Introduction: A Flavorful Dish in No Time
Craving something savory, hearty, and incredibly satisfying? Let’s whip up a Quick & Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle. With juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a bold black pepper sauce, it’s a recipe that delivers on both taste and simplicity.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is straightforward and full of flavor. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it a healthy option for your lifestyle. Let’s dive into this delicious dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Minimal Ingredients: Simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have.
• Nutrient-Rich: High in protein, with antioxidants from mushrooms and black pepper.
• Versatile: Perfect on its own or served over rice, noodles, or even quinoa.
Ingredients You’ll Need
• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or shiitake)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra depth)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 ½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• ¼ cup water or chicken broth
• Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and slicing your mushrooms. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and faster!
2. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix the chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked (about 5-6 minutes). Remove the chicken and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Mushrooms & Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Toss in the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for another minute until fragrant.
5. Make the Black Pepper Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, water (or chicken broth), and sesame oil to the pan. Stir in the remaining black pepper. If you like a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and add it to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine & Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until the chicken and mushrooms are evenly coated in the pepper sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, jasmine rice, or stir-fried veggies.
Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken
• Use Freshly Ground Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a more intense, aromatic spice compared to pre-ground pepper.
• Balance the Sauce: Taste the sauce as you go! Add a dash of honey or a sprinkle of sugar if you prefer a milder sauce.
• Add Veggies: Want more nutrition? Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and crunch.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days — perfect for meal prep!
Health Benefits of This Dish
• Chicken: A lean source of protein, great for muscle repair and overall health.
• Mushrooms: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immunity.
• Black Pepper: Aids digestion and boosts nutrient absorption.
This dish is a powerhouse of nutrients while satisfying your cravings for something indulgent yet healthy.
Final Thoughts: Try This Quick & Easy Black Pepper Chicken Tonight
Next time you’re in a rush but want something delicious, try this Quick & Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for the whole family. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to takeout — without sacrificing taste.
Ready to cook? Let me know how your dish turns out in the comments below! And if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and pin it for later!
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