If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, you’re going to love this Pepper Chicken Recipe. It’s a perfect combination of juicy, tender chicken pieces enveloped in a crisp cornstarch coating, generously seasoned with freshly cracked pepper and a hint of sweet-savory marinade that brings everything to life. This recipe has long been a favorite for those who adore a little spice and a whole lot of personality on their plates. Whether you’re cooking for friends or craving a comforting solo meal, Pepper Chicken hits that delicious spot every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but totally essential for making this Pepper Chicken Recipe shine. Each one plays a crucial part — from creating that crispy crust to delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Chicken breasts (1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces): The star of the dish, providing juicy and tender bites.
Egg (1): Helps the coating stick to the chicken for that irresistible crispiness.
Cornstarch (¾ cup): Creates a light, crunchy crust that’s golden and perfectly fried.
Vegetable oil (for frying): The ideal frying medium to get that beautiful golden texture without overpowering flavors.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances the overall taste and balances flavors.
Freshly cracked black pepper (½ tsp plus extra for seasoning): Adds the signature spicy kick that defines this recipe.
Green onions (2 tbsp, chopped): Brings a fresh and vibrant touch to garnish and flavor.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the chicken with aromatic depth in the marinade.
Brown sugar (2 tsp): Introduces a subtle sweetness that balances the pepper’s heat.
Water (2 tbsp): Helps dissolve the marinade ingredients for even coating.
Rice wine (1 tbsp): Adds complexity and a hint of tanginess to the marinade.
Baking soda (¼ tsp): Tenderizes the chicken, making each bite wonderfully soft.
Soy sauce (2 tbsp): Provides savory umami flavors that tie the entire dish together.

How to Make Pepper Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing the garlic, salt, brown sugar, water, rice wine, baking soda, and soy sauce in a large bowl. Stir everything thoroughly so that the sugar dissolves and the flavors fully meld together. This marinade is the flavor foundation for the chicken — it’s sweet, salty, and packed with savory goodness to make the meat extra delicious.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the marinade bowl and toss well until each piece gets a nice coating. Let the chicken sit for 30 minutes to soak up all those amazing flavors. This step is crucial because it ensures every piece is juicy and seasoned deeply.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

While the chicken is marinating, beat the egg lightly in one bowl and set aside. In another bowl, put the cornstarch ready for coating. This two-step coating process will give the chicken its trademark crispy outer layer once fried.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Drain the chicken pieces from the marinade, then dip each piece into the egg wash to make it sticky. Next, roll the chicken thoroughly in cornstarch so every nook and cranny is covered. This will make sure each bite gets that perfect crunchy texture you’re after.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can dampen the crispiness. Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Once done, place them on paper towels to drain off excess oil. This is when the kitchen will start smelling absolutely irresistible.

Step 6: Season and Serve

After frying all the chicken, toss them back in the pan with the salt and freshly cracked pepper mixture, adjusting according to your taste. Garnish with the chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Your Pepper Chicken Recipe is now ready to be devoured while it’s hot and crispy.

How to Serve Pepper Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped green onions are the classic garnish for this dish, adding a fragrant crunch that complements the peppery chicken perfectly. You can also sprinkle a few toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped cilantro for some extra texture and a burst of herbal flavor.

Side Dishes

Pepper Chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed rice or fried rice to soak up all the flavorful juices. If you want a lighter option, serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a simple cucumber salad for added freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Pepper Chicken on a platter with lime wedges on the side—squeezing fresh lime juice just before eating brightens flavors amazingly. You might also try wrapping the chicken in lettuce leaves with a drizzle of hoisin sauce for a delicious peppery chicken lettuce wrap that’s both fun and fresh.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pepper Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, still retaining good flavor and texture if reheated properly.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your Pepper Chicken, first let it cool completely. Place the pieces in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to keep them from sticking. Freeze for up to 2 months for best taste.

Reheating

To reheat, avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crispiness. Instead, warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. A quick pan-fry can also work beautifully to refresh the crunch.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a juicier, slightly richer flavor and remain tender after frying. Just cut them into similar bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Is this Pepper Chicken Recipe very spicy?

This recipe uses freshly cracked black pepper for heat, which adds a warm, sharp kick rather than overwhelming spiciness. You can adjust the pepper amount to suit your preferred spice level.

What’s the best oil for frying Pepper Chicken?

Vegetable oil is ideal because it has a high smoke point and neutral taste. You can also use canola or peanut oil as great alternatives for frying.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

You can, though frying gives the characteristic crunch that baking may not fully replicate. If you bake, coat the chicken as directed and bake at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack for about 20-25 minutes or until crispy.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Just swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure the cornstarch is pure and uncontaminated. This simple swap keeps the recipe deliciously safe for gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

This Pepper Chicken Recipe is truly a gem that combines simple ingredients with bold flavors and textures that never fail to impress. Whether you’re treating yourself or someone special, this dish offers a wonderful balance of crispy, juicy, and peppery goodness that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds). Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own — your taste buds will thank you!

Pepper Chicken Recipe