Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Created on July 21st, 2025 at 03:41 pm

Juicy Chicken in a Bold, Peppery Sauce

✨ Better than takeout! This Panda Express–inspired black pepper chicken is quick, simple, and bursting with bold flavor—all in just 25 minutes.

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⏱️ Time Breakdown:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

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📝 Ingredients:

Chicken:

• 1.1 lbs (500 g) skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tbsp peanut oil
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Veggies & Aromatics:

• 2 medium onions, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes
• ½ tsp minced garlic
• ½ tsp minced ginger
• 1 fresh chili (green or red), chopped

Black Pepper Sauce:

• ¾ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• ½ tsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water or chicken broth

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Whisk the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all sauce ingredients until smooth—no lumps! Set aside.

2. Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, toss chicken with 1 tablespoon of the prepared sauce, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit while prepping the vegetables.

3. Brown the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a hot frying pan. Add chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook until golden on one side. Flip and cook until browned and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Veggies

Add 1 tablespoon oil to the same pan. Sauté garlic, ginger, and chili for 30 seconds 🌶️. Toss in onion and bell pepper. Stir-fry on high until crisp-tender.

5. Combine & Finish

Reduce heat to low. Give the sauce a quick stir (cornstarch settles!), pour into the pan, and let it simmer for 30 seconds. Add chicken back in and toss to coat.

6. Serve

Turn off the heat, add a final sprinkle of black pepper, stir, and serve hot 🍽️.

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💡 Pro Tips:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave.
• Pepper Power: Use freshly cracked black pepper for a stronger flavor punch.
• Prep Ahead: Chop veggies and make the sauce in advance for an even faster weeknight dinner.
• Meal Pairing: Serve over steamed rice or toss with noodles for a hearty meal.

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📊 Nutrition Info (Per Serving):

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 plate	420	30g	20g	22g	3g	4g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.