Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a tasty dish that’s super easy to whip up! Juicy chicken pieces cook with fresh mushrooms and are coated in a flavorful peppery sauce that really packs a punch!
I love how the mushrooms add a nice texture and soak in all that delicious sauce. Serve it over rice for a meal that feels special, but is simple enough for any night of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I usually go for boneless chicken thighs as they stay juicy and tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts work too. If you’re vegetarian, try using tofu or tempeh instead!
Mushrooms: Fresh button or cremini mushrooms are great for this dish. If you can’t find fresh ones, you can use canned mushrooms, though they won’t have the same texture. Other options include shiitake or portobello for a deeper flavor.
Black Pepper: This is the star ingredient! Freshly ground black pepper gives the best flavor. If you want a milder taste, you can use white pepper. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Sauces: Soy sauce gives depth, while oyster sauce adds sweetness. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can skip the oyster sauce or use a mushroom-based sauce for a vegetarian version.
How Can I Cook Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
To keep your chicken juicy, cook it quickly over high heat. Here’s how:
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces. This helps it cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; too many pieces will steam instead of brown.
- Let the chicken brown well on one side before flipping it. This locks in moisture.
- Once it’s cooked through, remove it from the pan promptly to avoid overcooking.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Dish:
- 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 200g (7 oz) fresh mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh green onions or chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total time of about 30 minutes. Quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced onions, sautéing them until they become fragrant and the onions are translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Mushrooms:
Now, it’s time to add the sliced mushrooms! Cook them in the pan, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown and release their moisture. This should take around 4-5 minutes.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the mushrooms and onions. Then, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything well so that the sauces coat all the ingredients nicely.
5. Make the Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth or water to create a delicious sauce. Allow everything to simmer for about 2-3 minutes to let the flavors combine.
6. Thicken if Desired:
If you like a thicker sauce, now’s the time to add the cornstarch slurry. Stir it in and let it cook for another minute until the sauce thickens to your liking.
7. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and add a pinch of salt or more black pepper if you think it needs it. Remember, everyone’s taste is different!
8. Garnish and Serve:
For a beautiful finish, garnish your dish with fresh green onions or chopped parsley if you’d like. Serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Enjoy your flavorful and hearty Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms!
FAQ About Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas for added color and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the veggies you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can replace it with hoisin sauce for a sweeter flavor or a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of sugar for a similar taste profile. For a vegetarian option, look for mushroom sauce as a substitute.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Black Pepper Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! To add some heat, consider adding sliced chili peppers or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking. Adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level. Enjoy experimenting with the flavors!
