Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Introduction
Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a tasty and quick dish that you can whip up for dinner. It’s full of flavor and gets your family excited for mealtime. Perfect for a busy evening, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great because it’s not only easy to make, but it also brings together simple ingredients you might already have at home. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a weekend treat. Plus, the combination of chicken, mushrooms, and a peppery sauce creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup water
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Toss them in a bowl with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until they are fully coated.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Take the chicken out and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil. Then, add the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes until they are softened.
- Add the minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and water to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
- Allow the sauce to thicken slightly for a few minutes.
- Add the chicken back into the skillet and mix it with the sauce and veggies.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- If you like, garnish with green onions and serve hot with rice or noodles.
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Serve this dish hot and fresh straight from the skillet! It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also add some extra veggies if you like, making it a colorful and healthy meal.
How to Store Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
- Make sure your chicken is cut into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- You can adjust the amount of black pepper depending on your taste. If you love spice, feel free to add more!
- For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
Variation
You can easily switch this recipe up by adding other veggies like bell peppers, baby corn, or snap peas. Feel free to experiment with different sauces to create your own flavor!
FAQs
1. Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
2. What can I do if I don’t have oyster sauce?
If you’re out of oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce with a little bit of sugar to add sweetness.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat well before serving.