Prepare to be swept off your feet by the delightful aroma and rich flavors of this Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms. This dish is a symphony of tender chicken strips, earthy mushrooms, and the vibrant kick of freshly ground black pepper, all dancing in a harmonious sauce that is simply irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Flavorful Ensemble: The combination of mushrooms and chicken with soy and oyster sauces creates a mouthwatering melody.
- Versatile Serving: Perfectly paired with rice or noodles, it caters to all your carbohydrate cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish truly special.
- Chicken Breasts: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tenderness.
- Cornstarch: Helps to tenderize the chicken and gives a slight crispiness.
- Mushrooms: Use any variety you like for that earthy touch.
- Soy Sauce & Oyster Sauce: These sauces add depth and a hint of sweetness.
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tweak it based on your personal needs and what you have on hand. It’s all about making it yours!
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili oil for some heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu and add colorful bell peppers for vibrant taste and visuals.
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing your chicken breasts into thin strips. In a mixing bowl, coat the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. This not only enhances the flavor but ensures a delightful crust on the chicken when cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook it for about 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add more oil and toss in your onions and mushrooms. Sauté them until they’re softened and develop a lovely golden hue wafting rich aromas through your kitchen.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Stir in your garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and a splash of water. Allow this to simmer gently, concentrating the flavors to perfection. The aroma will entice everyone into the kitchen!
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the chicken to the skillet. Mix everything together so the chicken and vegetables are thoroughly coated in this savory sauce. Finish with a generous dose of freshly ground black pepper.
Pro Tips for Making Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
- Heat Control: Remember to cook your chicken on medium heat to retain its juiciness while achieving a beautiful golden color.
- Mushroom Magic: For the most flavor, opt for a mix of mushroom varieties like cremini and shiitake.
- Customize the Pepper: Adjust the quantity of black pepper according to your personal taste for an extra punch!
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Garnishes
Top this dish with sliced green onions or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds. They not only add color but a slight crunch as well, amplifying the textural experience.
Side Dishes
Pair it with steamy jasmine rice or plump noodles. The neutral base allows the bold flavors of the chicken and mushrooms to truly shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this beautiful creation on a large platter, draping the chicken over a bed of greens for a pop of color that’s sure to impress at dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Seal leftovers in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll remain fresh and delicious for up to three days.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked dish in individual portions. Defrost thoroughly in the fridge before reheating to maintain the chicken’s texture.
Reheating
Warm up your Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to bring back the sauce’s vibrancy.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and offer a richer, juicier flavor that’s equally delightful.
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What other vegetables can I add?
Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to bring in extra nutrition and color.
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How can I adjust the spice level?
Increase or decrease the amount of black pepper depending on your heat preference. Adding chili flakes is another way to turn up the heat.
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Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?
Yes, you can use hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a dash of sugar for a similar, though slightly different, taste profile.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in search of a deliciously satisfying meal that comes together quickly yet delivers a punch of flavor, look no further than Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms. This culinary gem is perfect for satisfying your palate, whether it’s a weekday or a special occasion. Give it a try, and let this new comfort food become a staple in your kitchen!
Print
Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Stir-Fry
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a savory and flavorful stir-fry dish featuring tender sliced chicken breasts cooked to perfection with earthy mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and a savory sauce enriched with soy, oyster, and sesame oils, finished with fresh black pepper and garnished with green onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish combines bold flavors with a comforting texture, and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup water
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Cooking Oil and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Green onions optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. In a bowl, toss the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat the remaining oil. Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms, sautéing for about 5 minutes, or until softened and golden.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and water. Mix well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer until it slightly thickens, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the chicken and vegetables in the flavorful sauce.
- Season: Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions, if desired, and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Adjust the amount of black pepper for more or less heat.
- For added flavor, include a dash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of sugar in the sauce.
- This dish is best served immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
