If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that’s packed with bold flavors, this Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is the perfect dish. Tender chicken is coated in a savory, peppery sauce and paired with earthy mushrooms and sweet onions for a satisfying, one-pan meal. It’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight and tastes like a restaurant-quality stir-fry!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Packed with Flavor: Bold black pepper, savory chicken, and the umami of mushrooms create a rich and irresistible combination.
- Healthy and Balanced: Lean protein and veggies make it a wholesome choice.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
What Does Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Taste Like?
This dish is savory, slightly smoky, and peppery with a touch of natural sweetness from the onions and mushrooms. The chicken is tender, and the mushrooms add a hearty, meaty texture that complements the bold black pepper sauce beautifully.
Ingredients
To serve 4, you’ll need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
Optional Add-Ons:
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for a deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- In a bowl, toss the chicken slices with the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet.
- Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are tender.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
- Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Add additional black pepper to taste, and soy sauce or garlic if desired. Stir well to combine and cook for 2-3 more minutes to heat through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or scallions if desired.
Tips for Perfect Black Pepper Chicken
- Slice Chicken Evenly: Thin, uniform slices ensure the chicken cooks quickly and evenly.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to get a nice golden crust.
- Use Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: For the best flavor, use coarsely ground black pepper.
- Add a Sauce: For a saucier dish, stir in 1/4 cup chicken broth or water mixed with a teaspoon of cornstarch during the final cooking step.
Variations
- Vegetable Add-Ons: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients, especially soy sauce, are gluten-free.
- Herbaceous Twist: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
What to Serve with Black Pepper Chicken
- Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the flavors.
- Noodles: Pair with egg noodles, lo mein, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the bold flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Use bread to scoop up the savory sauce for a comforting meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
- Freeze: This dish freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and add extra juiciness.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and skip the cornstarch step.
Q: Can I use canned mushrooms?
Fresh mushrooms are ideal for texture, but canned mushrooms can work in a pinch. Be sure to drain them thoroughly.
Why You’ll Make This Again
This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. It’s quick to make, endlessly adaptable, and so satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a go-to recipe in your rotation.
If you give this recipe a try, don’t forget to leave a comment or share your photos on Pinterest. I’d love to see your take on this dish!
Nutritional Info (Per Serving):
Calories: 220 | Protein: 25g | Carbs: 8g | Fat: 10g
Looking for more quick and tasty chicken recipes? Check out my Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry or Creamy Garlic Chicken and Spinach for even more flavor-packed ideas! 🥘✨