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A close-up shot of Black Pepper Chicken stir-fry in a bowl with white rice. The tender chicken pieces are coated in a savory, glossy sauce.

Black Pepper Chicken (Better Than Takeout!)

This Black Pepper Chicken recipe is better than takeout and ready in under 30 minutes! Featuring ultra-tender chicken in a bold, savory black pepper sauce, it's the perfect easy and delicious weeknight stir-fry.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 395

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
For the Sauce and Stir-fry
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth low-sodium
  • 3 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1.5 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil or other high-heat oil, divided
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Wok
  • 2 Mixing Bowls

Instructions
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and cornstarch. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, oyster sauce, 1 tbsp soy sauce, rice vinegar, and coarsely ground black pepper. Set aside.
  3. Heat 1 tbsp of avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook for 2-3 minutes, until crisp-tender. Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Once it bubbles and thickens slightly (about 1 minute), return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything to combine and coat well with the sauce. Serve immediately with hot rice.

Notes

Use Coarse Pepper: For the best flavor and texture, use coarsely ground black pepper. The bold, pungent taste is essential to the dish.
Don't Crowd the Pan: Ensure the chicken gets a good sear by not overcrowding the pan. Cook in two batches if your skillet isn't large enough.
Prep Ahead: Stir-frying moves quickly, so have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you turn on the heat.
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