Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe

The Bold Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe You’ll Love

Succulent chicken sings with bold black pepper chicken flavors, creating a harmony of spice and umami.

Tender meat absorbs rich seasonings that dance across your palate.

mushrooms add an earthy depth to every delectable bite.

The recipe promises a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Fragrant herbs and robust spices blend seamlessly in this culinary masterpiece.

Each forkful delivers a perfect balance of savory goodness.

Savor the magic of this irresistible dish that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience.

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Highlights

  • Black pepper adds a bold, zesty kick that transforms ordinary chicken into an exciting, flavor-packed dish.
  • This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
  • Packed with colorful vegetables and tender chicken, this dish appeals to both adults and kids, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.
  • You'll create a delicious, restaurant-style meal without the need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Ingredient Roundup for Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Protein Base:
  • Chicken: Tender meat that forms the main protein of the dish and absorbs the flavorful seasonings.
Seasonings and Coating:
  • Cornstarch, Salt, Black Pepper: Dry ingredients that help coat the chicken and create a light, crispy exterior.
Vegetables:
  • Onion, Bell Pepper, Mushrooms, Garlic: Fresh ingredients that add depth, texture, and aromatic flavors to the dish.
Sauce Components:
  • Soy Sauce, Oyster Sauce, Honey, Rice Vinegar: Liquid ingredients that create a rich, balanced, and slightly sweet sauce.
Cooking Ingredients:
  • Vegetable Oil: Neutral oil used for stir-frying chicken and vegetables.
Garnish:
  • Green Onions: Fresh herb that adds a bright, mild onion flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions:
  • Rice, Noodles: Starchy base that complements the chicken and sauce.

Equipment for Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

  • Large Skillet: Essential for stir-frying chicken and vegetables with even heat distribution.
  • Cutting Board: Needed for slicing chicken, onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms safely.
  • Sharp Knife: Perfect for precise vegetable and meat preparation.
  • Measuring Spoons: Helps accurately measure salt, pepper, and sauces.
  • Whisk: Crucial for blending sauce ingredients smoothly.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring and tossing ingredients during cooking.
  • Mixing Bowl: Used for seasoning chicken with cornstarch and spices.

Cooking Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Coating

Mix sliced chicken with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper, ensuring every piece gets an even, flavorful dusting.

Step 2: Sear Chicken Pieces

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook chicken until golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally.

Transfer chicken to a separate plate.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetable Medley

In the same skillet, cook vegetables with a delightful sequence:
  • Onions
  • Bell peppers
  • Mushrooms
  • Garlic

Stir-fry until vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Create Flavor-Packed Sauce

Blend these ingredients into a harmonious sauce:
  • Soy sauce
  • Oyster sauce
  • Honey
  • Rice vinegar
  • Black pepper

Whisk until completely combined and smooth.

Step 5: Reunite Chicken and Vegetables

Pour sauce over vegetables, then return chicken to the skillet.

Toss everything together, allowing flavors to mingle and heat through completely.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Sprinkle fresh green onions over the dish.

Serve piping hot alongside steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Handy Tips for Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

  • Use cornstarch to create a crispy, golden exterior on chicken that locks in moisture and helps sauce cling perfectly.
  • Freshly ground black pepper delivers more intense flavor compared to pre-ground pepper, enhancing the dish's overall taste profile.
  • Cook chicken first, then vegetables in the same pan to preserve flavor layers and minimize dish cleanup.
  • Whisk sauce ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of honey and prevent clumping, creating a smooth, glossy coating.
  • Maintain medium-high heat for stir-frying to achieve quick browning without burning chicken or vegetables.

Creative Ideas for Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

  • Spicy Cayenne Kick: Replace black pepper with cayenne pepper for a fiery version that adds intense heat to the chicken dish.
  • Low-Sodium Friendly: Swap regular soy sauce with low-sodium tamari and reduce added salt to create a heart-healthy alternative.
  • Vegetarian Mushroom Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, maintaining the same cooking technique and sauce for a plant-based protein option.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free cornstarch, tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure oyster sauce is gluten-free to make the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Serving Inspiration

  • Rustic Comfort Plate: Serve this black pepper chicken over steamed jasmine rice for a classic, hearty meal that absorbs the rich, savory sauce perfectly.
  • Meal Prep Champion: Package individual portions with rice and extra sauce in meal prep containers for easy, delicious lunches throughout the week.
  • Fresh Herb Boost: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or Thai basil on top just before serving to add a bright, aromatic layer of flavor that complements the peppery chicken.
  • Quick Pairing Trick: Pair with a crisp cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar to balance the dish's bold, spicy profile and provide a refreshing contrast.

Storing Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Well

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the chicken and sauce together to maintain moisture and flavor. Refrigerated black pepper chicken stays fresh for 3-4 days.
  • Transfer cooled chicken to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2-3 months without losing quality.
  • Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few drops of water to prevent drying. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

  • Why use cornstarch when seasoning chicken?

Cornstarch helps create a crispy exterior, locks in moisture, and allows the chicken to brown beautifully without drying out during stir-frying.

  • Can I substitute oyster sauce if I don't have it?

Yes, you can use hoisin sauce or additional soy sauce as alternatives, though the flavor profile will slightly change from the original recipe.

  • What type of mushrooms work best in this recipe?

Button mushrooms, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms are excellent choices that complement the black pepper chicken’s robust flavors and provide great texture.

  • How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a dash of chili oil, or include some sliced fresh chili peppers when cooking the vegetables to increase the heat level and add extra kick to the dish.

Print
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Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Recipe


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4.7 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Succulent black pepper chicken with mushrooms delivers a flavor explosion from Chinese culinary traditions. Spicy and savory notes blend perfectly, creating a memorable dining experience for home cooks craving authentic Asian cuisine.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

Seasonings and Coating:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) freshly ground black pepper

Vegetables:

  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
  • 8 ounces (226 g) mushrooms (shiitake or button), sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (2.5 g) freshly ground black pepper

Cooking Oil:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil, divided

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken by thoroughly coating sliced pieces with cornstarch, salt, and finely ground black pepper, ensuring an even and light dusting that will create a delicate crispy exterior.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, around 375°F. Carefully stir-fry the seasoned chicken until golden brown and slightly crisp, approximately 4-5 minutes. Transfer cooked chicken to a separate plate.
  3. Using the same skillet, sauté sliced onions and bell peppers until they become slightly translucent and tender, about 2-3 minutes. Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, continuing to cook until mushrooms release their moisture and become lightly caramelized.
  4. Create a robust sauce by whisking together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and an additional layer of freshly cracked black pepper, blending flavors that will enhance the dish’s overall complexity.
  5. Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetable mixture, then gently reintroduce the cooked chicken into the skillet. Toss everything together, allowing the ingredients to meld and heat uniformly for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Finish the dish by sprinkling freshly chopped green onions on top for a bright, sharp contrast. Serve immediately over steamed rice or tender noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Coating chicken with cornstarch creates a delicate, crispy exterior that helps seal in moisture and prevents sticking during stir-frying.
  • Use freshly ground black pepper for a more intense, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish’s taste profile.
  • Choose bone-in or boneless chicken depending on preference, but ensure consistent slice thickness for even cooking and tender meat.
  • If avoiding soy sauce, substitute with coconut aminos for a gluten-free and lower-sodium alternative that maintains a similar umami depth.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

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