Name: Pepper Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: For Marinade:; 4 chicken breasts; 2 tbsp light soy sauce; 1 tsp garlic; 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil; 1 tsp ground black pepper; For Stir Fry:; ¼ cup oyster sauce; 2 tbsp light soy sauce; 2 tbsp vinegar; 1 tsp ground black pepper; ½ cup water; 3 tbsp cornstarch; 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil; 1 Large Onion; 1 medium green bell pepper; 1 medium red bell pepper; 4 garlic cloves; 1 ginger

This delectable pepper chicken stir fry is a quick and easy dish that packs a punch of flavor. It uses a mix of savory sauces and aromatic spices, combined with tender chicken and crisp, colorful bell peppers. It's a perfect weeknight dinner that's not only satisfying but also loaded with healthy ingredients.

Photos of Pepper Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

The recipe calls for some ingredients that may not be staples in your pantry, such as oyster sauce and toasted sesame oil. Oyster sauce, typically found in the Asian section of supermarkets, imparts a unique umami flavor. Toasted sesame oil, on the other hand, provides a rich, nutty essence. Don't substitute regular sesame oil for toasted, as the flavor profiles are drastically different.

Pepper Chicken Stir Fry Ingredients

Chicken breasts: This lean meat is a great source of protein. If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute it with chicken thighs.

Light soy sauce: It's less salty and has a more delicate flavor compared to regular soy sauce.

Garlic: It adds a robust flavor, essential in most stir-fry dishes.

Toasted sesame oil: Gives the dish a rich, nutty flavor.

Ground black pepper: Adds a sharp hot taste.

Oyster sauce: It's a thick, brown sauce with a balance of salty and sweet flavors.

Vinegar: Provides a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the other sauces.

Water: Thins the sauce for the perfect consistency.

Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy finish.

Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the ingredients.

Onion: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.

Green bell pepper and Red bell pepper: Adds color, crunch and a mild sweet flavor.

Ginger: Adds a zingy and warm flavor.

One reader, Flora Wentworth says:

This pepper chicken stir fry recipe is a game-changer! The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, and the stir-fry sauce is a perfect balance of savory and tangy. The combination of peppers, onions, and ginger adds a delightful crunch. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious, homemade stir-fry!

Flora Wentworth

Essential Techniques for Making Pepper Chicken Stir Fry

Marinade: Combine the chicken, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper in a bowl, then set aside for at least 15 minutes.

Stir-fry: Whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, black pepper, water, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Set aside.

Tossing the chicken in cornstarch: Once the chicken has been marinated, toss it in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cornstarch.

Cooking the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan and add the chicken pieces. Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken pieces on high heat for 3 minutes on each side. Remove the pieces from the pan and set them aside.

Cooking the vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan on high heat, then add the onions and bell peppers. Toss them in the pan for 1 to 2 minutes until they brighten up in color and have been cooked slightly.

Simmering the sauce: Toss in the ginger and garlic, and cook for another minute. Add the chicken pieces and sauce mixture to the pan. Toss everything well, and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken well.

How To Make Pepper Chicken Stir Fry

Grab a bite of this charred chicken stir fry, mixed with tender bell peppers in a savory sauce, for a hearty and well-balanced meal!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Marinade:

4chicken breasts,cut into 1-inch pieces
2tbsplight soy sauce
1tspgarlic,minced
1tbsptoasted sesame oil
1tspground black pepper

For Stir Fry:

¼cupoyster sauce
2tbsplight soy sauce
2tbspvinegar
1tspground black pepper
½cupwater
3tbspcornstarch,divided
3tbspvegetable oil,divided
1large onion,cut into 1-inch pieces
1medium green bell pepper,cut into 1-inch pieces
1medium red bell pepper,cut into 1-inch pieces
4garlic cloves,finely chopped
1ginger,(1-inch piece), finely chopped

Instructions

Marinade:

Combine the chicken, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper in a bowl, then set aside for at least 15 minutes.

Stir-Fry:

Whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, black pepper, water, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Set aside.
Once the chicken has been marinated, toss it in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cornstarch.
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan and add the chicken pieces. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Cook the chicken pieces on high heat for 3 minutes on each side. Remove the pieces from the pan and set them aside.
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan on high heat, then add the onions and bell peppers. Toss them in the pan for 1 to 2 minutes until they brighten up in color and have been cooked slightly.
Toss in the ginger and garlic, and cook for another minute. Add the chicken pieces and sauce mixture to the pan.
Toss everything well, and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken well.
Serve hot with steamed rice or veggies on the side, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 514.20kcal
Fat: 30.43g
Saturated Fat: 5.90g
Trans Fat: 0.26g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.62g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.75g
Carbohydrates: 19.54g
Fiber: 2.64g
Sugar: 3.93g
Protein: 39.41g
Cholesterol: 111.36mg
Sodium: 1120.74mg
Calcium: 58.49mg
Potassium: 704.79mg
Iron: 2.11mg
Vitamin A: 94.13µg
Vitamin C: 66.61mg

