If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and just the right amount of spice, this Black Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and the bold, aromatic punch of freshly ground black pepper that dances on your taste buds. With a quick marinade and simple stir-frying technique, you will have a vibrant, comforting meal ready in just 25 minutes that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Black Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the tender chicken breast to the bright green onions, every component is straightforward yet essential, making this dish both accessible and irresistibly tasty.
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced thin: Thin slices cook quickly and soak up the marinade beautifully for juicy results.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Adds an earthy depth and tender bite that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground: The star of the dish, providing that sharp, spicy kick freshly ground for maximum flavor.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings a salty umami backdrop essential for depth in the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Contributes a subtly sweet and savory note that enhances the overall richness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds a fragrant nuttiness that rounds out the dish at the end.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce slightly and gives the chicken a nice coating once cooked.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for high-heat stir-frying to achieve a beautiful sear on the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced: Provides warmth and a slight zing that lifts the whole dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts rich aromatic notes and a little punch.
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced (optional): Adds color, crunch, and a subtle sweetness that brightens the plate.
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped: Perfect fresh garnish with a mild onion flavor and vibrant green hues.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist as it finishes cooking and adds a savory base for the sauce.
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining the sliced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, freshly ground black pepper, and cornstarch in a bowl. This simple marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with rich, bold flavors that form the backbone of this dish. Letting it sit for about 10 minutes allows the chicken to soak up every drop of goodness.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the marinated chicken. Cook it until each piece develops a beautiful golden brown crust that locks in juices and flavor. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to keep it warm while you prepare the rest.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Ginger
Using the same pan, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry these aromatic champions for about 30 seconds, just until they release their fragrance and start to color the oil. This step builds a flavorful foundation, warming the pan with that irresistible garlic-ginger aroma.
Step 4: Add Mushrooms and Bell Peppers
Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and bell peppers. These ingredients bring both texture and visual appeal, with mushrooms adding a meaty chew and bell peppers delivering a fresh, crisp pop. Stir-fry everything together for 2 to 3 minutes to soften the vegetables while keeping some bite.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken back into the pan and pour in the chicken broth. This little splash keeps the dish juicy and helps develop a light sauce that coats each ingredient evenly. Cook it all together for another 2 minutes to let the flavors mingle and the sauce reduce slightly.
Step 6: Finish with Sesame Oil and Garnish
Turn off the heat and drizzle the sesame oil over the chicken and veggies for a fragrant finish that ties everything nicely together. Sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh, colorful garnish that adds just the right hint of sharpness and crunch. Serve the dish hot for the best experience.
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches can elevate this dish beautifully. Chopped green onions are a classic garnish adding a burst of color and gentle onion flavor. For an extra kick, a few red chili flakes or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds will give a delightful texture and spice boost.
Side Dishes
This Black Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy basmati, which soak up every bit of the savory sauce. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside a fresh cucumber salad or sautéed greens like bok choy or spinach to balance the strong flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, serve this dish in individual shallow bowls garnished with microgreens or edible flowers to add elegance. Or plate it family-style on a large platter, allowing everyone to help themselves, making the meal feel warm and inviting—just like sharing your favorite homemade recipe with loved ones.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep or quick lunches. The flavors may even deepen after a day, making it taste even better!
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this recipe freezes nicely. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much of its vibrant flavor or texture. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir frequently to heat evenly and avoid drying out the chicken. Alternatively, reheating in the microwave on medium power in short bursts works well for convenience.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms in this recipe?
Absolutely! While button mushrooms work well, you can easily swap in cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms for different textures and flavors. Just slice them similarly so they cook evenly.
Is this recipe spicy, and can I adjust the heat?
The freshly ground black pepper adds a noticeable but pleasant heat that complements the dish. If you prefer it milder, reduce the black pepper slightly. For extra heat, consider adding chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies.
Can I substitute chicken breast with other proteins?
Sure! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative and stay juicy. You can also use tofu or shrimp if you want to mix things up, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a small bit of sugar to mimic its sweet-savory complexity. Keep in mind the flavor will vary slightly.
How important is the marinade time?
While 10 minutes is ideal for the flavors to penetrate, if you’re in a hurry, even 5 minutes can still make a difference. The marinade adds depth and helps tenderize the chicken, so don’t skip it if you can help it.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Black Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms Recipe is like inviting a burst of flavors into your kitchen that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether it becomes your quick weeknight go-to or a special dish to impress friends, its simplicity and bold taste are sure to win hearts. Give it a try, and get ready to savor every peppery, savory bite!
PrintBlack Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms Recipe
A quick and flavorful Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms recipe featuring tender chicken breast slices marinated in savory sauces and freshly ground black pepper, stir-fried with mushrooms and optional bell peppers for a deliciously aromatic dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced thin
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cooking Oils and Broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with soy sauce, oyster sauce, freshly ground black pepper, and cornstarch. Mix thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly and let it marinate for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until the chicken pieces turn golden brown and are almost cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the sliced mushrooms and optional bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables soften but still retain some crispness.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Finish and Garnish: Drizzle the sesame oil over the dish and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Give it a final stir and serve hot for a delicious meal.
Notes
- For extra heat, you can add sliced chili peppers along with the garlic and ginger.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it towards the end of cooking.
- Serve this dish with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Adjust the amount of black pepper according to your spice preference.
- You can substitute chicken breast with thigh meat for juicier results.