Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe

### **How to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms:**

**Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients**
Start by slicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer a juicier texture, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. Clean and slice the mushrooms, and chop the garlic and onion. Set these aside so you can easily add them to the pan as you cook.

**Step 2: Cook the Chicken**
In a large skillet or wok, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure the chicken is golden and crispy on the edges, which adds extra flavor to the dish. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

**Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables**
In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in the sliced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and become slightly caramelized. Add the garlic and mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.

**Step 4: Prepare the Sauce**
Now it’s time to create the flavorful sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch (to thicken). Pour this mixture over the vegetables in the skillet, stirring everything together. Bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to thicken and coat the mushrooms and onions.

**Step 5: Add the Chicken and Black Pepper**
Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken with the sauce, then generously sprinkle the black pepper over the dish. Adjust the amount based on your preference for heat. The black pepper is the star of this dish, so don’t be shy!

**Step 6: Serve**
Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to absorb all the flavors. Once everything is well-combined, transfer the Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a touch of color and freshness.

### **Serving Suggestions:**
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

– **Steamed Rice** – The sauce will soak into the rice, making every bite more flavorful.
– **Noodles** – Soft egg noodles or rice noodles work great with the peppery sauce.
– **Roasted Vegetables** – A side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots will complement the dish.
– **Mashed Potatoes** – The creamy texture of mashed potatoes is a wonderful contrast to the bold pepper sauce.

### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe:**

1. **Bold Flavors** – The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper creates a deep, savory, and slightly spicy sauce that perfectly coats the chicken and mushrooms.

2. **Quick and Easy** – This is a simple dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

3. **Versatile** – You can customize the recipe by adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even toss in a handful of spinach for some greens.

4. **Tender Chicken** – The chicken turns out juicy and tender thanks to the sautéing and simmering process, while the mushrooms add a delicious earthy flavor that balances the peppery kick.

### **Tips for Success:**

– **Adjust the Pepper Level** – If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more black pepper. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra heat boost.
– **Make it Creamy** – If you love creamy sauces, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the sauce for a richer texture.
– **Use Fresh Ingredients** – Fresh garlic, onions, and mushrooms will enhance the overall flavor and give you the best results.

### **Conclusion:**

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a deliciously easy meal that packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort. It’s a perfect recipe for busy cooks who want a savory, satisfying dish on the table fast. The tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and bold black pepper sauce come together beautifully, making this a recipe you’ll want to repeat often. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy this tasty meal that’s sure to become a household favorite!