Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms
Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a savoury, restaurant-style stir-fry packed with juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, crisp vegetables, and a rich peppery sauce. This quick and flavourful dish combines bold Asian-inspired flavours with tender chicken and fresh vegetables, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Served over steamed rice or noodles, it delivers comforting flavour with minimal preparation.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups Mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- ¼ cup water
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into small bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine oyster sauce, soy sauce, black pepper, cornflour, salt, and water. Stir until smooth.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Stir in onions and garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms and green bell pepper. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly but remain crisp.
- Pour the prepared sauce into the pan and stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Drizzle sesame oil over the dish and stir gently.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Description
This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms recipe is a delicious homemade alternative to takeout meals. Tender chicken pieces absorb the rich umami flavour from soy sauce and oyster sauce, while black pepper adds warmth and spice. Mushrooms bring a deep earthy taste, and bell peppers add freshness and colour. The sauce is silky, savoury, and lightly peppery, making every bite satisfying and comforting.
Recipe Notes
- Freshly ground black pepper gives the best flavour.
- Cornflour helps thicken the sauce and creates a glossy texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while cooking the chicken to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust salt carefully since soy sauce already contains sodium.
Tips
- Add chilli flakes or sliced chillies for extra heat.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- Serve with jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles.
- Add broccoli or snap peas for more vegetables and texture.
Servings
Serves 4 people.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
Health Benefits
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein that supports muscle growth and repair. Mushrooms provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immunity and overall health. Bell peppers contain vitamin C and antioxidants, while garlic may help support heart health and immune function. Cooking at home also allows better control over sodium, oil, and ingredients compared to restaurant takeout meals.
Questions & Answers
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free oyster sauce alternatives.
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely. Broccoli, carrots, snap peas, or zucchini work very well.
How spicy is this dish?
It has mild heat from black pepper, but you can add more pepper or chillies for extra spice.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
What mushrooms work best?
Button mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, or shiitake mushrooms are excellent choices.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months and reheat thoroughly before serving.