Name: Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground 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 or chicken broth

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This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms stir-fry is an easy and flavorful 25-minute dinner that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a bold pepper sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this dish brings together simple ingredients with robust flavor.

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a quick, satisfying, and savory meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something delicious without the long cook time. The combination of tender chicken, fresh mushrooms, and a peppery, umami-rich sauce is incredibly flavorful and perfect when served over steamed rice or noodles. This dish is easy to prepare, full of flavor, and ready in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal dinner for anyone looking to enjoy a home-cooked meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

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

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground 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 or chicken broth

Directions

Prep the Chicken:
Toss the sliced chicken with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until the chicken is evenly coated.
Sear the Chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Make the Sauce:
Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and water or chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Combine:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, toss it in the sauce, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve:
Serve the Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms hot over steamed jasmine rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari and gluten-free oyster sauce instead of soy sauce and regular oyster sauce.
Juicier Texture: Substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier and more tender result.
Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for more color and nutritional value.
Spicier Version: Increase the black pepper or add chili flakes for a spicier kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, more flavorful option.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, substitute tamari for soy sauce and use gluten-free oyster sauce for a gluten-free version.

3. What can I use if I don’t have oyster sauce?

You can substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or make a simple sauce using soy sauce and a little sugar.

4. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the stir-fry for extra flavor and texture.

5. Can I use frozen mushrooms for this recipe?

Fresh mushrooms are recommended for the best texture, but you can use frozen mushrooms if that’s all you have on hand. Be sure to drain any excess moisture.

6. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add extra black pepper or chili flakes for a spicier version of this dish.

7. Can I use a non-stick pan for this recipe?

Yes, a non-stick pan will work well for searing the chicken without it sticking.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just combine and heat when ready to serve.

10. Can I use another type of protein?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with beef, tofu, or shrimp for a different protein option.

Conclusion

This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms stir-fry is a quick, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a bold pepper sauce, this meal delivers a satisfying combination of flavors in just 25 minutes. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spice level for a meal that’s both versatile and delicious. Whether you’re making