Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms: A Flavorful Stir-Fry You’ll Love
Looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy chicken dinner idea? This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms recipe is your perfect solution. It’s packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and the punch of freshly ground black pepper—all tossed in a rich, savory sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a winner.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this delicious stir-fry:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini work great)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- ¼ cup water or chicken broth (optional for extra sauce)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping and slicing all your vegetables. Cut the chicken into uniform cubes for even cooking. Mince the garlic and slice the mushrooms, onions, and bell pepper. Preparing everything ahead of time makes the cooking process fast and smooth.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon soy sauce, a pinch of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 10–15 minutes. This gives the chicken extra flavor and helps it stay tender while cooking.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the onions and bell pepper, and sauté for 2–3 minutes. Then add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the oyster sauce, remaining soy sauce, and freshly ground black pepper. Pour in the cornstarch slurry and stir everything together. If you like a saucier dish, add ¼ cup of water or chicken broth.
Let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed white rice or jasmine rice
- Brown rice for a healthier option
- Stir-fried noodles
- Or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal
Garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flair.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken—searing it quickly keeps it juicy.
- Customize your veggies: try adding broccoli, carrots, or snap peas.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili oil.
- Want a thicker sauce? Increase the amount of cornstarch in the slurry slightly.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
- Chicken breast is a lean protein that supports muscle growth and keeps you full longer.
- Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and boost the immune system. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy
- Garlic and onions have anti-inflammatory properties and support heart health.
- Bell peppers are loaded with Vitamin C and other essential nutrients.
- Black pepper aids digestion and enhances nutrient absorption.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms recipe isn’t just easy—it’s bursting with restaurant-style flavor that’s healthier and more affordable to make at home. The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and black pepper delivers deep umami richness, while the vegetables add freshness and crunch.
Final Thoughts
Next time you’re craving a quick dinner with bold flavor and healthy ingredients, give this Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms a try. It comes together in under 30 minutes and will impress anyone at the dinner table. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or even as part of an Asian-inspired dinner spread.