- Soy sauce
- Cornstarch
Mix to coat and let marinate for 15 minutes while you prep the veggies.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in:
- Bell pepper
- Onion
- Garlic
- Ginger
Cook for 3–4 minutes, until tender-crisp and fragrant.
4️⃣ Combine & Season
Return the chicken to the skillet.
Add black pepper and salt, stirring to coat everything evenly.
Cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
5️⃣ Serve & Garnish
Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice.
Top with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Tips for Success
- Slice your chicken evenly for quick, even cooking.
- Freshly ground black pepper makes all the difference—use a coarse grind for best results.
- Add extra veggies like snow peas, broccoli, or baby corn to bulk it up.
- Meal prep friendly: Store in individual containers with rice for a ready-to-go lunch.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve this Black Pepper Chicken over:
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist
- Noodles for a stir-fry-inspired pasta bowl
Pair with:
- 🌯 Sheet Pan Quesadillas – for a fusion meal night
- 🍗 Easy Turkey Wings – double the protein options for a crowd
- 🍳 One-Pan Breakfast Bake – make it a brunch-for-dinner situation
- 🍋 Blueberry Lemonade – for a citrusy cool-down
- 🍪 Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites – because dessert is always a good idea
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
- Freeze: Cooled leftovers can be frozen for up to 1 month—thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- 🌯 Sheet Pan Quesadillas – quick, cheesy, and shareable
- 🍗 Easy Turkey Wings – bold, baked, and cozy
- 🍋 Blueberry Lemonade – the perfect pairing for spice
Final Thoughts
This Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and delicious dinner that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. It’s tender, peppery, and full of vibrant stir-fried vegetables—a surefire hit for weeknight dinners or easy lunches.
If you try it, tag @chefmaniac and show us your stir-fry skills! Follow for more quick dinner wins, cozy comfort food, and globally inspired meals that keep your weeknights flavorful.
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