Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Cooking has always been my way of unwinding after a long day.
When I stumbled upon the recipe for Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms, it felt like a culinary revelation.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a quick solution for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a kick of spice, it’s perfect for impressing family or friends.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
This Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a game-changer for your weeknight dinners.
It’s quick to whip up, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish.
The flavors are bold yet balanced, making every bite a delight.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to please picky eaters while still satisfying those who crave a little heat.
You’ll love how effortlessly it transforms a simple meal into something extraordinary!
Ingredients for Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering dish.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, tender and juicy, perfect for absorbing flavors.
- Soy sauce: Adds a savory depth, enhancing the umami profile of the dish.
- Cornstarch: Helps to tenderize the chicken and gives it a nice sear when cooked.
- Vegetable oil: Ideal for stir-frying, it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
- Mushrooms: I prefer button or shiitake for their earthy taste and meaty texture.
- Bell pepper: Any color works! It adds sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
- Onion: Sliced onions bring a subtle sweetness and depth to the stir-fry.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must for that aromatic kick.
- Fresh ginger: Adds warmth and a hint of spice, elevating the overall flavor.
- Black pepper: The key ingredient for that spicy kick; adjust to your heat preference.
- Oyster sauce: A rich, savory sauce that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Rice vinegar: Provides a tangy contrast, balancing the richness of the dish.
- Sugar: Just a touch to round out the flavors and enhance the sweetness of the veggies.
- Salt: To taste, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Green onions: Chopped for garnish, they add freshness and a nice crunch.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes.
If you want to switch things up, tofu or shrimp can be great substitutes for the chicken.
Exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
How to Make Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Creating this Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a breeze.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the bite-sized chicken pieces in a medium bowl.
Add soy sauce and cornstarch, mixing everything well.
Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
This step is crucial; it helps the chicken absorb those savory flavors and ensures a tender bite.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken.
Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps achieve that perfect sear.
Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms, bell pepper, and onion.
Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender but still crisp.
This is where the magic happens; the flavors meld beautifully.
The vibrant colors will make your kitchen feel alive!
Step 4: Combine and Season
Now, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet.
Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then sprinkle in the black pepper, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar.
Stir everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
Taste and season with salt as needed.
This is your moment to adjust the spice level!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well combined and heated through, it’s time to serve.
Garnish with chopped green onions for that fresh crunch.
Serve your Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms over steamed rice or noodles.
Dig in and enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!
Tips for Success
- Prep all your ingredients before starting to cook. It makes the process smoother.
- Adjust the black pepper to your heat preference; start with less if you’re unsure.
- Use a wok for better heat distribution and quicker cooking.
- Don’t skip the marinating step; it’s key for flavor and tenderness.
- Feel free to add more veggies like broccoli or snap peas for extra nutrition.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok: Essential for stir-frying; a non-stick pan works too.
- Medium bowl: For marinating the chicken; any mixing bowl will do.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and flipping ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping veggies and chicken.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist.
- Seafood Delight: Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken for a seafood version that cooks quickly.
- Extra Veggies: Add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha for an extra heat boost.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your soy sauce and oyster sauce are gluten-free for a safe option.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms over fluffy steamed rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
- Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the spice.
- A chilled beer or a refreshing iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.
- For presentation, garnish with extra green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
FAQs about Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Can I make Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This will enhance the flavors even more!
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives, tofu or shrimp work wonderfully. Both options absorb the flavors beautifully and provide a different texture to the dish.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To control the heat, start with less black pepper and gradually add more to your taste. You can also include sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes for an extra kick!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce, this Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms can be enjoyed by those following a gluten-free diet.
What sides pair well with this dish?
This dish is fantastic over steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with a light salad or some stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy.
The vibrant colors and bold flavors come together to make your kitchen feel alive.
Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste, perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this dish is a fantastic way to impress without the stress.
So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the spice, and enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade meal that’s sure to become a favorite!
Print
Spicy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms: A Must-Try Delight!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and spicy dish featuring tender chicken pieces stir-fried with mushrooms and bell peppers, perfect for a quick meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms, bell pepper, and onion. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and add black pepper, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Season with salt to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes.
- Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: varies
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: varies
- Unsaturated Fat: varies
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: varies
