Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms – A Bold, Savory Stir-Fry Favorite

Few dishes strike the perfect balance between comfort and bold flavor like Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms. This classic-inspired stir-fry combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a deeply savory black pepper sauce that’s rich, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like restaurant takeout—but comes together quickly in your own kitchen.

Black pepper is the star of this dish, delivering warmth and depth rather than overwhelming heat. When toasted lightly in oil and combined with soy sauce and oyster sauce, it creates a glossy coating that clings beautifully to the chicken and mushrooms. The mushrooms soak up the sauce like sponges, adding umami richness that makes every bite feel indulgent without being heavy.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights because it cooks fast, uses simple ingredients, and pairs effortlessly with rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. It’s also endlessly adaptable—swap in different mushrooms, add vegetables, or adjust the pepper level to suit your taste.

Why Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms Works So Well

The secret to this dish lies in contrast and technique. Thinly sliced chicken cooks quickly and stays juicy, while mushrooms bring texture and depth. A quick marinade ensures the chicken is seasoned all the way through, and a cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce just enough to create that signature glossy finish.

Unlike overly sweet stir-fries, Black Pepper Chicken leans savory and aromatic. It’s bold without being spicy, making it approachable for a wide range of palates. The result is a dish that feels hearty, flavorful, and deeply comforting.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Stir-Fry

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cups mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Black Pepper Sauce

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1½ tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix well and set aside for 10 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken broth, sugar, black pepper, and cornstarch. Set aside.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add marinated chicken and stir-fry until just cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
5. Add remaining oil to the skillet and sauté mushrooms until browned and tender.
6. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Return chicken to the pan and pour in the black pepper sauce.
8. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
9. Remove from heat and garnish with green onions if desired.

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Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken

• Slice chicken thinly: This ensures fast cooking and tender texture.
• Use freshly ground black pepper: Pre-ground pepper won’t deliver the same aroma or punch.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
• Balance the sauce: Taste and adjust salt or pepper before serving.

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Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or onions for extra color and crunch.
• Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or sautéed cabbage.
• Mushroom Lovers: Use shiitake or portobello mushrooms for deeper umami flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up the sauce. It also pairs beautifully with garlic noodles or simple stir-fried vegetables. For meal prep, store leftovers in airtight containers for up to three days.

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Cultural Context

Black pepper–based stir-fries are popular in many Asian-inspired cuisines, particularly Chinese-American cooking, where bold seasoning and quick cooking methods shine. This dish reflects that tradition with accessible ingredients and a home-cook-friendly approach.