Introduction
Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a delightful dish that beautifully combines spices and savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. The juicy chicken thighs, coupled with earthy mushrooms, are infused with the unmistakable warmth of black pepper sauce, creating a meal that is both comforting and exciting.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces – 500g
Button mushrooms, sliced – 200g
Onion, thinly sliced – 1
Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
Soy sauce – 30ml
Oyster sauce – 15ml
Freshly ground black pepper – 10g
Sugar – 5g
Vegetable oil – 15ml
Chicken broth – 50ml
Cornstarch, mixed with water – 20g cornstarch with 20ml water
Spring onions, chopped – 50g
Prep Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and sugar. Add the chicken pieces and mix well. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, and cook until they are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pan, add sliced onions and garlic, and sauté until onions are translucent.
4. Add the mushrooms to the pan, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they release their juices.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, and add the chicken broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Slowly add in the cornstarch slurry while stirring, letting the sauce thicken.
7. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is nicely thickened.
8. Garnish with chopped spring onions before serving.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and sugar. Add the chicken pieces and mix well. Let this mixture marinate for at least 20 minutes. The aromas of the soy and oyster sauces will begin to infuse the chicken with deep, savory flavors.
Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces carefully, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook until they are golden brown, which should take approximately 5-7 minutes. The sizzling sound and warm aroma will fill your kitchen, indicating the chicken is cooking to perfection.
Sauté Onions and Garlic
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the sliced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This step helps build a flavorful base for the dish, with the sweetness of the onions complementing the richness of the garlic.
Add Mushrooms
Incorporate the sliced mushrooms into the pan, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until they soften and release their juices. The earthy scent of the mushrooms will deepen the dish’s flavor profile and create a delightful aroma.
Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Thicken the Sauce
Slowly add the cornstarch slurry to the pan while stirring continuously. This will help thicken the sauce, creating a silky, rich texture that clings to the chicken and mushrooms.
Final Cooking
Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the sauce has thickened to your liking. The dish should now be bubbling enticingly, with the black pepper adding a warm kick.
Garnish
Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped spring onions for a burst of color and freshness. They’ll provide a beautiful contrast to the dish and an additional layer of flavor.
Notes
Marinating Time
For the best flavor, it’s beneficial to marinate the chicken longer if time permits, up to a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Mushroom Variations
Feel free to swap button mushrooms for other types, such as shiitake or cremini, to enhance the depth of flavor.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. If you enjoy more heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes as well.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delightful sauce. A side of stir-fried vegetables can add a vibrant touch to your meal.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and sugar helps enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Aim for at least 20 minutes for optimal results.
Searing
Searing the chicken pieces in hot oil creates a golden brown exterior, providing a rich flavor base for the dish. Ensure the pan is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice crust.
Sautéing
Sautéing the onions and garlic enhances their flavors through caramelization, adding depth to the dish. Cook until the onions are translucent for the best results.
Deglazing
After removing the chicken, deglaze the pan with the additions of mushrooms, allowing them to absorb the flavorful bits left behind. This technique enhances the sauce’s complexity.
Thickening
Using a cornstarch slurry is an effective way to thicken sauces quickly. Add it gradually while stirring to ensure a smooth consistency without clumps.
Garnishing
Garnish with chopped spring onions for a fresh and colorful finish that adds a mild onion flavor and enhances the overall presentation of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but keep in mind that chicken thighs are typically juicier and more flavorful.
What types of mushrooms can I use?
While button mushrooms are used in this recipe, you can experiment with other mushrooms like shiitake, cremini, or even portobello for different flavors and textures.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat before serving.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, to make it gluten-free, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is also gluten-free.
How can I adjust the spiciness?
To alter the heat level, you can decrease the amount of black pepper or add more for a spicier dish. Adjust to your preference for spiciness.
Conclusion
This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms dish is a perfect blend of flavors that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining experience. With the harmonious mix of juicy chicken thighs, earthy mushrooms, and a spicy black pepper sauce, it’s an excellent choice for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Easy to prepare and packed with savory goodness, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Black Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry
Transform the dish into a stir-fry by adding bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas for an extra crunch and vibrant colors. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Spicy Black Pepper Chicken Tacos
For a fun twist, use the sautéed chicken and mushrooms as a filling for soft corn tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado for a spicy taco night.
Black Pepper Chicken Fried Rice
Turn leftovers into fried rice by mixing in cooked rice, peas, and carrots. Stir-fry everything together with soy sauce and an extra sprinkle of black pepper for a quick and tasty meal.
Black Pepper Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
Pair the dish with roasted seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. The crispy veggies complement the tender chicken and mushrooms beautifully.
Black Pepper Chicken Salad
Slice the cooked chicken and mushrooms and toss them over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad option.
