Black Pepper Chicken (Air Fryer Recipe)

Introduction

Black Pepper Chicken is a Chinese takeout classic with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a bold, slightly spicy black pepper sauce. Traditionally stir-fried, this version uses the air fryer to cook the chicken and vegetables to perfection, making the dish easier, healthier, and just as flavorful.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tsp cornstarch

1 tsp sesame oil (or regular oil)

½ tsp black pepper

Pinch of salt

For the Vegetables:

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

½ onion, sliced

1 tbsp oil

Salt & pepper to taste

For the Black Pepper Sauce:

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin for vegetarian option)

1 tbsp water

½ tsp sugar

1–1½ tsp coarsely ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water to make a slurry)

 Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.

Let sit for 10–15 minutes if possible for more flavor.

Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Place marinated chicken in a single layer in the basket.

Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

Air Fry the Vegetables

Toss chopped bell peppers and onion with 1 tbsp oil, salt, and a pinch of pepper.

Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through, until just tender but still crisp.

Make the Sauce (Stovetop or Optional Air Fryer Step)

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, sugar, and ground black pepper.

Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened (1–2 minutes).

OR: Mix the sauce and pour it over the cooked chicken and veggies in a heatproof dish, and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.

Assemble

Combine cooked chicken and vegetables in a bowl or pan.

Toss with black pepper sauce until everything is coated.

Garnish & Serve

Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Top with chopped scallions or sesame seeds if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version (air fry until golden).

Add a dash of chili flakes for extra heat.

Double the sauce if you prefer it extra saucy!