Description
This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a quick and savory stir-fry featuring tender chicken pieces marinated with freshly cracked black pepper, sautéed mushrooms, and a flavorful soy-oyster sauce blend. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it combines the robust spice of black pepper with the umami richness of mushrooms for a deliciously balanced meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (divided)
- 2 tbsp oil (avocado or sesame)
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (baby bella or cremini preferred)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and freshly cracked black pepper. Let this mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate and to help tenderize the chicken.
- Sear Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken until it is golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Cook Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them until they become browned and tender, releasing their natural umami flavor.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic with the mushrooms and cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt, enhancing the overall aroma.
- Combine & Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, and an additional sprinkle of black pepper to taste. Stir everything to combine well and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
- Serve: Spoon the black pepper chicken and mushroom mixture over steamed rice or noodles. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs for added color and freshness before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of black pepper to your preferred spice level.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for juicier meat.
- Use sesame oil instead of avocado oil for a nuttier flavor.
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or your choice of noodles.
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions make a great garnish.
