Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and hearty textures, this Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe will become your new go-to favorite. Juicy chicken pieces perfectly seasoned with freshly ground black pepper mingle with tender, earthy mushrooms in a savory sauce that’s both comforting and exciting. Simple to whip up yet packed with layered tastes, it’s a wonderful way to bring warmth and zest to your dinner table any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe plays a crucial role in building up the dish’s delightful character. From the punchy black pepper to the meaty mushrooms, everything is straightforward but essential to getting that signature flavor and texture.

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for a high-heat sear to lock in chicken juices.
• 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless: The lean protein base of the dish, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a vibrant kick and signature spice to the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle, aromatic depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a sweet-savory background note.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Earthy and tender, they soak up all the good flavors.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Helps create a silky sauce to bring everything together.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a touch of umami and saltiness for richness.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it that perfect velvety texture.
• 1 tablespoon water: Combined with cornstarch to make a smooth slurry for the sauce.

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe

Step 1: Heat Your Pan

Start by warming up a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat—this sets the stage for that delicious sear on your chicken pieces which locks in moisture and flavor.

Step 2: Sizzle the Oil

Add the vegetable oil to the hot pan and let it shimmer. This is your cue to get ready for the chicken because a properly heated oil ensures browning instead of sticking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Toss in the bite-sized chicken breast pieces. Stir occasionally and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they’re beautifully browned on the outside and fully cooked inside. This gives the chicken a lovely texture and flavor foundation.

Step 4: Set Chicken Aside

Once cooked, move the chicken to a plate to keep warm. This allows you to focus on softening veggies without overcooking your chicken.

Step 5: Sauté Green Onions

In the same skillet, add a cup of chopped green onions. Their sweet and slightly pungent flavor softens quickly and complements the earthiness of mushrooms wonderfully.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms

Next, stir in the sliced mushrooms with the green onions. Cook together for 4 to 5 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and gain a lovely golden brown color. This step enriches the dish with a robust and meaty flavor.

Step 7: Bring It All Together

Return your cooked chicken to the skillet with the softened mushrooms and green onions. Sprinkle in the black pepper, and stir everything well so every bite bursts with that signature peppery punch.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce

Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then pour it into the skillet along with chicken broth and soy sauce. Stir continuously as the sauce thickens into a glossy, savory coating for the chicken and mushrooms.

Step 9: Final Touches

Let everything simmer for 2 to 3 more minutes. Taste and adjust with extra black pepper or salt if you want that additional boldness. This finishing step lets all the flavors marry perfectly.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or a few whole black peppercorns on top to amp up the visual appeal and offer a fresh burst when biting in.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or buttery noodles, which help soak up that luscious sauce and balance the robust black pepper flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe inside crisp lettuce cups or alongside roasted veggies to add texture contrast and lighten the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even further, making next-day leftovers a treat in themselves.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until just warmed through to keep the chicken tender and the mushrooms juicy—avoid overcooking during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms in this recipe?

Absolutely! Button mushrooms work well, but shiitake or cremini also bring exciting earthy flavors and textures that pair wonderfully with black pepper chicken.

Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

Yes! Feel free to add a pinch of crushed red chili flakes or chopped fresh chili along with the black pepper to elevate the heat to your liking.

Can I substitute chicken breast with thighs?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy, making a great alternative in this recipe.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?

If you prefer a gluten-free or low-sodium option, tamari or coconut aminos are fantastic substitutes that maintain the umami flavor.

How do I keep the chicken tender and not dry?

Cooking on medium-high heat just until no longer pink and then finishing with the sauce helps seal in moisture, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Final Thoughts

This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser with its bold flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a dish that brings warmth to the plate and smiles around the table. Don’t wait to try it—you might just find a new favorite to add to your weekly rotation!

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