Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together tender chicken and flavorful mushrooms in a creamy sauce. This dish is not only satisfying but also easy to make, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys simple, yet flavorful meals. The combination of black pepper and fresh mushrooms adds a unique taste to the chicken, while the creamy sauce makes the dish comforting and rich. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen!
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
To make this tasty dish, follow these simple steps.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1¾ lb)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Directions
- Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Make sure they’re well coated for that perfect kick!
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden and are cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until they’re nicely browned. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an extra 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the pan. That’s flavor right there!
- Stir in the heavy cream and the Dijon mustard, allowing the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add the butter and return the chicken to the skillet, spooning that luscious sauce over the top. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot over pasta, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes.
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
You can serve this dish over a bed of fluffy rice, pasta, or creamy mashed potatoes. The rich sauce will nicely coat whatever you choose. Adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad can also provide a great balance to the meal.
How to Store Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
To store leftovers, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, but the texture may change slightly when reheated.
Tips to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
- For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the spices and a bit of oil for an hour before cooking.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce!
Variation
You can swap out chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer. Thighs tend to be juicier and can add a different flavor profile to the dish. For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when you are ready to serve. Just be careful not to overcook it during reheating.
What can I do if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with yellow mustard or omit it entirely. The dish will still be delicious!
With these simple steps, you can enjoy a flavorful and comforting meal any night of the week. Happy cooking!
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