This Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a tasty dish that’s quick to make. Juicy chicken meets savory mushrooms, all coated in a zesty black pepper sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using chicken breasts for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken thighs instead; they are juicier and add great flavor.
Mushrooms: I used button mushrooms, but cremini mushrooms are a delicious upgrade with extra flavor. If you want to skip mushrooms entirely, zucchini or bell peppers can be a great substitute!
Soy Sauce: This adds a salty umami element. If you’re looking for a low-sodium version, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. Tamari works too if you’re gluten-free!
Oyster Sauce: This adds richness, but you can use hoisin sauce as a substitute. If you want a vegetarian option, you can use mushroom soy sauce or just skip it entirely.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives the best flavor here. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to use less or try white pepper as a milder alternative.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Tender Chicken?
Getting your chicken just right is key for this dish. Here are some tips to ensure it stays juicy and tender:
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches to allow the chicken to brown properly.
- Cook the chicken over medium-high heat. This helps in getting a nice sear while keeping it tender inside.
- Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken, as this locks in moisture.
Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In just 25 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious meal that’s both easy and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding anything else to get that nice sear on the chicken!
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them for about 2 minutes, or until they become fragrant and slightly translucent. This will add a lovely base flavor for your dish!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. You want them juicy and delicious!
4. Add the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring gently, until the mushrooms soften and release their juices. This will make your dish extra savory!
5. Season with Black Pepper:
Sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper over the chicken and mushrooms, then stir well to combine everything. The pepper will give the dish a nice kick!
6. Mix in the Sauces:
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar, mixing well to coat the chicken and mushrooms evenly.
7. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will help flavor everything beautifully!
8. Thicken the Sauce (If Desired):
If you’d like a thicker sauce, slowly add the cornstarch slurry while stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
9. Taste and Season:
Taste your dish and add a pinch of salt if needed. Adjust the flavors to your liking!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if you like. Serve your Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Enjoy your flavorful and comforting Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms!
FAQ for Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can easily swap chicken for beef, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times slightly as each protein cooks differently. For instance, beef may need a little more time, while tofu should be cooked until golden brown for the best texture.
What if I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce for a similar sweetness, or simply use more soy sauce if you prefer a lighter flavor. If you want to keep it vegetarian, mushroom soy sauce would be a great choice, too!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you reheat, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for more color and nutrition. Just add them when you add the mushrooms so they have time to cook through but remain crisp.
