Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a savory, bold, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with earthy mushrooms in a rich, peppery sauce. The black pepper adds a warm, slightly spicy kick, while the mushrooms bring a deep umami taste that complements the chicken beautifully. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or shiitake)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips.
- In a bowl, mix the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
2. Cooking the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken strips and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet.
- Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Making the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and chicken broth.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Combining Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serving
- Garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Health Benefits:
- High in Protein: Chicken provides lean protein for muscle health.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Black pepper contains antioxidants that support digestion.
- Nutrient-Packed: Mushrooms offer vitamins and minerals that boost immunity.
Variations:
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or chili oil for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh.
- Extra Veggies: Include bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added texture.
This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a simple yet satisfying dish that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Would you like pairing suggestions or alternative cooking methods? 😊🍽️🔥