Better Than Takeout: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken Recipe You Can Make at Home!

 

Introduction

Craving a takeout favorite that’s bold, spicy, and incredibly easy to make? Meet your new go-to stir-fry: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken! A classic dish found in Chinese restaurants worldwide, known for its rich, umami-packed black pepper sauce. In this Blog we will learn the step-by-step recipe to make restaurant style Chinese Black Pepper Chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

If you love bold, peppery flavors, this Chinese Black Pepper Chicken is a must-try! This stir-fry dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a savory black pepper sauce that’s better than takeout. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Why Make This at Home?

• Healthier than takeout – No added MSG or excessive oil
• Quick & Easy – Done in just 30 minutes!
• Authentic Restaurant Flavor – Freshly ground black pepper adds the perfect kick.
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels and add your favorite veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breast), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp black pepper (freshly ground)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color and depth)
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water for a slurry)
  
  

For Stir-Frying:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
• 1 tbsp coarsely ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp sesame oil (for finishing)
  
  

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Let it sit for 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce. This step keeps the chicken juicy and tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Black Pepper Sauce
In a small bowl, mix oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and chicken broth. Stir well and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over high heat.
2. Add marinated chicken and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
   
   

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics & Vegetables

1. In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed.
2. Toss in garlic and ginger, stir-frying until fragrant.
3. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking for 1-2 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything & Serve

1. Return the chicken to the pan.
2. Pour in the black pepper sauce and stir well.
3. Add cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the sauce coats the chicken and veggies.
4. Drizzle with sesame oil and give it a final toss.
5. Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles.
   
   

Pro Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken

• Use freshly ground black pepper for the best aroma and taste.
• Don’t overcook the veggies – Keep them crisp for the perfect stir-fry texture.
• High heat is key – Stir-frying on high heat ensures a restaurant-quality dish.
• Want extra spice? Add a pinch of red chili flakes or sliced Thai chilies.
  
  

What to Serve with Black Pepper Chicken

• Rice: Steamed jasmine rice or garlic fried rice.
• Noodles: Tossed lo mein or stir-fried chow mein.
• Vegetables: Stir-fried bok choy or broccoli for a balanced meal.
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap chicken for firm tofu or mushrooms, and use vegetarian oyster sauce.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan for the best texture.

3. What’s the best black pepper to use?

Use freshly ground black pepper from whole peppercorns for maximum flavor.

Final Thoughts
This Chinese Black Pepper Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that’s easy to make at home. It’s quick, delicious, and better than takeout! Give it a try, and let me know in the comments how it turned out.

📌 If you love this recipe, share it on Pinterest and tag @TasteTravellerTales on Instagram!

💬 What’s your favorite Chinese stir-fry dish? Let’s chat in the comments below! 🍽️