Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, then let me introduce you to my go-to recipe: Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also comes together in just 30 minutes! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and bold peppery sauce create a delightful combination that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This beloved recipe has been a staple in our home for years. It’s perfect for those moments when you want something hearty yet simple to prepare. Plus, it’s versatile enough to make it your own by swapping in your favorite vegetables or proteins!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious flavors and colorful ingredients, it’s a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Feel free to mix and match vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a double batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of black pepper and savory sauces creates an irresistible taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that are easy to gather. No need for any fancy ingredients here—just good food made from the heart.

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Vegetables

• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
• 8 ounces mushrooms (shiitake or button), sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 green onions, chopped

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use tofu or shrimp instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Mix in more veggies: Add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños if you like some heat.
• Serve with different sides: Try serving over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthy twist.

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by mixing the sliced chicken with cornstarch, salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper until evenly coated. This step helps create a nice crust when we stir-fry the chicken, keeping it juicy inside while giving it that golden-brown exterior we all love!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the chicken until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Once it’s cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. This quick cooking process locks in flavor and keeps everything tender.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet with the remaining oil, stir-fry onion and bell pepper for about 2-3 minutes. Then add in those lovely mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is vibrant and fragrant. Sautéing these veggies brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 4: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and another teaspoon of black pepper. This flavorful mixture will coat our stir-fried chicken and veggies beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add your sauce mixture to the vegetables in the skillet. Return the cooked chicken back into the pan as well. Toss everything together until well-coated and heated through—about 1-2 minutes will do! This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish your delightful dish with chopped green onions before serving hot over rice or noodles. It’s time to dig in! Enjoy this comforting meal that’s sure to warm your heart!

And there you have it—your very own Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Creating the perfect Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a breeze when you follow these handy tips!

• Use high-quality chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken breasts will yield a more tender and flavorful dish, ensuring each bite is juicy and satisfying.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch: Coating the chicken in cornstarch not only helps to tenderize it but also creates a lovely crisp on the outside during cooking.
• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Having everything sliced and ready to go makes stir-frying quick and efficient. This helps maintain the freshness of the vegetables and ensures even cooking.
• Adjust the spice level: If you like a little more heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or chili sauce to the sauce mixture for an extra kick.
• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove when it’s at its most vibrant and flavorful. Allowing it to sit too long may cause it to lose its delightful texture.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Presenting your Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms can turn a simple meal into a dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving style!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds enhance both flavor and presentation, giving a nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving brightens up the dish and adds an exciting zing!

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: The light fragrance and fluffy texture of jasmine rice make it an ideal base for soaking up the savory sauce from your chicken.
• Garlic sautéed bok choy: This vibrant green vegetable brings a nice crunch and earthy flavor that balances out the richness of the chicken.
• Stir-fried broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli not only adds color but also provides a nutritional boost, making your meal more wholesome.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a cool contrast to the heat of black pepper, cleansing your palate with each bite.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delicious Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms! It’s quick, easy, and sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms recipe is perfect for meal prep! The flavors meld beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day. Plus, it’s easy to store and reheat, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked chicken and mushrooms to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious recipe? You’re in the right place!

Can I use different vegetables in Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out bell peppers or mushrooms for your favorite veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on what you choose.

How can I make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms healthier?

To make this dish even healthier, consider using less oil when stir-frying or opting for low-sodium soy sauce. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding more mushrooms or including leafy greens like spinach.

Can I prepare Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. It reheats beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms! It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience filled with flavor and warmth. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is a winner that brings comfort and satisfaction. Enjoy every bite and feel free to explore your own variations—happy cooking!