This Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a tasty dish that comes together quickly! Tender chicken and savory mushrooms are brought to life with black pepper for a flavorful kick.
I love how this meal is ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights! Serve it over rice or with noodles, and you’ll be smiling as you enjoy each spicy bite. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless chicken thighs for their juicy flavor, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. If you like, tofu or tempeh works as a great vegetarian option—just make sure to cook it until it’s golden.
Mushrooms: Fresh button or cremini mushrooms add a lovely earthiness. If mushrooms aren’t available, you can swap in bell peppers or broccoli for a different texture and taste. Canned mushrooms can work in a pinch too, just drain them well.
Black Pepper: This dish relies on freshly ground black pepper for its kick. If you’re sensitive to heat, use less or try white pepper for a milder flavor that still adds complexity.
Oyster Sauce: This adds umami richness, but if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, hoisin sauce or mushroom-based sauce is a good alternative. Just adjust the sweetness since hoisin is sweeter.
How Do You Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
For perfectly cooked chicken, the key is to stir-fry quickly over high heat. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can steam the chicken instead of searing it.
- Preheat your skillet until it’s nice and hot before adding the oil.
- Cook the chicken until it’s just browned and no longer pink inside, about 5-6 minutes.
- Let it rest for a minute before serving; this keeps it juicy!
Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 500 grams boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 200 grams mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt to taste
- Chopped green onions or fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook. In just half an hour, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot enough before you start; this helps to get that lovely sear on the chicken!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and sliced onion to the hot oil. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they smell fragrant and the onions turn translucent. Stir often to prevent burning!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the pan, season lightly with salt, and stir-fry them for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned. Keep it moving so it cooks evenly.
4. Add the Mushrooms:
Push the chicken to one side of the pan, creating space. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and the sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are soft and have released their juices.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Mix the chicken and mushrooms together in the pan, making sure they are well blended. Next, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything well so that it’s nicely coated with the sauces.
6. Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute until the sauce thickens to your liking.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or black pepper if needed, making it just right for you!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the pan from heat and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if you’d like. Serve hot over steamed rice or with noodles for a delightful meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best method is to leave the chicken in the fridge overnight. You can also use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of black pepper or omit it entirely. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a different kind of warmth if desired.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This black pepper chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a fresh salad or a side of sautéed vegetables.
