Spicy Black Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms Recipe

The Perfect Black Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms Recipe for Dinner

A simple black pepper chicken with mushrooms can become your go-to comfort meal when hunger strikes unexpectedly.

Culinary magic happens when tender chicken meets earthy mushrooms and sharp spices.

Weeknight dinners demand quick, delicious solutions that don’t compromise on flavor.

Fragrant and bold, this dish combines lean protein with rich, umami-packed ingredients.

Slicing chicken into bite-sized pieces ensures every morsel absorbs the robust seasoning perfectly.

Minimal prep work means you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under thirty minutes.

One taste and you’ll understand why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your cooking rotation.

FAQs

  • Why marinate the chicken?

Marinating helps the chicken absorb flavors, tenderize the meat, and ensure each bite is seasoned perfectly with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and black pepper.

  • Can I use different mushrooms?

Absolutely! While the recipe works great with standard mushrooms, you can experiment with shiitake, cremini, or button mushrooms to add variety and unique flavor profiles.

  • How spicy is this black pepper chicken?

The recipe has a mild black pepper kick that adds warmth without overwhelming heat, making it suitable for most taste preferences. You can adjust pepper amount to increase or decrease spiciness.

  • Is cornstarch important in this recipe?

Yes, cornstarch helps create a light coating on chicken, locks in moisture, and helps thicken the sauce, giving the dish a glossy, restaurant-style finish.

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms to Savor

Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms to Savor
  • Quick Flavor Boost: Combines bold black pepper with savory soy and oyster sauce, creating a rich, umami-packed dish that transforms simple chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal.
  • Speedy Weeknight Winner: Requires minimal prep and cooks rapidly, making it perfect for busy households craving a delicious home-cooked dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Versatile Protein Power: Easily adaptable recipe that works with different mushroom varieties and can be customized to suit personal taste preferences or pantry ingredients.
  • One-Pan Convenience: Minimizes cleanup with a single pan cooking method, allowing you to enjoy a delectable meal without dealing with multiple dirty dishes afterward.

Key Ingredients for This Savory Chicken Dish

Protein:
  • Chicken: Tender meat sliced for a quick and flavorful stir-fry.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Garlic, Ginger: Provide a classic Asian flavor base and aromatic foundation for the dish.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a sharp and spicy kick to the chicken marinade.
  • Soy Sauce, Oyster Sauce: Deliver depth and umami flavor to the chicken.
  • Salt, Sugar: Balance and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
  • Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty and rich finishing flavor.
Vegetables and Liquid:
  • Mushrooms: Earthy and tender complement to the chicken.
  • Green Onions: Fresh garnish that adds a light, crisp flavor.
  • Chicken Broth: Creates a light sauce and helps to simmer the ingredients.
  • Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce and coat the chicken.
  • Cooking Oil: Used for stir-frying and preventing ingredients from sticking to the pan.

Cooking Instructions for Black Pepper Chicken and Mushrooms

Cooking Instructions for Black Pepper Chicken and Mushrooms

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Mixture

Mix sliced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper in a bowl. Allow the chicken to marinate and absorb the flavors for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Awaken the Aromatics

Place a pan over medium-high heat and add oil. Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger, sauteing until the kitchen fills with their fragrant aroma.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Transfer the marinated chicken into the pan. Stir-fry the pieces until they are completely cooked through and have a golden exterior, which takes about 5-6 minutes.

Step 4: Introduce the Mushrooms

Add the mushrooms to the pan along with:
  • Salt
  • Sugar

Stir-fry the mixture for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to soften and absorb the surrounding flavors.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour chicken broth into the pan and let the mixture simmer.

The liquid will reduce and create a slightly thickened sauce in about 2 minutes.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Drizzle sesame oil over the dish and sprinkle chopped green onions on top.

Serve the black pepper chicken with steamed rice for a delicious meal.

Helpful Notes for Flavor and Texture

  • Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor infusion and more tender meat.
  • Use high-heat cooking oil like peanut or vegetable oil for better stir-frying results.
  • Choose fresh button or shiitake mushrooms for enhanced texture and umami taste.
  • Control cornstarch amount to achieve perfect sauce consistency without making it too thick.
  • Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this delicious dish.

Ways to Enhance This Classic Dish

  • Vegetarian Mushroom Stir-Fry: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, using same marinade and cooking method for a plant-based protein alternative.
  • Low-Sodium Version: Swap soy sauce with coconut aminos, reduce salt, and use low-sodium chicken broth to create a heart-healthy option.
  • Spicy Black Pepper Mushroom Blend: Add red chili flakes or sriracha sauce during cooking to increase heat level and create a more intense flavor profile.
  • Keto-Friendly Adaptation: Eliminate cornstarch, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice, and increase mushroom quantity for a low-carb meal that maintains original recipe's essence.

Side Dishes That Pair Well with Black Pepper Chicken

  • Cozy Family Dinner Delight: Serve this black pepper chicken over steamed jasmine rice for a comforting meal that brings everyone together around the table.
  • Healthy Lunch Prep Champion: Pack individual portions in meal prep containers with extra vegetables for a protein-packed workday lunch that stays flavorful and exciting.
  • Restaurant-Style Plating Magic: Arrange the chicken and mushrooms on a white plate, sprinkle extra green onions, and drizzle sesame oil for an Instagram-worthy presentation that looks professionally prepared.
  • Flavor Boosting Sidekick: Pair with quick pickled cucumber salad or stir-fried bok choy to add freshness and balance the rich, peppery chicken flavor.

How to Store Leftovers Safely and Deliciously

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Refrigerate the black pepper chicken with mushrooms for up to 3-4 days, keeping the dish sealed tightly to preserve its flavor and texture.
  • Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for maximum 2 months, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
  • Reheat refrigerated leftovers in microwave by placing in a microwave-safe dish, covering with a damp paper towel, and heating in 30-second intervals until internal temperature reaches 165°F, stirring between intervals to ensure even warming.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Spicy Black Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms Recipe

Spicy Black Pepper Chicken With Mushrooms Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 20 reviews

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

Description

Hearty black pepper chicken with mushrooms brings robust flavors from Asian cuisine to dinner tables. Spicy protein and earthy mushrooms combine perfectly, delivering a quick and satisfying meal for home cooks seeking bold taste sensations.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

Sauces, Seasonings, and Oils:

  • 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon sugar
  • 0.25 cup (4 tablespoons) chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare a flavor-packed marinade by combining sliced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and freshly ground black pepper. Allow the chicken to absorb the seasonings for 10 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Warm a skillet over medium-high heat with a thin layer of cooking oil. Quickly sauté minced garlic and grated ginger until their aromatic essence fills the kitchen.
  3. Introduce the marinated chicken to the pan, spreading pieces evenly. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure uniform browning and complete cooking.
  4. Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet, sprinkling with a pinch of salt and a touch of sugar. Continue stir-frying for an additional 3 minutes, allowing mushrooms to release their natural moisture.
  5. Pour chicken broth into the pan, creating a light sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes, gently reducing the liquid and allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Finish the dish with a delicate drizzle of sesame oil, which adds a nutty complexity. Scatter freshly chopped green onions across the top for a burst of color and sharp flavor. Serve immediately alongside steamed rice.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken is evenly sliced to guarantee uniform cooking and prevent dry or undercooked pieces.
  • Let chicken marinate at room temperature to enhance flavor absorption and improve meat tenderness.
  • Choose fresh shiitake or button mushrooms for best texture and rich umami flavor profile.
  • Adjust black pepper quantity based on personal spice preference, starting with less and gradually increasing for balanced heat.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 275 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 860 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star