Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms 🍄🍗
This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a savory, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a bold black pepper kick. It’s quick to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, and pairs beautifully with rice or noodles. The simple marinade and aromatic stir-fry create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and satisfying dish step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavor : The black pepper adds a spicy, aromatic punch that elevates the dish.
- Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Versatile : Serve it over rice, noodles, or even as a standalone dish.
- Healthy Option : Packed with lean protein and veggies, it’s nutritious and filling.
- Customizable : Adjust the spice level or add extra veggies for variety.
Ingredients
(Serves 3–4)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts , sliced into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste )
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided )
- 1 onion , chopped
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini, button, or shiitake work well )
- 2 cloves garlic , minced (optional, for extra flavor )
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for added umami )
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors )
- Cooked rice or noodles , for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Let the chicken marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes , until softened and slightly translucent.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 4–5 minutes , until they release their moisture and become tender. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken strips and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes , until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked onions and mushrooms to the skillet with the chicken.
- Stir in minced garlic (if using), soy sauce, and sugar (if desired). Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes , stirring to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or soy sauce if needed.
- Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, garnished with extra black pepper or green onions if desired.
Tips for Success
- Slice Chicken Thinly : Thin slices ensure the chicken cooks quickly and absorbs more flavor from the marinade.
- Use Fresh Black Pepper : Freshly ground black pepper has a more robust flavor compared to pre-ground pepper.
- Add Veggies : Include bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn for extra color and nutrition.
- Spice It Up : Add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil for a spicy kick.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet.
Perfect Pairings
This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed Rice : Jasmine or basmati rice complements the dish perfectly.
- Noodles : Serve over egg noodles, udon, or lo mein for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Green Salad : A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Soup : Pair with miso soup or egg drop soup for a comforting meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
(Based on 4 servings)
- Calories : ~250 kcal
- Protein : ~25g
- Carbohydrates : ~10g
- Fat : ~12g
- Fiber : ~2g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a bold black pepper kick. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
The best part? It’s incredibly versatile, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. So grab your chicken, slice those mushrooms, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.