Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry

Oh wow, have you tried making black pepper chicken stir fry? It’s so easy and tastes just like a restaurant! I love how quick it is to whip up.

The chicken is juicy and coated in a yummy peppery sauce. It’s sweet, savory, and just the right amount of spicy. Every bite makes me want more!

I love how the sauce sticks to the chicken. It’s so good with rice or noodles. You’ll want to make this again and again!

Let’s cook this stir fry together! You’ll be so happy you tried it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This stir fry comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bold and Flavorful: The kick from black pepper, the savory richness of soy sauce, and the slight sweetness of oyster sauce create a mouthwatering combination.
• Customizable: You can add or swap in any veggies you have on hand to make this dish your own.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, and this stir fry is ready in no time!
• Healthy & Balanced: Packed with lean protein from chicken and loaded with colorful vegetables, this stir fry is a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we get started, here’s a quick list of tools you’ll need to make this stir fry:

• Large Skillet or Wok: A wide surface helps cook the ingredients evenly and gives you room to stir everything around.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping your veggies and chicken.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy with the sauces and cornstarch.
• Mixing Bowls: For preparing the chicken and sauce.
• Tongs or Spatula: To toss everything together and prevent sticking.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delectable stir fry (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Oil (divided): You’ll need oil to cook the chicken and stir-fry the vegetables. I recommend using vegetable or peanut oil for high-heat cooking.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken (cut into 1-inch cubes): The star of this dish! You’ll want the chicken to be tender and easy to eat in bite-sized pieces.
• Shallots or Red Onion (sliced): A mild, sweet onion adds a great base flavor.
• Bell Pepper (any color): Adds a pop of color and a mild sweetness to the dish.
• Celery Stalks (sliced into ½-inch pieces): Adds crunch and freshness to the stir fry.
• Garlic Cloves (minced): The key aromatic ingredient that adds depth and fragrance to the stir fry.
• Ginger (grated or minced): Fresh ginger brings a peppery, spicy note that complements the black pepper.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Provides that savory, salty umami flavor that binds the stir fry together.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds a bit of sweetness and richness, balancing the savory soy sauce.
• Coarse Ground Pepper: The star seasoning in this dish, giving the stir fry that signature peppery heat.
• Cornstarch (divided): Used to help thicken the sauce and create a nice glaze for the chicken and veggies.

Variations for Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry

• Add More Heat: If you love spice, you can add some sliced chili peppers or a splash of chili sauce to the stir fry for extra heat.
• Swap Out Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as snap peas, carrots, broccoli, or mushrooms depending on what you have available.
• Use Beef or Shrimp: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily swap it for thinly sliced beef or shrimp for a different protein.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free for a delicious gluten-free version of this stir fry.
• Add a Sweet Note: If you enjoy a touch of sweetness, drizzle some honey or maple syrup into the sauce for a delightful contrast to the savory elements.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure to chop all your ingredients. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, slice the bell pepper and celery, and mince the garlic and ginger. Have everything ready to go, as stir-frying is a quick process!

2. Coat the Chicken with Cornstarch

Toss the diced chicken in a tablespoon of cornstarch. This will help the chicken become crispy and golden when cooked and will also help thicken the sauce later.

3. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat about a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Stir-fry the chicken for 5-6 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and golden on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Toss in the garlic, ginger, and shallots (or red onion), and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the bell pepper and celery. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

5. Make the Sauce

While the vegetables are cooking, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and coarse ground black pepper in a small bowl. Add the remaining cornstarch (about 1 tablespoon) to the sauce and whisk until smooth. The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce and coat the chicken and veggies.

6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Once the vegetables are cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Once the sauce has thickened and the stir fry is hot, it’s ready to serve! You can serve this dish over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy it as is for a low-carb option.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Over Rice: Serve the stir fry over white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Noodles: Serve with stir-fried noodles or even rice noodles for a comforting noodle bowl.
• In Wraps: Wrap the stir fry in lettuce leaves for a lighter, gluten-free option.
• With a Side Salad: A refreshing cucumber or Asian slaw salad pairs beautifully with this warm and savory stir fry.

Storing Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry

If you have leftovers (which I highly recommend), this stir fry stores wonderfully for future meals.

• In the Refrigerator: You can store the cooked stir fry in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. When ready to reheat, simply warm it up in the skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also reheat it in the microwave for a quick meal, but I find that the stovetop retains the texture of the veggies better.
• In the Freezer: If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can freeze the stir fry for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it into a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then heat it through in a skillet. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even reheating.
• Rice or Noodles: If you’ve served the stir fry with rice or noodles, they can also be stored separately. Rice can last up to 4 days in the fridge, and noodles typically last 3-4 days. For best results, store these components separately and combine when reheating.

Nutrition for Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for one serving of Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry (assuming 4 servings):

Nutrition Information	Amount Per Serving
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fiber	2g
Sugars	4g
Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	70mg
Sodium	800mg
Potassium	550mg
Vitamin A	25% Daily Value
Vitamin C	60% Daily Value
Iron	10% Daily Value

Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on the exact ingredients used, particularly the soy sauce and oyster sauce, so it’s always a good idea to check labels if you’re watching sodium or other nutrients.

Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry FAQs

Can I make this stir fry spicier?

Absolutely! If you love more heat, you can increase the amount of freshly cracked black pepper in the sauce. Additionally, you can add chili flakes, sliced jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce to give it that extra kick.

Can I use a different protein in this recipe?

Yes, you can easily substitute the chicken with other proteins such as beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu. If you’re using beef, I recommend flank steak or sirloin, sliced thinly. For shrimp, just be sure to cook them quickly (around 2-3 minutes) as they cook much faster than chicken.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?

Certainly! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver, and they work perfectly in stir fry dishes. You can use a mix of frozen bell peppers, carrots, peas, or any veggies you like. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using so you don’t get too much excess water in the stir fry.

How can I make this stir fry gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, just use tamari sauce in place of the soy sauce and ensure that your oyster sauce is gluten-free. Many brands now offer gluten-free alternatives for both sauces, so this swap will make the entire dish gluten-free while still maintaining all the rich flavors.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes, this stir fry is perfect for meal prepping! You can cook a large batch and divide it into containers for the week. Just keep the stir fry in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’re pairing it with rice or noodles, store the stir fry and carbs separately to avoid sogginess.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover stir fry?

The best way to reheat leftover stir fry is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the chicken from drying out. Stir occasionally, and cook until it’s heated through. You can also use the microwave, but the stovetop will help maintain the texture of the veggies and chicken.

Can I make this stir fry ahead of time and store it?

Yes! You can make the entire stir fry ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s perfect for meal prep and makes for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner. If you’re prepping in advance, I recommend cooking the chicken and vegetables separately and then combining them with the sauce on the day you plan to serve for the best texture.

Final Thoughts on Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry

If you’ve never tried a stir fry with such a bold peppery kick, then you’re in for a treat with this Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry. It’s the kind of dish that combines simple ingredients and transforms them into something full of flavor and satisfying to the taste buds. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner, looking for a meal prep recipe, or want something packed with spice and savory goodness, this stir fry has got you covered.

The combination of the perfectly cooked chicken, the peppery sauce, and the crisp veggies is irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own. The best part is, it’s quick and easy to make—ready in just 30 minutes!

This is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for those days when you need a delicious, healthy, and flavor-packed meal in no time.