Stir Fry Technique Tip for Perfect Results

When stir-frying, it's important to keep the ingredients moving constantly to ensure even cooking and prevent them from burning. This is especially crucial when cooking with high heat as in this pepper chicken stir fry recipe. Also, cutting the chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes will ensure that they cook evenly. Lastly, remember to add the ingredients that take longer to cook first, like the onion and bell peppers, and those that cook quickly, like the garlic and ginger, towards the end. This will ensure that all the ingredients are perfectly cooked at the same time.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Stir Fry

Marinate efficiently: To save time, marinate the chicken the night before or in the morning before starting your day. This will allow the flavors to develop, and you can simply toss the marinated chicken in cornstarch when you're ready to cook.

Prep ahead: Chop the vegetables and measure out the sauces and spices in advance. This way, when it's time to cook, everything is ready to go, making the stir-fry process much quicker and smoother.

High heat cooking: Use high heat to cook the chicken quickly and retain its juiciness. This also helps to cook the vegetables fast while maintaining their crunch, resulting in a flavorful stir-fry in no time.

Multi-task: While the chicken is marinating or cooking, use that time to prepare the rice or any side dishes you plan to serve with the stir-fry. This will help you have a complete meal ready in a shorter amount of time.

One-pan clean-up: Opt for a large skillet or wok to cook the entire dish. This not only saves time on cleaning multiple pots and pans but also allows for quick and efficient cooking of the entire stir-fry in one go.

Substitute Ingredients For Pepper Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe. They have a similar texture and can absorb the marinade and flavors just like chicken.
Light soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a slightly richer flavor, which can add depth to the marinade and stir-fry sauce.
Toasted sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a nutty flavor similar to toasted sesame oil and can be used as a substitute in the marinade to add a rich and aromatic element to the dish.
Oyster sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce has a sweet and savory flavor similar to oyster sauce and can be used as a substitute to add depth and richness to the stir-fry sauce.
Vinegar - Substitute with rice vinegar: Rice vinegar has a mild and slightly sweet flavor, which can be a suitable substitute for vinegar in the stir-fry sauce, adding a tangy and acidic element to the dish.
Cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute for cornstarch to thicken the stir-fry sauce, providing a similar thickening effect without altering the flavor of the dish.
Vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the stir-fry and complementing the other ingredients in the dish.

Presenting Your Stir Fry Dish

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, pay attention to the arrangement of the components on the plate. Ensure that the chicken stir-fry is the focal point and is surrounded by vibrant and colorful vegetables.
Garnish with finesse: Add a final touch of elegance by garnishing the dish with freshly chopped scallions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a textural element by serving the pepper chicken stir-fry alongside a delicate cucumber salad. The crispness of the salad will complement the tender chicken, creating a harmonious balance.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Choose sophisticated and refined serving ware that complements the dish. Opt for minimalist, porcelain plates to showcase the vibrant colors of the stir-fry.
Emphasize precision in plating: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that the dish is presented with precision and attention to detail. This demonstrates a high level of culinary finesse.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stir Fry

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile and essential kitchen tool for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Wok: A versatile round-bottomed cooking vessel used for stir-frying, steaming, and more.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
Tongs: Used for flipping and gripping food items while cooking.
Large pan: A wide, flat-bottomed cooking vessel used for sautéing, frying, and stir-frying.
Whisk: Used for blending and mixing ingredients together smoothly.
Spatula: A flat cooking tool used for flipping, spreading, and turning food items.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves efficiently.
Grater: Used for grating ingredients like ginger and garlic.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining and mixing ingredients together.
Strainer: Used for straining liquids and separating solids from liquids.
Meat thermometer: Essential for checking the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked.
Rice cooker: Used for cooking rice to accompany the stir-fry dish.

Storing and Freezing Your Stir Fry Dish

Allow the pepper chicken stir fry to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the stir fry, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily identify it later.
When you're ready to eat the frozen stir fry, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed stir fry in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the chicken from drying out.
Alternatively, you can reheat the stir fry in the microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through.
If you want to freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals later, divide the cooled stir fry into single-serving containers or resealable plastic bags. This way, you can thaw and reheat only what you need.

How To Reheat Leftover Stir Fry

Reheat the pepper chicken stir fry in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of water, chicken broth, or soy sauce to help rehydrate the dish and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently until the chicken and vegetables are heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
For a quick and easy method, reheat the leftover stir fry in the microwave. Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. The damp paper towel will help keep the dish moist and prevent it from drying out.
If you have a bit more time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover pepper chicken stir fry to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the dish to crisp up slightly.
For a crispy texture, reheat the stir fry under the broiler. Spread the leftovers on a baking sheet lined with foil, and place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken and vegetables are heated through and slightly crispy on top. Keep a close eye on the dish to prevent burning.
If you have a steamer, you can also reheat the pepper chicken stir fry using this method. Place the leftovers in a heat-safe dish, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain the dish's moisture and flavors.

