Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Boneless chicken thighs or breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey can work too. For a vegetarian version, try firm tofu, cut into cubes, or even tempeh.

Mushrooms: I love using button or cremini mushrooms for their flavor. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can swap them with bell peppers or zucchini for a different taste.

Black Pepper: Coarsely ground black pepper gives this dish its signature kick. If you want a milder version, use white pepper instead. For an extra spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.

Oyster Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, look for a mushroom-based sauce or simply skip it. A touch more soy sauce can also be a good alternative.

How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Tender and Juicy?

Getting perfectly cooked chicken can make all the difference. Here’s how to do it right:

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more moisture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to allow browning.
• Cook over medium-high heat to seal in juices, and stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Always check that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Why is Sautéing the Mushrooms First Important?

Sautéing mushrooms before the chicken helps to enhance their flavor. Here’s why:

• Mushrooms release moisture as they cook, so doing them first ensures they brown nicely.
• This step prevents the chicken from becoming soggy by keeping the mushroom juices separate before combining them later.

So, give the mushrooms their moment in the spotlight!”

Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken Dish:

• 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 200g (7 oz) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp black pepper, coarsely ground
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• Salt to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delightful dish that’s perfect for a busy evening!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Mushrooms:

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them until they start to release their moisture and begin to brown. This should take about 5 minutes. Once they’re done, remove them from the pan and set them aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté them until you can smell their delicious fragrance, and the onions become translucent, which should take around 2 minutes.

3. Brown the Chicken:

Next, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt and coarsely ground black pepper. Cook these until the chicken is nicely browned and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally for about 6-8 minutes.

4. Combine Ingredients:

Once the chicken is cooked, return the sautéed mushrooms to the pan. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), sugar, and chicken broth. Mix everything well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

5. Final Touches:

Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if you like—add more black pepper or salt as needed. Once you’re happy with the flavor, take it off the heat.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Garnish your delicious black pepper chicken with the chopped green onions. Serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms! It’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

FAQ for Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?

Absolutely! While boneless chicken thighs or breasts are ideal, you can also use chicken tenders or even diced turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; thinner pieces will cook faster!

What Can I Substitute for Mushrooms?

If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, feel free to swap them out for bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on what you choose.

Is This Recipe Spicy?

This recipe is well-seasoned with black pepper but not overly spicy. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the dish.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist.

Feel free to experiment and enjoy this delicious dish!