If you love bold flavors with a delightful kick, this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is going to be your new favorite weeknight go-to. Juicy chicken thighs coated with a light cornstarch crispness meet a savory sauce packed with soy, garlic, and just the right amount of black pepper heat. Toss in some softened onions and celery for crunch and color, and you get a vibrant meal that’s as tasty as it is quick to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a simple yet satisfying dinner for yourself, this recipe delivers all the comfort and excitement you want on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate filled with a mix of three main layers: the first layer consists of small, golden-brown cooked chicken pieces spread evenly across the plate; the second layer shows light pinkish-purple chopped onion pieces scattered between the chicken; and the third layer features bright green celery slices placed throughout, adding a fresh look. The food is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The success of a delicious Black Pepper Chicken Recipe really comes down to a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role. From the tender chicken thighs that form the hearty base to the cornstarch that gives a perfect light crust, every item contributes to the texture, flavor, and balance of the dish.

Canola oil (3 tablespoons): Ideal for stir-frying because it withstands high heat without overpowering the flavors.
Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Coats the chicken for a slightly crispy exterior that locks in juicy tenderness.
Boneless skinless chicken thighs (1 pound): These pieces stay tender and flavorful, perfect for absorbing the sauce.
Red onion (1, thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
Celery (2 stalks, sliced on the bias): Brings a fresh crunch and subtle earthiness.
Low-sodium soy sauce (1/2 cup): Provides a savory umami backbone without too much saltiness.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Intensifies the aroma and adds depth to the sauce.
Honey (1 tablespoon): Balances the heat and acidity with a gentle sweetness.
Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Lifts the flavors with a clean, tangy brightness.
Black pepper (1 to 2 teaspoons): The star of the dish, bringing peppery warmth that you can adjust to your taste.
Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle zing that complements the pepper wonderfully.

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Coat the Chicken

Start by cutting the boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces so each one cooks evenly and stays juicy. Toss them with the cornstarch in a bowl, ensuring that each piece gets a light, even coating. This step is key to achieving that deliciously delicate crust when frying.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces, shaking off any excess starch beforehand to prevent clumping. Stir fry for about 5 to 6 minutes until every side is beautifully browned and the chicken is cooked through. Then, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Celery

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of canola oil. Toss in the thinly sliced red onion and celery cut on the bias, which helps maximize crunch and surface area. Stir fry these vegetables for 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Step 4: Whisk the Sauce

While the vegetables soften, combine low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, honey, rice vinegar, black pepper, and ground ginger in a small bowl. Whisk everything together until well blended. This savory-sweet-spicy sauce is the heart of the Black Pepper Chicken Recipe, delivering all the layers of flavor you crave.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the softened vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. The sauce will thicken slightly, coating every piece of chicken and vegetable in a glossy, flavorful glaze. Then, remove the skillet from heat and get ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve Over Rice

Your Black Pepper Chicken is best enjoyed right away, spooned over a bed of steaming hot rice that soaks up all those delicious juices. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any meal.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

A white bowl filled with a vibrant chicken stir-fry dish featuring many small pieces of golden-brown chicken layered throughout. Mixed among the chicken are chunks of bright green bell peppers and slices of pinkish-red onions, all coated in a shiny, thick brown sauce that adds a glossy texture to the dish. The colors and textures create a lively contrast with the white bowl and the white marbled surface underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add a fresh touch by sprinkling chopped green onions or a handful of toasted sesame seeds over the top. This adds a subtle crunch and a vibrant pop of color that makes the dish feel special and inviting. A few sprigs of cilantro can also brighten the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Keep it classic with steamed white or jasmine rice to soak up the sauce, or mix it up with fried rice for extra flavor. For a light balance, steamed or stir-fried green vegetables like bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli make fantastic companions that keep the meal fresh and hearty.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, try serving the Black Pepper Chicken Recipe over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb twist, or roll it up in lettuce leaves as a fresh, handheld option. It also makes a tasty filling for wraps or even stuffed in pita pockets for casual lunches or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken separate from rice ensures the veggies stay crisp and the flavors remain fresh. It reheats beautifully, making for an easy second-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Black Pepper Chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag for up to 1 month. To maintain the texture, it’s best to freeze the chicken and vegetables without the rice. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works as well but stir occasionally to heat evenly and keep the chicken tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely, you can substitute chicken breast if you prefer; just keep in mind that breasts are leaner and can dry out faster, so cook them carefully to retain juiciness.

How spicy is this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe?

The spiciness depends on how much black pepper you add. The recipe allows you to adjust from a mild warmth with 1 teaspoon to a bolder kick at 2 teaspoons. Feel free to tweak it to suit your taste buds!

Is cornstarch necessary in the recipe?

Cornstarch helps to create a satisfying light crust on the chicken and allows the sauce to cling better. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot or a little flour, but the texture might be slightly different.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

While this particular recipe is designed for chicken, you can swap in firm tofu or tempeh and adjust cooking times accordingly to create a delicious vegan version with the same bold flavors.

What type of rice pairs best with Black Pepper Chicken Recipe?

Jasmine rice or plain steamed white rice work beautifully since their subtle flavors complement the bold peppery sauce without overpowering it. Brown rice also adds a nice nuttiness if you want a healthier option.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe, it will become a regular star in your dinner rotation. It’s quick, full of flavor, and perfectly balanced between peppery heat and subtle sweetness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this dish never fails to deliver that comforting yet exciting meal experience. Don’t wait to give it a go—you’ll be so glad you did!