Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Looking for a dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and feels a bit fancy? Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms has got you covered. This dish is a perfect balance of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a kick of black pepper that brings everything to life. The savory sauce coats every bite, making it a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and bold. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends over for a casual meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy evening but fancy enough to make your guests think you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen all day. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Here’s why this dish is going to be your new go-to:
Rich Flavor: The black pepper gives the chicken a perfect amount of heat, while the mushrooms add an earthy, meaty depth. The sauce is savory and delicious, with just the right amount of richness.
Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t have much time.
Healthy and Hearty: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the mushrooms, this dish is hearty without feeling heavy.
Versatile: It pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or even a crisp salad for a lighter meal. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting, all-in-one dinner.

Ingredients in Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

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

For the Chicken and Sauce:

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. They cook quickly and stay juicy in the sauce.
• Black pepper: The star of the show! The more freshly cracked, the better.
• Garlic: For that aromatic base that takes everything to the next level.
• Soy sauce: A touch of soy sauce adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: This will help create the savory sauce that coats the chicken and mushrooms.
• Cornstarch: To thicken the sauce and give it that silky finish.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and mushrooms, giving them a nice golden-brown crust.
• Salt: To taste, balancing all the flavors.

For the Mushrooms:

• Mushrooms: Baby Bella or cremini mushrooms are perfect for this dish, but you can use whatever mushrooms you prefer or have on hand.
• Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the other flavors perfectly.

Instructions

Let’s get this delicious dish cooking:

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper. This is where the flavor starts to shine!

Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Sauté the Mushrooms and Onion

In the same skillet, add the onions and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the mushrooms and cook until they begin to release their juices and become tender, another 4-5 minutes.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Add the mixture to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the mushroom sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes to absorb all those rich flavors.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms over your choice of rice, noodles, or vegetables. Garnish with extra black pepper if you like a little more heat. Dig in and enjoy the deliciousness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 300

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

This dish is flexible when it comes to pairings. Here are a few ideas:
Rice: Serve it over steamed white or brown rice to soak up all the flavorful sauce.
Noodles: Pair it with egg noodles or spaghetti for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, green beans, or a simple side salad would complement the rich flavors perfectly.
Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting, all-in-one dinner, serve it with mashed potatoes.

Additional Tips

Chicken Variations: If you prefer thighs or another cut of chicken, go ahead and substitute. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the chicken.
Make It Spicy: If you love spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Leftovers: This dish reheats wonderfully! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of mushroom?
A1: Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of mushroom you like, such as button mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just heat everything together when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A3: Yes, chicken thighs will work wonderfully here! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since thighs tend to take a little longer to cook through.

Q4: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A4: The chicken is cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure there’s no pink inside.

Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
A5: Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to a month. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Q6: Can I make this dish without soy sauce?
A6: Yes, you can substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.

Q7: Can I add other vegetables?
A7: Definitely! Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or even broccoli for extra color and nutrition.

Q8: Can I use a non-stick pan?
A8: Yes, a non-stick pan is a great option, but just make sure to adjust the heat to prevent sticking or burning.

Q9: How do I make this dish spicier?
A9: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.

Q10: What’s the best way to serve this dish?
A10: Over rice or noodles works perfectly, but if you’re in the mood for something lighter, try serving it over steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is the perfect dinner when you want something full of flavor, but not too complicated to make. With tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a rich black pepper sauce, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this meal is bound to be a winner. Enjoy!

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