Name: Black Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup sliced mushrooms (preferably cremini or white mushrooms); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon fresh ground black pepper (adjust to taste); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon butter; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a deliciously easy way to enjoy the warm, peppery flavors of black pepper chicken with the added depth of sautéed mushrooms. The chicken stays juicy and tender, while the mushrooms absorb all the flavorful juices, making every bite a mouthwatering experience. The combination of savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, and the heat from black pepper creates a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it’s simple to make with minimal ingredients, yet impressive enough for any occasion.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup sliced mushrooms (preferably cremini or white mushrooms)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon fresh ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and browned.
Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.
Pour in the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the mushroom sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Stir in the butter and adjust the seasoning with more black pepper and salt to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add bell peppers, spinach, or green beans to the dish for extra flavor and color.
Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce along with the black pepper.
Creamy Version: Add heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking to make the sauce creamy and indulgent.
Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with pork or beef, or use boneless skinless thighs for more flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They will add more flavor and stay juicier.

2. Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh ones?

Fresh mushrooms work best for this recipe, but you can use dried mushrooms. Just make sure to rehydrate them in warm water for 20 minutes before using them.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and mushroom sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it before serving.

4. Can I use a different type of pepper?

Yes, if you want a milder flavor, you can use white pepper. For more heat, try using crushed red pepper flakes.

5. What sides go well with Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.

6. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

7. How do I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the pan, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

8. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Fresh chicken is ideal, but you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

9. Is there a way to make the dish more flavorful without adding more black pepper?

You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar.

10. Can I use pre-sliced mushrooms?

Yes, pre-sliced mushrooms are fine to use, but you may want to adjust the cooking time slightly as they tend to cook faster.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers bold, peppery goodness with every bite. The combination of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a peppery sauce makes it a satisfying meal for any night of the week. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!