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
1. Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Bold flavor: A rich, peppery sauce complements the tender chicken and mushrooms.
3. Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level.
4. Healthy and nutritious: A protein-packed dish with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup water
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. In a bowl, combine the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the vegetables: Add the remaining vegetable oil to the skillet and add the onion and mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sauce: Add the garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and water to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Thicken the sauce: Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Add the chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables.
7. Season with black pepper: Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. Serve: Garnish with green onions if desired and serve hot with rice or noodles.
Notes
1. Adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your spice tolerance. Freshly ground black pepper works best for maximum flavor.
2. For extra heat, add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil.
3. This recipe works well with other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added variety.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- 1. 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 auce 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!