
This classic Asian stir-fry combines tender chicken with savory mushrooms, enhanced by freshly ground black pepper for a rich depth of flavor. Perfected through years of home cooking, it's become a reliable weeknight favorite that delivers restaurant-quality taste in minimal time.
The aroma of freshly ground black pepper is key to this dish's appeal. When the peppercorns hit the hot wok, they release an enticing fragrance that fills the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients Guide
- Chicken Breasts (2): Choose free-range for best flavor. Slice thinly across the grain
- Fresh Mushrooms (250g): Mix shiitake and button mushrooms for complex flavors. Clean with a brush instead of washing
- Black Peppercorns: Grind just before cooking for maximum aroma
- Oyster Sauce (15ml): Select premium brands for authentic taste
- Soy Sauce (15ml): Use naturally brewed for deeper flavor
Cooking Method
- 1. Marinate the Chicken
- Combine sliced chicken with cornstarch, salt and half the freshly ground pepper. Gently massage to coat evenly. The cornstarch tenderizes the meat and thickens the sauce.
- 2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat wok until smoking. Sear chicken in small batches until golden but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside. Avoid overcrowding for proper searing.
- 3. Cook the Vegetables
- Sauté onions and bell peppers until slightly caramelized. Add mushrooms and garlic, allowing mushrooms to release moisture before browning.
- 4. Final Assembly
- Return chicken to wok. Add combined sauce ingredients (soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar). Simmer briefly to meld flavors. Finish with fresh ground pepper.
Traditional Asian cooking emphasizes thorough ingredient preparation before starting to cook. This mise en place approach ensures smooth cooking.
Presentation
Serve immediately topped with sliced green onions. Steamed white rice makes the perfect accompaniment to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Storage Tips
Keeps for 2 days refrigerated. Reheat in a pan rather than microwave to maintain textures.
Pairing Suggestions
Japanese green tea or dry Riesling pairs well, balancing the peppery notes.
This dish embodies modern Asian cooking - quick yet flavorful, simple yet refined. It demonstrates how fast cooking can still deliver excellent results when proper technique meets quality ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap in other types of mushrooms?
- Absolutely! Use any fresh mushrooms, like oyster mushrooms or cremini, as they work great.
- → How can I make this dish less spicy?
- Cut back on the black pepper and add it a little at a time to suit your taste.
- → Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?
- For a vegetarian-friendly option, try mushroom sauce or simply add extra soy sauce.
- → Does this meal freeze well?
- Yes, though the veggies might lose a bit of crunch after thawing.
- → Can I prep the ingredients in advance?
- Definitely! Slice up the chicken and veggies the night before. Store them separately in the fridge.