Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Tender chicken and mushrooms come together in a flavorful dish with a kick of spice in this Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms recipe. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this quick stir-fry is ready in just 30 minutes. The blend of bold black pepper and savory sauces creates a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Bold: The combination of black pepper, garlic, and savory sauces creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the vegetables based on what you have at home or your preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrients from fresh vegetables, it’s a wholesome meal choice.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process seamless, gather all your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will help you whip up this delicious meal quickly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious cooking surface allows for even heat distribution, essential for stir-frying.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise slicing of chicken and vegetables for uniform cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining spices and coating the chicken evenly.

Ingredients

Tender chicken and mushrooms stir-fried in a bold, peppery sauce. A quick and satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes.

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

• 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

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Mix sliced chicken with cornstarch, salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the chicken until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet with remaining oil, stir-fry onion and bell pepper for 2-3 minutes. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook another 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon black pepper in a small bowl.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the sauce to the vegetables in the skillet. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything until well-coated and heated through for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot over rice or noodles. Enjoy your delicious Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

This flavorful Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, here are some serving ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the stir-fry over steamed jasmine rice for a classic combination that soaks up the delicious sauce.

With Noodles

• Toss the chicken and mushrooms with cooked noodles for a heartier dish. Try using udon or rice noodles for added texture.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the mixture into fresh lettuce leaves for a lighter option. This makes for a fun and interactive meal.

As Tacos

• Use small tortillas to create Asian-inspired tacos filled with Black Pepper Chicken and topped with crunchy veggies.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair it with a medley of stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, and carrots for extra nutrition and color on your plate.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

To ensure your Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is absolutely delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in soy sauce and spices for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor.

• Use high heat: Stir-frying over medium-high heat helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken, locking in juices.

• Cut ingredients uniformly: Slice mushrooms, peppers, and onions evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.

• Adjust pepper to taste: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of black pepper or use white pepper instead.

• Fresh ingredients matter: Use fresh garlic and vegetables for maximum flavor and texture in your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Pairing side dishes with your Black Pepper Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the bold flavors of the chicken.
2. Fried Rice: A classic companion that complements the dish perfectly, fried rice can absorb all those wonderful juices.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm stir-fry.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: This nutritious grain offers a hearty base that pairs well with the savory chicken.
5. Sautéed Snow Peas: Quick-cooked snow peas add a sweet crunch that enhances the overall dish.
6. Egg Fried Rice: Adding eggs to fried rice creates a protein-packed side that works wonderfully with Asian flavors.
7. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic make for an easy yet flavorful side that complements the meal nicely.
8. Miso Soup: This light soup serves as a soothing starter that balances out the richness of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the cornstarch step: Not coating the chicken in cornstarch can lead to a less tender texture. Make sure each piece is well-coated for better cooking results.

• Overcrowding the skillet: Placing too much chicken or vegetables in the skillet can cause steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything is perfectly browned.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or old mushrooms and vegetables can compromise the flavor. Always opt for fresh produce to enhance your dish’s taste.

• Ignoring the sauce balance: Too much soy sauce can make the dish overly salty. Measure carefully and adjust to your taste preferences.

• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping green onions as a garnish can diminish visual appeal and flavor. Always finish your dish with fresh herbs for added zest.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing for best results.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms.

What kind of chicken should I use for Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms?

For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best due to their tenderness and quick cooking time. You could also use chicken thighs if preferred.

Can I substitute other vegetables in Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms?

Absolutely! You can add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots based on your preference or seasonal availability.

How do I customize Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms?

You can customize this recipe by adjusting the amount of black pepper and sauces according to your taste. Adding more garlic or a splash of citrus juice can also enhance flavors.

Is Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms spicy?

While it does have a peppery kick from freshly ground black pepper, you can adjust the spice level by reducing the amount used or omitting it altogether if desired.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of oyster sauce for a delicious vegetarian version of Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms.

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a delightful stir-fry that brings bold flavors together in just 30 minutes. Its versatility allows you to easily customize it based on your preferences, making it suitable for any busy weeknight dinner. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to experiment with different veggies or proteins!