Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Black pepper chicken with mushrooms is a savory, stir-fried dish featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a bold, peppery sauce. This quick and easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors at home and pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bold flavor: A rich, peppery sauce complements the tender chicken and mushrooms.
• Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level.
• Healthy and nutritious: A protein-packed dish with wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken and Marinade:

• Chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
• Soy sauce
• Cornstarch
• Sesame oil

For the Stir-Fry:

• Mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
• Bell peppers, sliced (optional)
• Onion, thinly sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, minced
• Black pepper, freshly ground

For the Sauce:

• Soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
• Oyster sauce
• Chicken broth or water
• Honey or brown sugar
• Cornstarch (for thickening)

Garnish:

• Green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Add the sliced chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate for 15 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken broth, honey, and cornstarch. Set aside.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and stir-fry the chicken until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Stir-fry the vegetables: Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Stir-fry the garlic, ginger, mushrooms, onion, and bell peppers (if using) until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Add the chicken and sauce: Return the chicken to the pan. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat. Sprinkle generously with freshly ground black pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili for extra heat.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.
• Extra veggies: Include broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini for added color and nutrients.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and check the labels on the oyster sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

1. What type of mushrooms are best for this recipe?

Button, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms work wonderfully, but any variety you prefer will do.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are flavorful and work perfectly in this recipe.

3. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Marinating the chicken and cooking it quickly over high heat helps keep it tender.

4. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store separately and stir-fry just before serving.

5. Can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra black pepper, chili paste, or sliced fresh chilies for more heat.

6. Is oyster sauce necessary?

Oyster sauce adds depth and umami, but you can substitute with hoisin sauce or soy sauce if needed.

7. Can I use pre-ground black pepper?

Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor, but pre-ground can be used if necessary.

8. What side dishes pair well with black pepper chicken?

Serve with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or stir-fried noodles. A side of sautéed greens or egg rolls complements it nicely.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

The dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

10. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but add the chicken in the final step to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

Black pepper chicken with mushrooms is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining. With its rich, peppery sauce and tender chicken, this stir-fry pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles for a complete meal. Try this recipe today and bring bold flavors to your table!

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