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Garlic Black Pepper Chicken – A Bold, Savory Stir-Fry Favorite

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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.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

  • 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.

Notes

Use tofu for a vegetarian version. Add veggies for a full meal. Adjust pepper to taste.