Ingredients
- Chicken: 500 grams (boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Mushrooms: 200 grams (button or cremini mushrooms, sliced)
- Black Pepper: 1-2 teaspoons (freshly ground for maximum flavor)
- Garlic: 3 cloves (minced)
- Onion: 1 medium (sliced)
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Oyster Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (mixed with 2 tablespoons of water for a slurry)
- Chicken Stock: 1/2 cup
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: To taste
- Green Onions: For garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and half of the black pepper. Set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, and sauté until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until it turns golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Cook the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and start to brown.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet with the mushrooms. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken stock. Stir to combine.
- Thicken the Sauce: Pour in the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens. Adjust the seasoning with more black pepper and salt if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Success
- Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper: The bold flavor of freshly ground black pepper is key to this dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken and mushrooms in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more or less black pepper to suit your taste.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or paneer and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
- Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is a quick and easy recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavors at home. The combination of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and the spicy kick of black pepper creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
For more inspiration, you can explore recipes here and here. Let me know if you’d like to try a specific variation or need pairing suggestions! 😊