Black Pepper Chicken Panda Express: 5 easy steps
This gluten-free take on the beloved black pepper chicken Panda Express is a quick and easy dish that delivers bold flavors without compromising on health. Marinated chicken is cooked in a savory, spicy sauce made with gluten-free ingredients like tamari and cornstarch. Perfect for anyone seeking a flavorful, gluten-free alternative to a restaurant favorite.
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok a heavy-bottomed non-stick or cast-iron pan works best
- Mixing bowls and a whisk
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A zip-top bag ideal for marinating chicken evenly
- Rice cooker (Optional) for gluten-free rice or quinoa as a side
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken thighs (or breasts) Cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Gluten-free soy sauce or tamari For marinade
- 1 teaspoon Freshly cracked black pepper For marinade
- 1 teaspoon Minced garlic For marinade
- 1 tablespoon Gluten-free cornstarch For marinade
- 2 tablespoons Gluten-free soy sauce or tamari For sauce
- 1 tablespoon Gluten-free chicken broth Certified gluten-free
- 1/2 cup Water For sauce
- 1 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper For sauce
- 2 teaspoons Minced garlic For sauce
- 1 tablespoon Gluten-free cornstarch Dissolved in 1 tablespoon water for slurry
- pinck Sugar Optional: To balance the savory tones
- 2 tablespoons High smoke-point oil avocado or grapeseed For searing
- Freshly ground black pepper For final seasoning
Instructions
1- Marinate the Chicken:
- o In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the marinade ingredients.o Stir gently to ensure every piece is evenly coated.o Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This is key to infuse the black pepper chicken panda express flavors deeply into the meat.
2- Prepare the Sauce:
- o In a separate bowl, mix the gluten-free soy sauce, chicken broth, water, minced garlic, and ground black pepper.o Stir in the cornstarch slurry gradually. Set the sauce aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken.
3- Sear the Chicken:
- o Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.o Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan work in batches if necessary.o Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until a light, golden crust forms. The high heat not only browns the chicken but also locks in the flavor.
4- Simmer to Perfection:
- o After searing, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the prepared sauce.o Stir gently to coat all the chicken pieces evenly.o Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked. This simmering step helps replicate that familiar black pepper chicken panda express experience with a gluten-free twist.
5- Final Touches:
- o Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed—add a little more black pepper if you desire an extra kick.o For a bit of extra crunch, consider sprinkling freshly chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top before serving.
