Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms recipe!

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a savory and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with earthy mushrooms in a delicious, slightly spicy sauce. The black pepper brings a warming heat that enhances the other ingredients, making this dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini, white button, or any variety you prefer)

• 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust based on your heat preference)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for depth of flavor)

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for a rich umami taste)

• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)

• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and black pepper on both sides.

2. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up.

3. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

2. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms will release their moisture and shrink down, becoming tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

1. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of black pepper over the mushroom mixture, adjusting to your preferred spice level.

2. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) for depth of flavor. Stir to combine.

3. Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir this slurry into the pan to thicken the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the mushroom mixture. Let the chicken simmer for another 5 minutes to absorb the flavors and heat through.

2. Drizzle with sesame oil for a nice, nutty finish (optional but recommended).

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Once everything is well combined, check the seasoning and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed.

2. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness.

3. Serve the Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside a crisp salad.

Tips:

• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier result, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts. They add more flavor and tenderness to the dish.

• Mushroom Variety: You can use any kind of mushrooms in this recipe, such as shiitake, portobello, or a mix of wild mushrooms for a unique flavor.

• Heat Level: If you like your dish spicier, feel free to increase the amount of black pepper or add some crushed red pepper flakes.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Ensure that tofu is pressed to remove excess moisture for the best texture.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 300-350 (depending on portion size and any optional ingredients)

• Protein: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Fat: 18g

• Fiber: 2g

This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a well-balanced dish with lots of flavor and can easily be customized to suit your preferences. The richness of the mushrooms paired with the peppery sauce makes for a truly delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy!