Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry
Quick and flavorful Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry featuring tender chicken, crisp bell peppers, and onions, all coated in a bold black pepper and savory soy sauce blend. Ready in under 30 minutes, this versatile and healthy stir-fry is perfect for busy weeknights and easily adaptable to your preferred proteins and vegetables.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
- 1 red or green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (generous amount)
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
Oils
- 1 to 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the chicken into thin, bite-sized strips to ensure quick, even cooking. Chop the bell peppers and onions into strips, and finely mince the garlic to blend seamlessly with other flavors.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce if using, freshly ground black pepper, and a splash of water or chicken broth to create a bold, savory sauce that ties the dish together.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic, stir-frying quickly for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are vibrant, slightly tender, but still crisp.
- Combine and Finish: Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the sauce mixture. Stir everything well to coat and let the sauce thicken slightly for 1-2 minutes until heated through and aromatic. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- Slice chicken thinly for tender, quick-cooking pieces.
- Use freshly ground black pepper for a fragrant and authentic flavor.
- Cook on high heat to sear quickly and lock in juices.
- Do not overcook vegetables; keep them crisp-tender for the best texture.
- Use a wok if available for even and fast stir-frying.
- Optional: Add chili flakes or fresh chilies for more heat.
- For gluten-free, substitute tamari for soy sauce and use vegetarian oyster sauce or skip it.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: black pepper chicken, chicken stir-fry, quick dinner, Asian stir-fry, healthy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, spicy chicken