Black Pepper Chicken is a Chinese-American dish that features tender chicken pieces stir-fried with vegetables and coated in a savory black pepper sauce. Unlike traditional Chinese dishes that often use white pepper, this recipe highlights the robust and floral notes of black pepper, making it a unique and flavorful option.

To make a delightful Black Pepper Chicken that rivals your favorite buffet, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp coconut aminos (or soy sauce)
¼ tsp coarse sea salt
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp garlic powder

1 medium red bell pepper, diced
6 oz celery stalks, sliced diagonally
3.5 oz yellow onion, diced

½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
1.5 tbsp peach, apricot, or orange jam (for sweetness)
1.5 tbsp coconut aminos (or soy sauce)
2 tbsp chicken broth or vegetable stock
Optional: ½ tsp Sichuan peppercorn powder for an extra kick

¼ cup avocado oil (or another high smoke point oil)
¼ cup tapioca starch (or cornstarch)

In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with coconut aminos, salt, baking soda, and garlic powder. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

In a separate bowl, mix together the ingredients for the black pepper sauce: freshly ground black pepper, fruit jam, coconut aminos, and chicken broth. Set this aside for later use.

Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Lightly coat the marinated chicken with tapioca starch, then add it to the hot oil in a single layer. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary, and toss in the diced bell pepper, celery, and onion. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared black pepper sauce and stir to combine everything. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.

Serve your Black Pepper Chicken hot, paired with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete meal.

Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper: The flavor of freshly ground black pepper is far superior to pre-ground varieties. It adds a depth of flavor that is essential for this dish.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of Sichuan peppercorn powder for an additional layer of flavor.
Batch Cooking: If making a larger quantity, cook the chicken in batches to ensure each piece gets a nice sear and remains juicy.

Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful dish that brings the essence of Chinese buffets right to your kitchen. With its tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory black pepper sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is simple to follow and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy the rich flavors and the delightful experience of dining at a Chinese buffet from the comfort of your home!