Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe

Introduction

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a bold and flavorful dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken and earthy mushrooms, all coated in a savory black pepper sauce. This one-pan meal is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious and satisfying. The black pepper sauce adds a delightful kick of heat, while the mushrooms soak up all the savory goodness, balancing the richness of the chicken.

This recipe is all about simple ingredients coming together in harmony to create a meal that’s full of depth and flavor. With a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and seasonings, Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides or enjoyed on its own. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of making this mouthwatering dish, share helpful tips, and suggest some fun variations to try.

Why You’ll Love Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

• Packed with Flavor: The black pepper sauce is the star of the dish, delivering a punch of flavor that perfectly complements the tender chicken and mushrooms. The richness of the sauce, combined with the earthy mushrooms, makes each bite incredibly satisfying.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
• One-Pan Meal: With minimal cleanup required, this is a great option for those who prefer cooking with fewer dishes. Everything cooks in one pan, making both preparation and cleanup a breeze.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less black pepper, or experiment with other herbs and spices. You can also swap out the mushrooms for other vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to suit your preferences.
• Balanced and Nutritious: With lean chicken and mushrooms, this dish provides a good mix of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a well-rounded meal for anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 5-6g

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Mushrooms:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cups fresh mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium, if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon honey (for a slight sweetness)
• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken. If using chicken breasts, slice them into thin strips or bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat. Season the chicken with salt and half of the ground black pepper. The black pepper will be the primary seasoning for the sauce, so be generous but adjust to your heat preference.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil (or olive oil) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until golden brown on one side. Flip the chicken pieces and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Leave any remaining oil and juices in the skillet to add flavor to the sauce.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Add the garlic and ginger (if using) to the skillet and cook for another minute, allowing the aromatics to become fragrant.

Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir occasionally, and cook for 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are tender. The mushrooms will absorb the savory flavors from the onions, garlic, and ginger, making them even more delicious.

4. Prepare the Sauce

While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining black pepper. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in the chicken broth and add it to the mixture. The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce and give it a smooth, velvety texture.

5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything to combine, ensuring the chicken and mushrooms are evenly coated with the sauce.

Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you used cornstarch in the sauce, it will begin to thicken as it cooks. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more black pepper for heat or more honey for sweetness.

6. Serve and Garnish

Once the sauce has thickened and everything is evenly coated, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or green onions if desired. The dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or noodles, but it can also be served on its own for a lighter meal.

Tips for Perfect Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

• Adjust the Pepper: The amount of black pepper can be adjusted based on your heat preference. If you like it spicy, feel free to add more black pepper. Start with the recommended amount and taste as you go to ensure it suits your liking.
• Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms will release their moisture as they cook, which enhances the flavor and texture of the dish. Avoid using canned mushrooms, as they won’t have the same texture or flavor.
• For Extra Crispness: If you like your chicken extra crispy, you can bread and pan-fry the chicken before adding it back to the skillet with the sauce. This will add a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables to the skillet for extra color and nutrition. Bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli would all be great additions to this dish.
• Make It Spicy: For an extra kick, add some chili flakes or sliced fresh chilies to the sauce. This will give the dish more depth and spiciness, balancing the heat of the black pepper with a little more heat from the chilies.
• Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer chicken thighs, they are an excellent choice for this dish. The darker meat is juicier and more flavorful, and it will hold up better to the sauce without drying out.

Variations of Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

• Black Pepper Chicken with Broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the skillet for a healthy and vibrant addition to the dish. The broccoli will absorb the savory sauce and provide a nice crunch.
• Black Pepper Chicken with Bell Peppers: For a burst of color and sweetness, add bell peppers to the skillet along with the mushrooms. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers work particularly well with this dish.
• Black Pepper Chicken with Cashews: For added texture and flavor, toss in a handful of toasted cashews right before serving. They will provide a delightful crunch and complement the black pepper sauce perfectly.
• Creamy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms: If you prefer a creamy sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking. This will add richness and smoothness to the sauce, creating a more decadent dish.
• Black Pepper Chicken with Green Beans: Green beans are another excellent vegetable to add to this dish. Simply sauté them with the mushrooms for a fresh and crunchy element to the meal.

Storage and Shelf Life

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is perfect for leftovers and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

• Storing: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the chicken and mushrooms together in the same container to retain moisture and flavor.
• Reheating: Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it seems a little dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to rehydrate the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

This dish is flavorful enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal:

• Rice: Serve the Black Pepper Chicken with a side of steamed white or brown rice. The rice

will absorb the delicious sauce, adding a satisfying element to the dish.

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the savory sauce of the chicken and mushrooms. It’s a comforting side that will enhance the overall meal.
• Quinoa: Quinoa is a great option for a lighter, protein-packed side. Its nutty flavor pairs well with the savory chicken and mushrooms.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: For an extra boost of vegetables, stir-fry some green beans, bell peppers, or snap peas to serve alongside this dish.

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Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any night of the week. With its savory black pepper sauce, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s quick, customizable, and pairs well with a variety of sides, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this one-pan meal will impress everyone with its depth of flavor and simplicity. Enjoy the rich, comforting goodness of Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones!