Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a savory and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful sauce and earthy mushrooms. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of seasonings, with freshly ground black pepper providing a bold kick while the mushrooms absorb the savory sauce, creating a comforting meal. The chicken is pan-seared to golden perfection, then smothered in a rich sauce made with chicken broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and just the right amount of black pepper. It’s a quick, easy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners but also elegant enough for a special occasion. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

This recipe is ideal for those looking for a hearty, comforting dish that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It’s simple, uses everyday ingredients, and comes together in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a small dinner, Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is sure to impress everyone at the table. The best part is that the ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward, so you can make this tasty dish with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold, Peppery Flavor

The freshly ground black pepper enhances the chicken’s flavor, creating a satisfying and slightly spicy kick without overwhelming the dish.

this …

2. Tender, Juicy Chicken

By searing the chicken breasts or thighs, this recipe ensures the chicken stays juicy on the inside with a nice golden crust on the outside.

3. Rich, Savory Sauce

The combination of chicken broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce results in a savory, umami-packed sauce that perfectly complements the chicken and mushrooms.

4. Quick and Easy

With just 20 minutes of cook time, this dish comes together quickly, making it an ideal weeknight meal or a dish for when you’re short on time but still want something flavorful.

5. Versatile Serving Options

You can serve the dish with rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables, making it a versatile choice for any occasion or personal preference.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Salt

For the Mushrooms:

• Sliced mushrooms
• Garlic

For the Sauce:

• Chicken broth
• Soy sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Cornstarch (optional)

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or seitan for a vegetarian option. Simply sauté them until golden and use the same sauce.
• Mushroom-Free: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can replace them with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth to reduce the sodium content without sacrificing flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and half of the freshly ground black pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and sauté them for 4-5 minutes until softened and browned. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add chicken broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and the remaining half tablespoon of black pepper to the skillet. Stir well, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce and mushrooms over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors and heat through.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms over rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to keep it juicy and tender.
• Use Freshly Ground Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives the dish a much stronger, more aromatic flavor than pre-ground pepper.
• Add a Splash of Cream: For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking.
• Make the Sauce to Your Taste: Adjust the seasoning and soy sauce to your taste preference. Add more Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.

How to Serve

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve the Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a lighter option, serve with sautéed spinach or a crisp green salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the chicken and sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing for Longer Storage

While it’s not ideal to freeze the mushrooms, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Then, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra chicken broth to the sauce if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe and provide a juicier texture.

2. What kind of mushrooms should I use?

Button mushrooms, cremini, or portobello mushrooms are all great options for this dish.

3. How do I make the sauce thicker?

You can mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it, or simmer it for a longer time to reduce it.

4. Can I make this dish without Worcestershire sauce?

Yes, you can substitute Worcestershire sauce with balsamic vinegar or skip it entirely for a slightly different flavor profile.

5. Can I use a non-stick pan?

Yes, you can use a non-stick pan for easy cleanup, but it’s best to use a skillet that allows you to sear the chicken and get a nice golden crust.

6. Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can cook the chicken and mushrooms ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat them with the sauce just before serving.

7. What can I serve this dish with?

Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.

8. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

9. How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

Add more black pepper or a dash of hot sauce to spice it up. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

10. Can I make this dish in the oven?

While this recipe is best made on the stovetop, you can bake the chicken in the oven first, then prepare the mushroom sauce separately on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With a savory sauce, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms, it’s a comforting option that can be customized to suit various preferences. Whether you enjoy it over rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables, this dish is a versatile and tasty choice for any dinner. Try it out today for a simple yet delicious meal the whole family will love.

Print