Copycat Panda Express Black Pepper Chicken
Panda Express Black Pepper Chicken is a bold, peppery stir-fry with tender chicken, celery, and onion. This copycat recipe recreates that savory, freshly-peppered flavor at home in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, peppery, and savory
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Better than takeout
- Simple ingredients
Copycat Panda Express Black Pepper Chicken
A copycat of Panda Express Black Pepper Chicken - tender chicken stir-fried with celery and onion in a peppery, savory black pepper sauce.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toss the chicken with the cornstarch. Whisk the sauce ingredients together.
- Heat the oil in a wok over high heat and stir-fry the chicken until browned, then remove.
- Add the celery and onion and stir-fry 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Return the chicken, pour in the sauce, and toss 1-2 minutes until glossy.
- Serve hot over rice.
Notes
Freshly cracked black pepper is essential for the bold flavor. Cut the celery and onion into large pieces like the restaurant does.
Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for bold flavor
- Cut the celery and onion into large chunks
- Coat the chicken in cornstarch for tenderness
- Cook over high heat for wok flavor
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate up to 4 days. Reheat in a hot skillet to keep the vegetables crisp.
Variations to Try
- Add more pepper for extra heat
- Use chicken breast for a leaner dish
- Add sliced bell pepper for color
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes it black pepper chicken?
A generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper in the savory soy-based sauce gives it a bold, peppery kick.
What vegetables are in it?
Celery and onion, cut into large chunks.
Is it spicy?
It is peppery rather than chili-hot. Adjust the black pepper to taste.
