This quick and flavorful Garlic Black Pepper Chicken is a bold stir-fry made with tender chicken, lots of garlic, and freshly cracked pepper in a glossy soy-based sauce. A perfect weeknight meal.
1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
2 tbsp soy sauce (divided)
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp brown sugar
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tsp water (optional, for thickening)
½ cup chicken broth or water
2 tbsp neutral oil (like canola or peanut)
Optional: sliced scallions or onions for garnish
Toss chicken with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp cornstarch, and a little oil. Let marinate 10–15 minutes.
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until browned and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Lower heat to medium. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
Add oyster sauce, remaining soy sauce, sugar, broth, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Return chicken to the pan. Simmer until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked.
Stir in cornstarch slurry if needed to thicken. Garnish and serve hot.
Use tofu for a vegetarian version. Add veggies for a full meal. Adjust pepper to taste.