When you’re craving something savory with a punch of spice, this Chinese Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry hits all the right notes. Packed with succulent chicken, fresh vegetables, and the bold flavor of freshly ground black pepper, this dish is a perfect balance of heat, umami, and texture. Quick and easy to make, it’s a delicious way to bring restaurant-quality Chinese flavors into your own kitchen. Let’s walk through the steps of creating this vibrant, peppery chicken stir-fry that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even special occasions!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (1 kilogram) skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- 2-3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 5 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 3 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, cut into cubes
- 1 ½ tablespoons of freshly cracked black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken strips with the soy sauce, minced ginger, and cornstarch. Toss to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes. The cornstarch will help create a light crust when the chicken is stir-fried, while the ginger adds a fragrant note. - Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a pinch of salt. This will form the base of the stir-fry sauce, adding tanginess and a nutty aroma to the dish. - Stir-Fry the Chicken:
Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Stir-fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. - Cook the Vegetables:
In the same wok or skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Toss in the sliced celery and cubed onions, stir-frying for about 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly but still retain a bit of crunch. Season the vegetables with a little salt to enhance their flavor. - Bring It All Together:
Return the cooked chicken to the wok, along with the stir-fry sauce. Sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper generously over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken and veggies are evenly coated in the sauce and pepper. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more pepper or salt to your liking. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is coated in the rich black pepper sauce and the vegetables are tender-crisp, remove the stir-fry from the heat. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles, and garnish with additional fresh black pepper or sliced scallions if desired.
Conclusion:
This Chinese Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that will quickly become a favorite. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and the fiery kick of freshly ground black pepper creates a delightful harmony of tastes and textures. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this stir-fry is versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or your favorite sides. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy an authentic and satisfying Chinese meal right at home.