One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

One-pot black pepper chicken recipe is not only very quick and easy to make, but delicious as well! This dish stands out for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and satisfying textures. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it delivers a delightful meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Enjoy the perfect blend of spices, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken in just 25 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is ideal for those who want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Simple Ingredients: Using easily accessible ingredients means you can whip this up any day of the week without a special trip to the store.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of black pepper and fresh vegetables makes this dish adaptable. Feel free to switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand.
• One-Pot Convenience: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet. Less mess means more time to savor your meal!
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with protein and colorful veggies, this dish is both nutritious and filling.

Tools and Preparation

To create your One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe smoothly, having the right tools on hand will make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for cooking chicken and vegetables evenly while allowing for easy stirring.
• Cutting board: A stable surface ensures safety while chopping ingredients quickly and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting through chicken and vegetables effortless, helping you save time during prep.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for the One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe:

Protein

• 1 pound boneless (skinless chicken breasts, cubed)

Vegetables

• 1 red bell pepper julienned
• 1 yellow bell pepper julienned
• 1 yellow onion sliced

Oils & Seasonings

• 2 tbsp sesame oil (divided)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger (minced)

Sauces & Thickeners

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 1/2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Sweeteners & Spices

• 1 tbsp coconut sugar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp crushed red chili pepper flakes

Garnishes

• 1 tsp sesame seed (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp green onion (for garnish)

How to Make One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by cutting the onion and bell peppers into strips. Then, cube the chicken breasts. Season them with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken cubes to the pan. Cook until they are golden brown, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer them to a plate.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, pour another tablespoon of sesame oil. Add minced ginger and garlic, sautéing until fragrant—about 30 seconds to a minute.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Introduce the julienned bell peppers and sliced onion into the skillet. Cook for about 5-10 minutes until they become soft.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Vegetables

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with vegetables. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Create the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, coconut sugar, honey, black pepper, and crushed red chili flakes. Mix until well combined.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Pour the sauce mixture over chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Cook until it thickens slightly while stirring occasionally.

Step 8: Final Touches

Once thickened to your liking, turn off the heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top as garnishes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken!

How to Serve One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

This one-pot black pepper chicken dish is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance the flavors and make your meal even more enjoyable.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice absorbs the savory sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

With Quinoa

• Serve it atop fluffy quinoa for a nutty flavor and added protein, making it a healthy option.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• For a low-carb alternative, use crisp lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken and vegetables for a fresh bite.

On Top of Noodles

• Pair it with soba or rice noodles for a delightful Asian-inspired meal that’s quick to prepare.

Accompanied by Fresh Salad

• A side salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the dish well, adding freshness.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add fresh cilantro or basil on top right before serving for an extra layer of flavor and color.

How to Perfect One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

To ensure your one-pot black pepper chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to dried varieties.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of crushed red chili flakes based on your heat preference for personalized spice levels.

• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Control the Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook longer; if you like it thinner, add a splash of broth or water while cooking.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your one-pot black pepper chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A simple side that adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and complement the savory chicken well.

3. Stir-Fried Vegetables
   Quickly sautéed seasonal vegetables offer crunch and add more fiber to your meal.

4. Coconut Rice
   Coconut-infused rice adds sweetness and pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the chicken.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the spiciness of the dish for balance.

6. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad brings brightness and crunch, enhancing your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and even the best recipes can go awry if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making the One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.

• Bold cutting technique: Cutting vegetables unevenly can affect cooking time. Make sure to julienne bell peppers and slice onions uniformly for even cooking.

• Bold timing: Overcooking or undercooking the chicken can ruin the dish. Cook the chicken until golden brown, but don’t overdo it to keep it juicy.

• Bold sauce preparation: Not mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly can result in lumps. Be sure to mix soy sauce, vinegar, cornstarch, and other ingredients until smooth.

• Bold serving method: Skipping garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions can make your dish less appealing. Always add them for a fresh touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

• Use a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe that might help you in your cooking journey.

Can I use different types of meat in this One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

How spicy is the One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe?

The spiciness mainly comes from black pepper and red chili flakes. You can adjust these according to your taste.

What sides pair well with this One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe?

Serve it with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Stir-fried vegetables also make a great side!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and ensure all sauces are plant-based.

Final Thoughts

The One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is quick, delicious, and versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without much fuss. Give it a try!