Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

The Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and an array of savory mushrooms in a flavorful black pepper sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Its unique combination of textures and tastes will please even the pickiest eaters, while the quick cooking time ensures that you can whip it up in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This stir fry can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor-Packed: The savory black pepper sauce enhances the taste of the chicken and mushrooms, creating a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever mixed mushrooms you have on hand to customize the dish to your liking.
• Healthy Option: With lean chicken and plenty of vegetables, this stir fry is a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your kitchen tools. Having these essentials ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for even cooking and allows ingredients to stir-fry without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for tossing chicken with cornstarch and seasoning to ensure even coating.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing sauces smoothly without lumps.

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
• 4-5 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

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

For Serving:

• Steamed rice and additional sliced green onions

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: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmery.
* Working in batches, add chicken in a single layer and sear until golden brown.
* Repeat cooking with remaining chicken, adding additional 1-2 tablespoons oil to pan as needed.
Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

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

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 Ingredients

Return the pan with mushrooms to stovetop over medium-high heat.
Add the cooked chicken along with the sauce mixture to the pan. Toss everything together over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats both mushrooms and chicken evenly.

Step 6: Final Seasoning & Serve

Season your stir fry with additional black pepper and salt to taste if needed. Serve over steamed rice with extra sliced green onions on top for added flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

This Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry is a versatile dish that can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal on a busy weeknight or want to impress guests, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the stir fry over fluffy steamed rice to absorb the savory black pepper sauce. This classic pairing is filling and satisfying.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Scoop some stir fry into fresh lettuce leaves for a crunchy, low-carb option. Add sliced cucumbers and shredded carrots for extra texture.

With Noodles

• Toss the stir fry with cooked noodles, such as rice noodles or udon, for a hearty meal. The noodles will soak up the flavors beautifully.

Topped with Extra Green Onions

• Garnish your dish with additional sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. This adds color and enhances the overall flavor profile.

As Part of a Meal Prep Bowl

• Divide the stir fry into meal prep containers with sides like quinoa or brown rice and steamed vegetables. Perfect for healthy lunches throughout the week!

With a Side Salad

• Pair the stir fry with a light side salad dressed in sesame vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the rich flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

To create an exceptional Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken make all the difference in flavor, ensuring your stir fry tastes its best.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than searing, affecting texture.
• Control Your Heat: Maintain medium-high heat throughout cooking to get golden-brown chicken and tender mushrooms without burning.
• Add Sauce Gradually: Pour in the sauce gradually while tossing to evenly coat all ingredients without overwhelming them.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste before serving; you may need extra salt or black pepper based on personal preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the stir fry to rest for a minute before serving helps meld flavors together, resulting in a more cohesive dish.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

Serving Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry can be complemented by various delicious side dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and crunch while balancing out the richness of the stir fry.
2. Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice dish mixed with peas, carrots, and eggs makes for a hearty pairing that complements any stir fry.
3. Garlic Bok Choy: Sautéed bok choy with garlic brings freshness and slight bitterness that contrasts nicely with savory chicken.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a cool contrast to warm stir fry, enhancing overall enjoyment.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs offers an excellent gluten-free base that absorbs flavors well from the stir fry sauce.
6. Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of egg drop soup serves as a comforting starter that prepares your palate for the main event.
7. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables add texture and fun finger food appeal to your meal.
8. Miso Soup: A light miso soup acts as an elegant appetizer, cleansing your palate before diving into bold flavors of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the cornstarch: Failing to coat the chicken in cornstarch can lead to a lack of crispiness. This step helps create a delicious texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much chicken at once can steam it rather than sear it. Cook in batches for even browning and better flavor.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can result in a bland stir fry. Taste your dish as you go and adjust the salt and pepper levels accordingly.
• Ignoring vegetable doneness: Cooking mushrooms and green onions for too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly crisp vegetables.
• Using low-quality soy sauce: Poor-quality soy sauce can negatively affect the dish’s flavor. Opt for low-sodium varieties that maintain taste without overwhelming saltiness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until thoroughly warmed.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best chicken to use for Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry?

Boneless skinless chicken thighs work best due to their tenderness and flavor. However, boneless chicken breasts can also be used if preferred.

Can I use different vegetables?

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

How spicy is this stir fry?

The spice level mainly comes from black pepper. You can adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry with steamed rice or noodles, along with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables for balance.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! This stir fry stores well and is perfect for meal prepping. Just follow storage tips mentioned above.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry is not only quick and easy but also versatile and flavorful. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious meal that satisfies every time!

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