Here is a simple and delicious One Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe that can be made in just 30 minutes. This recipe is a classic and has been a crowd favorite for years. The key to making this dish is to use fresh and high-quality ingredients, particularly the black peppercorns.
**Serves 4-6 people**
**Ingredients:**
* 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 medium-sized bell peppers (any color), sliced
* 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
* 2 cups chicken broth
* 1/2 cup milk (optional)
* 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
* Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until it starts to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the sliced bell peppers to the pot and cook until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the chopped potatoes to the pot, along with the browned chicken, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper.
7. Stir all the ingredients together, then cover the pot with a lid.
8. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
9. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little milk or heavy cream to thin it out.
10. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
11. Serve the One Pot Black Pepper Chicken hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use fresh black peppercorns: Freshly ground black pepper makes a huge difference in this recipe. Make sure to grind the peppercorns just before using them for the best flavor.
* Adjust the heat level: If you prefer a milder dish, you can use less black pepper. If you like a spicier dish, you can add more black pepper or use hotter peppers like jalapenos or habaneros.
* Add other vegetables: You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as diced carrots, sliced mushrooms, or chopped zucchini.
* Use other types of meat: You can make this recipe with other types of meat, such as beef, pork, or lamb. Simply adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
* Make it a one-pot meal: You can add other ingredients to make this a complete one-pot meal. Some ideas include:
+ Pasta: Add cooked noodles to the pot for a hearty and comforting meal.
+ Rice: Cook rice in the pot along with the chicken and vegetables.
+ Beans: Add canned or cooked beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, to the pot for added protein and fiber.
+ Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes, to the pot for added nutrients and flavor.
**Common mistakes to avoid:**
* Not using fresh black peppercorns: Dried black pepper is not the same as freshly ground black pepper, and it can lack depth and complexity in the dish.
* Overcooking the chicken: Make sure to remove the chicken from the pot when it is cooked through, as overcooking can make it dry and tough.
* Not adjusting the seasoning: Taste the dish as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to taste.
I hope you enjoy this One Pot Black Pepper Chicken Recipe!