Looking for a delicious yet simple recipe that combines savory chicken with the earthy flavor of mushrooms? Look no further! This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms recipe is an easy-to-make dish that’s packed with rich flavors and can be served in just 30 minutes. The combination of tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and a perfectly seasoned black pepper sauce makes this dish a standout. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with your cooking skills, this recipe has got you covered.
Let’s dive into the details of how to make this incredibly flavorful dish!
Ingredients
To make this flavorful Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
•2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
•2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
•Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
•2 tablespoons unsalted butter
•1 medium onion, finely chopped
•2 cloves garlic, minced
•1 cup of sliced mushrooms (button mushrooms or cremini work best)
•1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
•2 tablespoons soy sauce (for umami flavor)
•1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, adds depth of flavor)
•1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust according to preference)
•1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
•Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Steps
Follow these easy steps to create this savory and flavorful Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
1.Season the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2.Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions
1.Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and sauté them for about 2 minutes until softened.
2.Add the Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
1.Create the Sauce Base: Add the chicken broth and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir well, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
2.Add the Black Pepper: Stir in the freshly ground black pepper, adjusting the amount based on how peppery you like your sauce. For extra heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
3.Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
1.Return Chicken to Pan: Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to reheat and absorb the flavors.
2.Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked through and coated with the sauce, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside a fresh green salad. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light vegetable side, such as steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach.
Variations
This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms recipe can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
1.Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the dish for extra color and nutrition.
2.Use Chicken Thighs: For a juicier and richer flavor, swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
3.Add a Creamy Twist: For a creamy version, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut cream to the sauce at the end of cooking. This will give the dish a velvety texture and a slightly different flavor profile.
4.Spicy Variation: If you like heat, add chopped fresh chilies or red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also use white pepper for a more subtle heat.
5.Use Mushrooms of Your Choice: While button mushrooms are classic, feel free to use other varieties such as shiitake, oyster, or portobello for different textures and flavors.
Tips
Here are a few tips to ensure that your Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms comes out perfectly every time:
1.Sear the Chicken Properly: Don’t skip the step of searing the chicken. This helps lock in the juices, giving you a tender and flavorful result.
2.Adjust the Pepper: Black pepper is the star of this dish, so be sure to adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance. For a milder version, you can reduce the amount of pepper or use a mix of black and white pepper.
3.Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When sautéing the mushrooms, avoid overcrowding the pan. This will help the mushrooms brown evenly and release their delicious flavors.
4.Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
5.Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, cornstarch works great, but you can also simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
Conclusion
Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a quick, flavorful dish that combines the hearty flavors of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a savory black pepper sauce. The combination of these ingredients makes for a meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner. The dish is easy to prepare, customizable to your tastes, and can be served with a variety of sides for a well-rounded meal.
Give this recipe a try the next time you’re craving something flavorful and satisfying. Your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of mushroom?
Yes, you can use any type of mushroom you prefer, such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello. Each type will add its own unique flavor and texture.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the chicken is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and mushrooms ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat before serving, and then add the cooked chicken to finish the dish.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make the recipe gluten-free by ensuring that your soy sauce is gluten-free or using tamari as a substitute.
4. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, this recipe works great with other proteins like turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
5. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce moist.
