Garlic Butter Black Pepper Chicken

Garlic Butter Black Pepper Chicken is a savory, aromatic dish featuring tender chicken thighs pan-seared to perfection and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with the bold kick of freshly ground black pepper. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy days.

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and black pepper creates a bold, irresistible taste.

• Versatile: It pairs well with a wide variety of sides like rice, noodles, or vegetables.

• Minimal Ingredients: Simple pantry staples come together to create an impressive meal.

• Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit your spice preference or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skin-on chicken thighs

• Salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Butter

• Oyster sauce

• Soy sauce

• Minced garlic

• Honey

• Ketchup

Directions

1. Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side, until golden and crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix oyster sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, honey, ketchup, and a generous amount of black pepper.

4. Combine: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Pour in the sauce mixture and stir until slightly thickened.

5. Return Chicken to Pan: Place the chicken back into the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Let it cook for 3–5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and coated in the sauce.

6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot with your choice of side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes

• Total Time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use chicken breasts, tofu, or shrimp instead of thighs.

• Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, onions, or snap peas during the final cooking stage.

• Make it Spicier: Add chili flakes or a splash of sriracha for extra heat.

• Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt.

• Sweetness Adjustments: Substitute honey with brown sugar, maple syrup, or agave nectar.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

• Freezing: The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal for their flavor and tenderness, but breasts can also be used.

Can I make this dish without oyster sauce?

Yes, you can substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild heat from the black pepper. You can increase or reduce the amount to suit your taste.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Yes, grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor. After grilling, toss it in the sauce before serving.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when pierced.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Reheat gently before serving.

What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed rice, garlic noodles, mashed potatoes, or sautéed vegetables pair nicely.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If needed, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) to the sauce and simmer.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, use a dairy-free butter substitute or skip the butter entirely and increase the garlic and sauce quantities.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Simply scale up the ingredients proportionally, and use a larger skillet if needed.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Black Pepper Chicken is a delicious, quick, and crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and rich, savory flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion—from a busy weeknight to a casual dinner party. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect balance of garlicky goodness and peppery heat.