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Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Tender chicken and mushrooms stir-fried in a bold, peppery sauce make this Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms a standout dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and full of flavor. This recipe showcases the delightful balance of spices and textures, making it a favorite for those seeking a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish fits perfectly into busy schedules.
  • Flavorful Delight: The combination of black pepper, soy sauce, and garlic creates a rich and delicious sauce that elevates the chicken and mushrooms.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Easily adaptable based on what you have on handβ€”substitute vegetables or proteins as desired.
  • Health-Conscious Option: Using lean chicken breast and fresh vegetables makes this dish a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is simple when you have the right tools. Gather these essential kitchen items to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking of the chicken and vegetables while providing enough space for stir-frying.
  • Mixing bowl: Helps in combining the ingredients without making a mess, ensuring everything is well-coated before cooking.

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
  • Β½ 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 & Garnish

  • 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Β½ teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Mix sliced chicken with cornstarch, salt, and Β½ 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 chicken until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: SautΓ© the Vegetables

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

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 prepared sauce to the vegetables. 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 and serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Serving Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides or garnishes to enhance its flavors.

Over Rice

  • Serve the chicken over steamed rice for a hearty meal. The rice will soak up the delicious peppery sauce.

With Noodles

  • Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked noodles for a satisfying stir-fry dish. Choose egg noodles or rice noodles for added texture.

In Lettuce Wraps

  • Use crisp lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with chicken and vegetables. This adds a crunchy element and is great for a lighter option.

With Green Onions

  • Garnish generously with chopped green onions. They add freshness and a pop of color to the dish.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Perfecting your Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms involves a few simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

  • Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh chicken, vegetables, and mushrooms will greatly improve the taste of your dish.
  • Control Heat: Stir-frying on medium-high heat ensures your chicken browns nicely without becoming dry.
  • Let it Marinate: Allowing the chicken to marinate in cornstarch, salt, and black pepper for about 15 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.
  • Add Texture: Incorporate a mix of vegetables like snap peas or carrots for added crunch and nutrition.
  • Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings based on your preference during cooking for a more personalized flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Pairing your Black Pepper Chicken with suitable side dishes will round out your meal perfectly. Here are some great options:

  1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a vibrant color and complements the dish’s flavors.
  2. Fried Rice: A classic choice that absorbs the sauce well; consider adding peas and carrots for extra nutrition.
  3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that adds crunch; dress it lightly with vinegar and sesame oil.
  4. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots stir-fried quickly brings additional color and nutrients.
  5. Garlic Bread: For those who enjoy bread, garlic bread can be an unexpected but delightful side.
  6. Quinoa Salad: A healthy alternative packed with protein; mix in cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs for freshness.
  7. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides depth to your meal while being light on calories.
  8. Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls make an excellent appetizer or side dish, complementing the Asian theme beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference in your cooking experience and the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Keep an eye on it and only cook until it’s just browned and cooked through.
  • Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to slice and measure ingredients beforehand can lead to uneven cooking. Prepare everything in advance for a smooth stir-fry process.
  • Ignoring Heat Levels: Using low heat can cause the ingredients to steam instead of stir-fry. Always use medium-high heat for that perfect sear.
  • Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in less flavor. Even a brief marination with cornstarch, salt, and pepper enhances taste and texture.
  • Using Old Spices: Stale spices can dull flavors. Always check your spices before cooking, especially black pepper, which should be freshly ground for maximum impact.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
  • Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

  • Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
  • To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a container.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until heated thoroughly.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth for moisture, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms:

What is Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms?

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a flavorful stir-fry featuring tender chicken and mushrooms coated in a bold peppery sauce.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots according to your preference.

How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms?

The spice level depends on how much black pepper you use. You can adjust it according to your taste by reducing or increasing the amount.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be prepared ahead of time for quick meals throughout the week.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Yes! You can use beef or turkey as alternatives while maintaining similar cooking methods for delicious results.

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms offers bold flavors combined with tender textures, making it an appealing choice for any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on seasonal vegetables or preferred proteins, making this recipe not only quick but also adaptable. Give it a try tonight!

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Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms


  • Author: Adeline
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a vibrant and flavorful stir-fry that brings the bold taste of black pepper and fresh vegetables to your table in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken breast and earthy mushrooms in a savory sauce enhanced by soy sauce and garlic. With its quick preparation and adaptability, you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, making it a versatile option for any meal. Enjoy this delightful dish served over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying dinner experience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Β½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 8 ounces mushrooms (shiitake or button), sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Β½ teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, coat the sliced chicken with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the chicken until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
  3. Add the remaining oil to the skillet and stir-fry onion and bell pepper for 2-3 minutes. Then add mushrooms and garlic; cook until tender.
  4. Combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and black pepper in a bowl to create the sauce.
  5. Return the chicken to the skillet with vegetables, add the sauce, and toss until everything is well-coated and heated through.
  6. Serve hot garnished with chopped green onions over rice or noodles.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (200g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition. For an extra kick, adjust the amount of black pepper according to your taste preference.

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π‚π‘πžπŸ Adeline

Pro Chef & Blogger

Welcome to my culinary corner, where passion meets the plate! I’m a chef with a love for creating delicious and inspiring dishes. Here, I’ll share my best recipes, tips, and tricks to help you bring a taste of magic into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something to ignite your passion for cooking. Join me on this flavorful journey and let’s make every meal memorable. Happy cooking.

Chef Adeline