Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms

Looking for a quick, bold, and satisfying dinner? This Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is the perfect answer. Juicy pieces of chicken and tender mushrooms are coated in a glossy, peppery sauce that’s packed with savory flavor. It comes together in under 30 minutes and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. Minimal prep, maximum flavor — perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

200g (7 oz) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)

500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 small onion, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color)

1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

Salt to taste

Chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, mix chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and a pinch of black pepper. Set aside to marinate while prepping other ingredients.

Sauté the aromatics: Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Add mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender and they release their juices.

Make the sauce: Add oyster sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), and the remaining soy sauce. Sprinkle in the black pepper and stir well to combine.

Thicken the sauce: Pour in the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and mushrooms.

Taste and adjust: Taste the dish and add salt or more pepper if needed.

Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips

Use freshly ground black pepper for the boldest flavor.

You can add bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and crunch.

For a spicier version, add a dash of chili flakes or a sliced red chili.