Interesting Fact About Pepper Chicken Stir Fry

The pepper chicken stir fry recipe is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. It is known for its bold flavors and the use of black pepper, which adds a unique and aromatic taste to the dish. The combination of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and vinegar creates a savory and slightly tangy sauce that complements the chicken and vegetables perfectly. This dish is a great source of protein and can be customized with different vegetables based on personal preferences. It's a quick and easy meal to prepare, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Is Making Stir Fry at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this pepper chicken stir fry recipe is quite favorable for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken breasts, bell peppers, and soy sauce, are generally affordable and readily available. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and economical choice for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Pepper Chicken Stir Fry Healthy or Unhealthy?

The pepper chicken stir fry recipe is a relatively healthy dish, but there are a few aspects that could be improved to make it even healthier. On the positive side, the recipe includes lean protein from the chicken breasts and a variety of colorful vegetables like onions, green and red bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. These ingredients provide essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. The use of light soy sauce and oyster sauce adds flavor without excessive sodium content.

However, the recipe also includes some less healthy components. The cornstarch used for thickening the sauce and coating the chicken adds extra carbohydrates and calories. The vegetable oil used for frying the chicken and sautéing the vegetables is high in fat and calories. Additionally, the recipe lacks a significant source of fiber, which is important for digestive health and satiety.

Replace the cornstarch with a healthier thickening agent like arrowroot powder or simply reduce the amount used
Use a healthier cooking oil like olive oil or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil
Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the dish to boost fiber and nutrient content
Serve the stir fry with a side of brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates
Reduce the amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce to lower the sodium content, and consider using low-sodium versions of these condiments
Add some crushed red pepper or sriracha sauce to increase the spiciness and boost metabolism

Editor's Opinion on This Stir Fry Recipe

This pepper chicken stir-fry recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses the chicken with a savory umami taste, while the stir-fry technique ensures a perfect balance of tenderness and crunch. The use of oyster sauce and vinegar adds depth to the dish, complementing the vibrant bell peppers and aromatic ginger and garlic. The result is a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and peppery notes that will tantalize the taste buds. This recipe is a wonderful choice for a quick and satisfying meal that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Pepper Chicken Stir Fry Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and butter, perfect for balancing the bold flavors of the pepper chicken stir fry.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, adding a refreshing and light element to the meal.

Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: A colorful and refreshing fruit salad tossed in a sweet and tangy honey-lime dressing, providing a burst of freshness to complement the savory stir fry.

Similar Stir Fry Recipes to Try

Spicy Beef Tacos: These spicy beef tacos are a perfect way to add some heat to your dinner. The combination of tender beef, spicy seasoning, and fresh toppings will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Mango Chicken Salad: This refreshing mango chicken salad is a delightful mix of juicy mango, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables. The tangy dressing ties everything together for a perfect summer meal.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this creamy tomato basil soup. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy texture will warm you up from the inside out.

Chocolate Raspberry Tart: Treat yourself to a decadent chocolate raspberry tart that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the tartness of fresh raspberries. This elegant dessert is perfect for any special occasion.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Pepper Chicken Stir Fry

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a delectable appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the savory filling, making it a delightful start to any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Indulge in the crispy, crunchy goodness of coconut shrimp as a delightful appetizer. The succulent shrimp is coated in a crispy coconut breading, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a truly satisfying start to your meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this warm, gooey dessert. The outer layer is perfectly baked, while the center oozes with a molten chocolate surprise. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.

Tiramisu: Transport yourself to Italy with this classic dessert. Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers are sandwiched between a creamy mascarpone mixture, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Dust the top with cocoa powder for a touch of bitterness that complements the sweetness of the dessert.

Why trust this Pepper Chicken Stir Fry Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a flavorful and satisfying meal, as the chicken is marinated in a blend of light soy sauce, garlic, and toasted sesame oil, enhancing its tenderness and taste. The stir-fry sauce, consisting of oyster sauce, light soy sauce, and vinegar, provides a harmonious balance of savory and tangy flavors. The use of black pepper throughout the recipe adds a delightful kick to every bite. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to create a delicious pepper chicken stir fry that will surely impress your taste buds.

Share your thoughts on the Pepper Chicken Stir Fry Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Thighs will add a richer flavor to the dish, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may require a bit longer to cook through.

Can I substitute the oyster sauce with something else?

If you don't have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with a mixture of soy sauce and a small amount of sugar or honey. This will help replicate the umami flavor that oyster sauce provides.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of black pepper in the marinade and stir-fry sauce. You can also remove the seeds and membranes from the bell peppers to reduce the heat.

Can I prepare the marinade and sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and sauce ahead of time. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you're ready to use them. Just be sure to give them a good stir before using, as the ingredients may settle.

Can I add other vegetables to the stir-fry?

Of course! Feel free to customize the stir-fry with your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. Just be mindful of the cooking times for the vegetables and adjust accordingly.