Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

The Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and savory mushrooms, all enveloped in a zesty black pepper sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this stir fry is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices makes it a standout option for any occasion. Whether served over steamed rice or enjoyed on its own, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: This dish allows you to use a variety of mushrooms and vegetables, making it easy to customize based on your preferences.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The unique blend of black pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from vegetables, this stir fry makes for a nutritious dinner choice.
• One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup is guaranteed since everything cooks in one skillet or wok.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that streamline the cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet or Wok
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet or Wok: A large cooking surface ensures even heat distribution for optimal sautéing of chicken and vegetables.
• Mixing Bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together before cooking, ensuring flavors meld perfectly.
• Whisk: Handy for combining sauces smoothly without lumps, enhancing the final dish’s texture.

Ingredients

This mushroom chicken stir fry features tender sautéed mushrooms and golden pan-fried chicken cubes tossed in a savory black pepper stir fry sauce.

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon plus 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce, divided
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Vegetables

• 12 oz mixed mushrooms (shiitakes, oysters, cremini, button, etc), thinly sliced
• 1 small bunch green onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 3 medium cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice grape juice vinegar
• Coarsely-ground black pepper to taste
• Kosher salt to taste

To Serve

• Steamed rice and additional sliced green onions for serving

How to Make Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place chicken in a large bowl and toss with cornstarch, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmery. Working in batches:
1. Add chicken in a single layer.
2. Sear until golden brown.
3. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan:
1. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add mushrooms and green onions; cook for 2-4 minutes until tender.
3. Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat briefly.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl:
Whisk together the remaining 1/3 cup soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, oyster sauce, and rice grape juice vinegar until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the pan with mushrooms to stovetop over medium-high heat:
1. Add the seared chicken back into the pan along with the sauce mixture.
2. Toss everything together over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats both mushrooms and chicken.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season stir fry with additional black pepper and salt if needed. Serve hot over steamed rice garnished with more green onions for an extra touch of flavor!

How to Serve Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

Serving Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. This dish is both comforting and versatile, making it suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.

With Steamed Rice

• Perfect Pairing: Serve the stir fry over a bed of fluffy steamed rice to soak up the savory sauce.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Fresh Touch: Sprinkle additional sliced green onions on top for a burst of freshness and color.

Accompanied by Pickled Vegetables

• Tangy Flavor: Add a side of pickled vegetables to introduce a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the stir fry.

Served in Lettuce Wraps

• Low-Carb Option: For a lighter meal, serve the stir fry in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing crunch.

With Side Salad

• Crisp & Light: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the flavors while adding texture.

With Noodles

• Hearty Alternative: Serve over cooked noodles for an extra satisfying meal, perfect for noodle lovers.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

Creating an exceptional Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry requires attention to detail and some handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and mushrooms enhance flavor and texture, making your dish more vibrant.
• Control the Heat: Start with medium-high heat to achieve that desirable sear on your chicken, locking in juices.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more black pepper or salt based on your preference for spice.
• Let Sauce Thicken: Allow the sauce to cook down until it coats the chicken and mushrooms nicely; this intensifies the flavors.
• Prep Ahead: Chop all ingredients before cooking. This makes the cooking process smoother and quicker.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with your Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry can elevate your meal further. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of rice, vegetables, and eggs that complements the stir fry beautifully.
2. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious side filled with protein and fiber, offering a nutty taste that pairs well with chicken.
3. Garlic Broccoli: Tender steamed broccoli tossed in garlic adds a healthy crunch alongside your dish.
4. Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with sesame seeds provide both texture and flavor balance.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw dressed lightly will add freshness and acidity against the savory stir fry.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup brings umami depth to your dining experience, perfect before or after your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry, avoid these common pitfalls for a perfect dish every time.

• Skipping the cornstarch: Not using cornstarch can lead to a less crispy chicken. Coat the chicken evenly to achieve that delightful texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much chicken at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches to ensure even browning and flavor.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in a bland stir fry. Always check for salt and pepper before serving.
• Using low-quality soy sauce: Poor quality soy sauce can affect the dish’s overall flavor. Opt for a good brand of low-sodium soy sauce for the best results.
• Cooking vegetables too long: Overcooking mushrooms and green onions can make them mushy. Stir-fry just until tender for better texture and taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the stir fry to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, stirring regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry?

Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful dish featuring sautéed chicken and mushrooms tossed in a savory black pepper sauce.

Can I use other vegetables in this stir fry?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

How can I customize the spice level?

To increase spiciness, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking.

What type of mushrooms are best for this recipe?

A mix of shiitake, cremini, and button mushrooms provides great flavor and texture but feel free to use your favorites!

Conclusion

This Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your choice of vegetables or proteins. Give it a try for a quick weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor!

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