Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

### Instructions

#### 1. **Prepare the Chicken**:
– Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and 1 tablespoon of the black pepper. You can also add a bit of thyme to season the chicken. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

#### 2. **Cook the Chicken**:
– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side (depending on thickness) or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.

#### 3. **Sauté the Aromatics**:
– In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions (if using) and sauté them for about 2-3 minutes, until they become soft and translucent.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

#### 4. **Cook the Mushrooms**:
– Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan, stirring them around to coat in the oil and aromatics. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown.

#### 5. **Add the Chicken Broth and Soy Sauce**:
– Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce (if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let the broth simmer for about 3-4 minutes, reducing slightly.

#### 6. **Combine the Chicken and Season**:
– Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces and return them to the pan with the mushrooms. Stir everything together and add the remaining black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or soy sauce if needed.

#### 7. **Simmer and Serve**:
– Allow everything to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together. Once the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove from heat.
– Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving, if desired.

#### 8. **Serve**:
– Serve this savory Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. For a lighter option, you can also enjoy it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

### Tips for the Perfect Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

1. **Adjust the Spice Level**: If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of black pepper. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

2. **Use Different Mushrooms**: While button mushrooms are classic, you can try using cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms for a different texture and flavor. The earthy richness of these varieties will complement the chicken beautifully.

3. **Add a Creamy Touch**: If you like a creamier sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or coconut milk after adding the broth. This will give the dish a velvety, indulgent texture.

4. **Make it Gluten-Free**: To make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce, or omit the soy sauce altogether. This will keep the dish flavorful while accommodating gluten sensitivities.

5. **Meal Prep Friendly**: This dish can be easily made in advance and stored for a few days in the fridge. It reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

### Why This Dish Is So Special

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms combines simple ingredients to create an incredibly flavorful dish. The bold black pepper gives the chicken a delightful heat, while the mushrooms bring in an earthy depth. The addition of chicken broth helps to create a light, savory sauce that ties everything together beautifully.

This dish is not only satisfying but also flexible. You can play around with the seasonings and ingredients to suit your preferences, and it’s quick enough to make for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a weekend meal or a special occasion. Whether you’re cooking for one or serving a crowd, Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is sure to impress.

### Conclusion

If you’re looking for a savory, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor, **Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms** is the perfect choice. The combination of juicy chicken, rich mushrooms, and the aromatic kick from black pepper creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Serve it over your favorite sides, and you have a delicious meal that’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Try it tonight and experience the magic of this simple yet irresistible dish!