Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

If you’re craving something savory, bold, and packed with flavor, then this Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is exactly what you need. It’s one of those dishes that feels gourmet yet is so simple to make. The chicken is cooked to perfection, paired with earthy, juicy mushrooms, and seasoned with a generous amount of black pepper that brings everything together with just the right kick. Trust me, this dish will satisfy both your taste buds and your need for a quick, easy dinner.

The combination of tender chicken and umami-rich mushrooms in a fragrant, peppery sauce is a match made in heaven. Every bite is a perfect balance of savory, slightly spicy, and deeply flavorful goodness. So grab your skillet, because this meal is about to become your new weeknight favorite!

Why You’ll Love Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen, yet you’ll feel like you’ve made something special.

Flavor Explosion: The black pepper adds the perfect amount of heat without overwhelming the dish. Combined with the savory mushrooms and tender chicken, the flavors meld together in the most delicious way.

Healthy and Filling: This dish is light yet satisfying. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and a serving of veggies from the mushrooms, making it a balanced and nourishing meal.

One-Pan Wonder: The entire dish is made in one skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

Customizable: You can adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less black pepper. Want to add a little extra zing? Toss in a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms:

For the Chicken and Mushrooms

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. They cook quickly and stay juicy.
• Mushrooms: Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms work wonderfully. Their earthy flavor complements the black pepper beautifully.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds that aromatic base that makes the sauce irresistible.
• Butter: A little butter helps sauté the chicken and mushrooms, adding richness and flavor to the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the sauce and keeps everything moist while it simmers.
• Heavy Cream: For a creamy, velvety sauce that balances the peppery heat and ties all the flavors together.
• Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce gives a savory umami boost to the dish.
• Black Pepper: This is the star of the show! Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor and a bit of heat.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors in the chicken and mushrooms.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a touch of color and a fresh finish to the dish.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This dish comes together quickly, so let’s jump right in.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper on both sides. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter is melted, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes, or until the mushrooms release their juices and become tender.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the soy sauce and heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more black pepper and salt if needed. Sprinkle the chicken and mushrooms with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 750mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is great on its own, but here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

Serve with Rice or Mashed Potatoes

The creamy pepper sauce is perfect for spooning over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Both options will soak up the sauce beautifully.

Pair with Steamed Vegetables

Steamed broccoli, green beans, or sautéed spinach make excellent side dishes that add some greenery to the plate and balance out the richness of the chicken.

Serve with a Side Salad

A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely with the savory, creamy chicken. Try an arugula or mixed greens salad for a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Crusty Bread

Some warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the leftover sauce from the skillet. You’ll want to get every last drop!

Additional Tips

Use Freshly Cracked Pepper

For the best flavor, be sure to use freshly cracked black pepper. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference in this dish’s overall taste.

Adjust the Creaminess

If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. Just keep in mind that it may be a little less rich.

Try Adding Other Herbs

Feel free to experiment with adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce for added depth of flavor. Just be sure to remove any stems before serving.

Make It Spicy

If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the black pepper for an extra kick.

Use Chicken Thighs

For even more flavor, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They’re juicier and have a richer taste.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish. They stay juicy and flavorful, especially when cooked in the rich sauce.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the chicken and mushrooms ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Then, cook the sauce and combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: How can I make this dish spicier?
A3: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce for extra heat.

Q4: Can I make this dairy-free?
A4: Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Q5: Can I use other mushrooms?
A5: Yes! Cremini mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, or portobello mushrooms would all work well in this recipe.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.

Q7: What should I serve this with?
A7: Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or a green vegetable like broccoli. A side salad with a light vinaigrette also complements this dish perfectly.

Q8: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A8: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can stir in a little cornstarch mixed with water.

Q9: Can I freeze leftovers?
A9: Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Q10: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A10: Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet along with the mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that will impress your taste buds every time. The peppery sauce, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms come together in a way that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or prepping for a weekend meal, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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