Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice – Bold, Colorful & Quick to Make

A Weeknight Favorite Bursting with Flavor and Color

Some recipes were simply made for those busy, midweek evenings when you want something delicious, bold, and satisfying—without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s exactly where this Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice comes in. Imagine a plate filled with juicy chicken pieces, vibrant bell peppers, and caramelized onions—all coated in a glossy, peppery sauce that delivers just the right amount of kick. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly customizable.

Inspired by the bold flavors of Asian street food and the practicality of stir-fry dishes, this recipe is perfect when you’re craving takeout but want something healthier and homemade. Whether you’re cooking for two or doubling the batch for meal prep, this dish is a must-try for any home cook seeking something quick and colorful.

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Why You’ll Love This Stir-Fry

• Ready in under 30 minutes: Including prep and cook time, this recipe is weeknight-friendly and fuss-free.

• Customizable: Swap in tofu, shrimp, or even pineapple chunks for a twist.

• Full of flavor: The combination of black pepper, soy, and oyster sauce delivers deep umami and savory notes.

• Colorful and nutritious: With bell peppers and onions, it’s as healthy as it is vibrant.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken breast or thigh, diced: Choose thighs for more juiciness or breasts for a leaner version.

• Bell peppers (red and green), sliced: These add crunch, color, and natural sweetness.

• Onion, chopped: Enhances the savory flavor and adds texture.

• Garlic, minced: Essential for that fragrant base.

• Soy sauce: Brings a salty, umami flavor.

• Oyster sauce: Adds depth and a touch of sweetness.

• Cornstarch: Helps the chicken brown beautifully and thickens the sauce.

• Ground black pepper: The star of the show—don’t skimp!

• Cooked white rice: Serve hot as the perfect base.

• Oil for frying: Vegetable or peanut oil works best for high-heat cooking.

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Optional Add-ins for a Twist

• Chili flakes: Turn up the heat with a sprinkle of spice.

• Pineapple chunks: For a sweet-and-savory tropical twist.

• Tofu: A vegetarian alternative that soaks up the sauce beautifully.

• Sesame seeds or green onions: Add as garnish for flavor and presentation.

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How to Make Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry

Follow these simple steps for a delicious, quick-cooked meal:

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Dice your chicken into bite-sized pieces.

• Slice bell peppers and chop onions.

• Mince your garlic.

Step 2: Season and Coat the Chicken

In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with:

• A spoonful of cornstarch

• A generous amount of freshly ground black pepper

This coating not only helps the chicken crisp up when frying but also locks in moisture and flavor.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

• Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

• Add the chicken pieces and sear until golden and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes).

• Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

• In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed.

• Toss in the garlic, onions, and bell peppers.

• Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, just until the vegetables are slightly tender but still vibrant.

Step 5: Combine and Sauce

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan.

• Add soy sauce and oyster sauce.

• Stir everything together so that the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated.

• Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly reduce and thicken.

Step 6: Serve

• Spoon the stir-fry over a bed of hot, steamed white rice.

• Garnish with optional sesame seeds or chopped scallions if desired.

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Tips for Success

1. Use High Heat

Stir-fry cooking relies on high heat to quickly cook and caramelize ingredients. Make sure your pan is hot before adding anything to achieve that authentic wok flavor.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Cook the chicken in batches if needed. Crowding the pan lowers the heat and causes the meat to steam instead of sear.

3. Prep Everything First

This is a fast-moving recipe. Have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you start cooking.

4. Freshly Cracked Pepper is Best

For maximum aroma and flavor, grind your black pepper fresh instead of using pre-ground.

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Nutritional Benefits

Each serving of this dish comes in at around 480 calories, making it a balanced option for dinner. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Protein: Chicken provides a lean and satisfying protein source.

• Vegetables: Bell peppers and onions are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.

• Carbs: Served over rice, it provides energy without excess fat.

If you’re looking to lighten it further, you can:

• Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice

• Use chicken breast instead of thighs

• Reduce the amount of oil used

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Storage & Meal Prep Tips

This dish stores beautifully and can be prepped in advance:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: You can freeze the chicken stir-fry (without the rice) for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Warm it up in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the flavors.

Meal prepping? Make a double batch and portion into containers with rice. It’s a fantastic lunch to take to work or school.

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Make It a Meal: Side Dish Ideas

While this stir-fry is satisfying on its own, you can round out your meal with:

• Cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing

• Miso soup or hot and sour soup

• Steamed edamame

• Spring rolls or dumplings

These additions can turn a simple dinner into a full Asian-inspired feast.

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Cultural Roots of Stir-Fry Cooking

Stir-frying is a centuries-old technique that originates in Chinese cuisine, specifically from the Cantonese region. The method was developed as a quick and efficient way to cook using minimal fuel. It relies on high heat, quick movement, and fresh ingredients—all hallmarks of the recipe shared here.

The black pepper element is especially popular in dishes from southern China and Southeast Asia, where bold, spicy flavors are celebrated. This recipe pays homage to those traditions while adapting for ease and availability in the modern home kitchen.

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Reader Favorites & Variations

We’ve received plenty of great feedback and variations from readers who’ve tried similar recipes:

• “I added broccoli and it turned out fantastic—like something from a restaurant!”

• “Used tofu instead of chicken and it was just as delicious.”

• “Added pineapple for a sweet contrast—highly recommend!”

Don’t be afraid to play around with what you have in your fridge. This dish is very forgiving and flexible.

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Final Thoughts: Your New Weeknight Hero

There’s something deeply satisfying about cooking a dish that’s quick, easy, and packs a punch of flavor. This Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice ticks all the boxes. It’s ideal for weeknights, great for guests, and versatile enough to adapt to different dietary preferences.

From the rich, peppery sauce to the vibrant veggies and juicy chicken, this is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. It’s not just food—it’s a flavorful experience you can create in under 30 minutes.

So, fire up your skillet, grab those ingredients, and treat yourself to a bold stir-fry that will make your taste buds sing.

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Did You Make This Recipe?

We’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Share your version of this Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry and tag us on social media. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and leave a comment below with your favorite twist!

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