This One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal cleanup. The combination of aromatic black pepper, savory sauce, and tender chicken creates a dish that’s both convenient and deeply satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but flavorful.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this dish lies in the balance of fresh black pepper with savory Asian sauces, creating a bold but not overwhelming flavor profile. The one-pot cooking method allows the ingredients to build layers of flavor while keeping cleanup simple. The sauce reduces to the perfect consistency as the chicken cooks, coating each piece beautifully.

Essential Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Aromatics:

• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 inches fresh ginger, minced
• 2 medium onions, sliced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 3 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces

Required Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Pepper grinder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Marinate chicken:

• Toss with cornstarch and salt
• Let sit for 15 minutes
• Pat dry if needed

1. Mix the sauce:

• Combine all sauce ingredients
• Whisk until sugar dissolves
• Set aside

Cooking Process

1. Heat the pot:

• Add oil over high heat
• Wait until almost smoking
• Ensure even heating

1. Cook chicken:

• Add in batches
• Don’t overcrowd
• Brown on all sides
• Remove and set aside

1. Cook aromatics:

• Add onions and peppers
• Stir-fry until softened
• Add garlic and ginger
• Cook until fragrant

1. Combine and finish:

• Return chicken to pot
• Add sauce mixture
• Simmer until thickened
• Toss to coat evenly

Pro Tips for Success

1. Chicken Preparation:

• Cut pieces uniformly
• Don’t skip marination
• Use thighs for moisture
• Pat dry before cooking

1. Sauce Tips:

• Freshly ground pepper
• Adjust heat level
• Balance sweetness
• Check consistency

1. Cooking Advice:

• Keep heat high
• Don’t overcrowd
• Stir frequently
• Watch sauce reduction

Make-Ahead and Storage

Make-Ahead Options:

• Cut chicken day before
• Mix sauce ahead
• Prep vegetables early
• Store components separately

Storage Guidelines:

• Refrigerate up to 3 days
• Freeze up to 2 months
• Reheat gently
• Add water if needed

Variations and Adaptations

Protein Options:

• Chicken breast
• Shrimp
• Tofu
• Beef strips

Vegetable Add-ins:

• Mushrooms
• Snow peas
• Broccoli
• Baby corn

Heat Levels:

• Mild: Reduce pepper
• Medium: As written
• Spicy: Add chili flakes
• Extra hot: Add fresh chilies

Serving Suggestions

Base Options:

• Steamed rice
• Noodles
• Cauliflower rice
• Quinoa

Side Dishes:

• Stir-fried vegetables
• Asian slaw
• Steamed broccoli
• Cucumber salad

Troubleshooting Tips

Sauce Issues:

• Too thick: Add broth
• Too thin: Simmer longer
• Too salty: Add sugar
• Too peppery: Add cream

Chicken Problems:

• Too dry: Check cooking time
• Not browning: Pat dry first
• Sticking: More oil
• Tough: Cut smaller

Common Mistakes:

• Overcrowding pan
• Low heat
• Old black pepper
• Rushing the process

Special Diet Adaptations

Gluten-Free:

• Use tamari
• Check oyster sauce
• Verify cornstarch
• Use clean tools

Low-Carb:

• Skip cornstarch
• Reduce sugar
• Add vegetables
• Serve with cauliflower rice

This One-Pot Black Pepper Chicken recipe creates a delicious meal with minimal fuss. The bold flavors and simple preparation make it perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining. Whether you’re new to Asian cooking or an experienced cook, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite.