Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe

Introduction

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a savory, flavorful dish that perfectly balances the warmth of freshly cracked black pepper with the richness of tender chicken and earthy mushrooms. This hearty and satisfying recipe is perfect for a family dinner or as a quick weeknight meal. The sauce, made with a combination of soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper, envelops the chicken and mushrooms, creating a dish that’s both bold and comforting.

The simple yet vibrant flavors of Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms are sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of juicy chicken, savory mushrooms, and a zesty black pepper sauce makes this dish both delicious and versatile. This recipe is easy to make, even for beginners, and is a great way to spice up your usual dinner routine. Follow along for step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure a successful and tasty dish every time.

Why You’ll Love Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

• Bold, Spicy Flavor: The star of this dish is the black pepper, which adds an undeniable kick. The sauce is packed with flavor from soy sauce, garlic, and pepper, making it both savory and spicy.
• Tender Chicken: The chicken is cooked to perfection—juicy, tender, and infused with the flavors of the sauce. Whether you use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, the result is always flavorful and satisfying.
• Earthy Mushrooms: Mushrooms add a wonderful depth to the dish, soaking up the savory sauce and complementing the peppery kick. Their meaty texture makes them a great addition to the chicken.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need any fancy ingredients to make this dish. Basic pantry staples like soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper come together to create a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the chicken and mushrooms.
• Quick and Easy: This dish is perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a full, delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the spiciness level, add extra veggies, or serve the dish with rice or noodles to suit your preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4-5g

Ingredients

For the Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or your choice of cooking oil)
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (adjust based on spice preference)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for added umami flavor)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, to balance the spice)
• ½ cup chicken broth or water (for the sauce)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Special Equipment

While making Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms doesn’t require specialized tools, a few pieces of equipment will make the process easier and more efficient:

1. Wok or Large Skillet: A wok or large skillet allows you to stir-fry the chicken and mushrooms evenly. The high sides also help prevent splattering while cooking.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will make it easier to slice the chicken and mushrooms, ensuring even cooking. Properly diced chicken ensures that it cooks quickly and evenly.
3. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is perfect for stirring the chicken and vegetables, ensuring that nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.
4. Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements are key to creating the perfect sauce for this dish. Using measuring spoons and cups ensures you get the right balance of soy sauce, vinegar, and other ingredients.
5. Grater or Microplane: A grater or microplane will help you easily grate fresh ginger, adding a punch of flavor to the sauce.
6. Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Tongs or a slotted spoon will help you remove the chicken from the pan without losing any of the delicious juices.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and slice the mushrooms. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger (if using). Make sure to have your sauces and broth ready to go, as this dish comes together quickly once you start cooking.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the pan in a single layer. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for a few minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Flip the chicken pieces over and cook until the chicken is fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes total. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Sauté the mushrooms for about 5 minutes until they are softened and have released their moisture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Add the Aromatics

Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using) to the pan. Stir and sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

5. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, honey or brown sugar (optional), chicken broth or water, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine. You can adjust the amount of black pepper depending on your desired spice level.

6. Combine the Chicken and Mushrooms

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the mushrooms and garlic. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and mushrooms. Stir everything together, ensuring that the chicken and mushrooms are evenly coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly.

7. Taste and Adjust

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Add a pinch of salt if needed, or more pepper if you prefer a spicier kick. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

8. Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken and mushrooms are fully coated in the sauce and the flavors have melded together, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

• Adjust the Spice Level: You can easily adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of black pepper in the dish. Start with 2 teaspoons, and taste as you go to find your preferred heat level.
• Use Freshly Ground Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper will provide the best flavor and aroma. Pre-ground pepper can be used in a pinch, but freshly ground pepper adds more depth to the dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, be sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure it browns evenly. Crowding the pan can result in steamed chicken, which won’t have the same flavor or texture.
• Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as bell peppers, onions, or snow peas. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also add color and texture.
• Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Flavor: If you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut of meat, try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They will stay tender and moist throughout the cooking process.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and mushrooms in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a pan until warmed through.

Variations of Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

• Black Pepper Chicken with Vegetables: Add more vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or snap peas to the dish to create a more colorful and nutritious meal.
• Spicy Black Pepper Chicken: For those who love extra heat, try adding sliced fresh chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Honey Garlic Black Pepper Chicken: Add a little extra honey or brown sugar to the sauce for a sweeter balance that pairs perfectly with the peppery kick.
• Black Pepper Chicken with Broccoli: Add steamed or stir-fried broccoli to the dish for an additional dose of fiber and nutrients.

Storage and Shelf Life

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later. After cooling to room temperature, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, you can microwave individual servings or reheat the entire dish in a pan over medium heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Pair this flavorful dish with complementary sides to create a well-rounded meal:

• Steamed Rice: A bowl of steamed jasmine or basmati rice will absorb the delicious sauce and balance the dish’s flavors.
• Noodles: Serve the chicken and mushrooms over rice noodles or egg noodles for a more substantial meal.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: A quick stir-fry of vegetables like bok choy, baby corn, or snow peas will add extra crunch and color to the plate.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is a great choice to soak up the extra sauce and make the meal feel even more satisfying.

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Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers bold, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite. With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, peppery sauce makes this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or with a side of vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy!