Panda Express Black Pepper Chicken Recipe (Print Version)
Recreate Panda Express Black Pepper Chicken at home! This easy stir-fry 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 American
Dietary: Dairy-Free
# Ingredients:
→ Umami Black Pepper Glaze
01 -
1/4 cup soy sauce
02 -
2 tbsp oyster sauce
03 -
1 tbsp brown sugar, packed
04 -
1 tbsp rice vinegar
05 -
1/4 cup water or chicken broth
06 -
1 tbsp cornstarch
07 -
1 1/2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
08 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
09 -
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
→ Aromatic Veggie Medley
10 -
1/2 medium yellow onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
11 -
1 medium green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
12 -
2 stalks celery, sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch pieces
# Instructions:
01 -
Combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp packed brown sugar, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1/4 cup water or chicken broth, 1 tbsp cornstarch, 1 1/2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tsp grated fresh ginger in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth for your Easy Black Pepper Chicken (Panda Express Style) glaze.
02 -
Prepare your "Aromatic Veggie Medley." Cut 1/2 medium yellow onion and 1 medium green bell pepper into 1-inch pieces. Slice 2 stalks celery diagonally into 1/2-inch pieces. This fresh medley adds essential texture and flavor to your Easy Black Pepper Chicken (Panda Express Style).
03 -
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the prepared 1/2 medium yellow onion, 1 medium green bell pepper, and 2 stalks celery. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside, reserving the pan for the next step.
04 -
Return the pan to medium heat. Pour in the prepared "Umami Black Pepper Glaze." Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, about 1-2 minutes. This rich glaze is the heart of your Easy Black Pepper Chicken (Panda Express Style).
05 -
Add the sautéed 1/2 medium yellow onion, 1 medium green bell pepper, and 2 stalks celery back into the pan with the thickened glaze. If you are adding cooked chicken, toss it in now to coat evenly. Ensure all components are well combined for a perfect Easy Black Pepper Chicken (Panda Express Style).
06 -
Serve your delicious Easy Black Pepper Chicken (Panda Express Style) hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with extra freshly ground black pepper if desired. Enjoy this quick and flavorful meal that brings the taste of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen!
# Notes:
01 -
For a complete Easy Black Pepper Chicken, pan-fry or air-fry 1.5 lbs of bite-sized chicken thighs or breast until golden and cooked through before adding to the sauce.
02 -
Adjust the 1 1/2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper to your preference. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
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.
04 -
Feel free to customize your 'Aromatic Veggie Medley' with other quick-cooking vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large wok or large skillet
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups and spoons
05 -
Small mixing bowls
06 -
Whisk
07 -
Spatula or stir-fry tool
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 494 kcal
Total Fat: 31 g
Total Carbohydrate: 18 g
Protein: 35 g