Easy Black Pepper Chicken: Panda Express Copycat (Print Version)
Make Panda Express Black Pepper Chicken at home! This easy copycat recipe features tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a savory black pepper sauce.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 12 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Chinese
Dietary: Dairy-Free
# Ingredients:
→ The Succulent Chicken Base
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
2 tbsp cornstarch
03 -
1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
04 -
1 tbsp vegetable oil
→ Vibrant Veggies & Aromatic Foundation
05 -
1 large yellow onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
06 -
1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
07 -
1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
08 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
09 -
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
10 -
1 tbsp vegetable oil
11 -
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
→ The Bold Black Pepper Glaze
12 -
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
13 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
14 -
2 tbsp oyster sauce
15 -
2 tbsp granulated sugar
16 -
2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
17 -
1 tbsp cornstarch
18 -
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
# Instructions:
01 -
In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs with 2 tbsp cornstarch and 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce. Toss to coat the chicken pieces evenly. This initial step ensures succulent chicken for your Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe (Panda Express Inspired).
02 -
In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 2 tbsp oyster sauce, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and 1 tsp toasted sesame oil until smooth. Set the glaze aside.
03 -
Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
04 -
Add 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the same skillet. Sauté 1 large yellow onion, 1 large green bell pepper, and 1 large red bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender-crisp. Stir in 4 cloves minced garlic and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 -
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Give the prepared black pepper glaze a quick whisk, then pour it over the chicken and vegetables. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything beautifully for your Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe (Panda Express Inspired).
06 -
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish generously with 2 sliced green onions. Serve your delicious Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe (Panda Express Inspired) immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra kick, ensure you use freshly ground black pepper, and don't be shy with it! A pinch of red pepper flakes can also be added to the sauce.
02 -
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or lo mein noodles. For added nutrition, consider serving with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas.
03 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
04 -
Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breast, adjusting cooking time slightly. Other quick-cooking vegetables like mushrooms or carrots also work well.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or wok
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Sharp knife
04 -
Measuring cups and spoons
05 -
Small bowl
06 -
Large bowl
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 451 kcal
Total Fat: 23 g
Total Carbohydrate: 29 g
Protein: 49 g