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Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Alyssa

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Enjoy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms: a savory, spicy stir-fry with tender chicken, mushrooms, and bold black pepper sauce. A delicious main dish.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces, this is the protein base of the dish, providing flavor and texture.
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce: This adds umami and a touch of saltiness to the chicken marinade.
  • 1 tsp cornstarch: Essential for creating a velvety texture and helping the sauce adhere to the chicken.
  • ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a warm heat that can be adjusted based on personal preference.
  • ½ tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor of the marinade.
For the sauce:
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce: Brings depth and seasoning to the overall flavor profile.
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce: Adds a rich slightly sweet umami flavor that is characteristic of many Asian dishes.
  • 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar: Balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
  • ½ tsp sesame oil: Infuses a nutty aroma that rounds out the sauce.
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Enhances the dish's signature peppery flavor.
  • ½ cup chicken broth: Provides moisture and helps create a sauce with the right consistency.
  • 1 tsp cornstarch for thickening: Thickens the sauce for a perfect cling to the chicken and vegetables.
For the stir-fry:
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Used for frying and adds a clean flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic minced: Releases a pungent aroma and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • 1- inch piece of ginger grated: Adds warmth and complexity with its zesty note.
  • 1 medium onion sliced: Provides a sweet and savory base that complements the other ingredients.
  • 1 ½ cups mushrooms sliced: Choose shiitake, cremini, or button mushrooms; they add earthiness and texture.
  • ½ red bell pepper sliced, optional for color: Introduces sweetness and a vibrant hue.
  • ½ green bell pepper sliced, optional for color: Adds a crunchy texture and additional color.
  • 2 green onions chopped, for garnish: Brightens the dish with fresh flavor and color.
  • Sesame seeds optional, for garnish: Provides a decorative finish and nutty flavor.

Method
 

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix together the 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp cornstarch, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp garlic powder. Let the mixture marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. The cornstarch will create a velvety texture, and help the sauce cling to the chicken.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp honey (or brown sugar), ½ tsp sesame oil, ½ cup chicken broth, 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening). Set this mixture aside; it will act as the flavorful black pepper sauce that brings everything together.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
  4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pan. Sauté the 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1-inch piece of grated ginger, and 1 medium sliced onion for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the 1 ½ cups of sliced mushrooms and the optional ½ red and ½ green bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the prepared black pepper sauce and mix well, ensuring the sauce coats all the ingredients. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using) on top. Serve the flavorful Black Pepper Chicken hot, over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy!