Step-by-step instructions
Prepare the chicken. Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips. In a bowl, mix the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until it’s evenly coated.
Cook the chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, cooking until browned on all sides and cooked through—about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Cook the vegetables. In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion and mushrooms, cooking until they soften—this should take around 5 minutes.
Add the sauce. Stir in the minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and water. Mix well and bring this mixture to a simmer.
Thicken the sauce. Let the sauce cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Add the chicken back. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in with the sauce and vegetables.
Season with black pepper. Taste and add freshly ground black pepper as desired.
Serve. Optionally garnish with green onions, and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Best ways to enjoy it
Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms can be plated in various appetizing ways. For a hearty meal, serve it over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or noodles. You can add some colorful steamed broccoli or snap peas on the side for a nutritious boost. Drizzling additional soy sauce or sprinkling sesame seeds can elevate the presentation too!
How to store
If you find yourself with leftovers—lucky you! This dish stores well. Place the chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just ensure that it’s in a suitable container and label it for easy identification later.
Helper tips for cooking success
- For added crunch, consider tossing in some water chestnuts when sautéing the vegetables.
- If you like spicy food, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick!
- Always let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking before slicing it. This way, you retain more juices and the chicken remains tender.
Creative twists on the classic
Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a delightful seafood twist. If you’re aiming for a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can even add a splash of lime juice for a zesty finish or serve it with pineapple chunks to sweeten the dish.
Your questions answered
- How long does it take to prepare this dish? The total cook time is about 30 minutes, perfect for a busy evening.
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but be sure to fully thaw it before cooking for even results.
- What are some good side dishes? Steamed rice, fried rice, or a crisp salad pair wonderfully with this dish.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend meal, this Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy creating this flavorful dish, and make it your own!
