This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a bold, peppery sauce with sautéed mushrooms. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (150g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Stir in black pepper, red pepper flakes, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and honey.
- Pour in chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Add the cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes).
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Let simmer for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Pair with a side of stir-fried vegetables for added crunch and nutrition.
Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken
✔ Use fresh cracked black pepper for maximum flavor. ✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken to ensure a crispy texture. ✔ Adjust spice levels by adding more or less black pepper and red pepper flakes. ✔ For extra depth, add a splash of rice vinegar or lemon juice before serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work great and add extra juiciness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or extra mushrooms.
What’s the best way to get a thick, glossy sauce?
Make sure to use a cornstarch slurry and let the sauce simmer until thickened.
Enjoy your Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms! 🍗🍄🔥
