Imagine bringing the irresistible allure of Panda Express right into your own kitchen with this teriyaki chicken recipe. Whether you’re a beginner eager to try your hand at recreating takeout favorites or a seasoned cook seeking to perfect a beloved dish, this recipe promises a delectable experience. The succulent chicken, glazed with a rich, savory teriyaki sauce, offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

The magic lies in the sauce—infused with soy, ginger, and a hint of garlic—which elevates the dish to new heights. As the chicken sizzles and caramelizes, your kitchen will be filled with an aroma that’s simply irresistible. With easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll feel confident in crafting this restaurant-quality meal at home, delighting family and friends with every juicy, flavorful bite.

About This panda express teriyaki chicken Recipe

Restaurant-quality at home: This recipe perfectly captures the savory and sweet flavors you love from Panda Express, bringing your favorite takeout dish right to your own kitchen.
Quick and easy preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Healthier choice: By making this dish at home, you control the ingredients, allowing for a healthier, less oily version without sacrificing flavor.
Perfectly balanced flavor: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a rich and satisfying teriyaki glaze that complements the juicy chicken beautifully.
Versatile dish: Enjoy it as a main course with steamed rice or as part of a larger Asian-inspired meal; it’s sure to be a hit!
Family-friendly: This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-inspired flavor: Enjoy the authentic taste of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken right from your own kitchen with this spot-on copycat recipe.
Quick and easy preparation: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet time-efficient.
Simple ingredients: With common pantry staples and minimal ingredients, you won’t need to make a special trip to the grocery store.
Healthy homemade option: By making this dish at home, you can control the ingredients, offering a healthier alternative to takeout.
Perfectly balanced flavors: The savory teriyaki glaze pairs beautifully with juicy chicken, creating a dish that’s both sweet and savory.
Versatile meal: Serve it over rice, with noodles, or alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp honey
(or substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor)
1 tbsp mirin
(a sweet rice wine, can substitute with rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar)
2 tsp minced garlic
(about 2 cloves)
1 tsp minced ginger
(freshly grated for best flavor)
1/2 tsp sesame oil
(adds a nutty aroma)
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
(creates a slurry for thickening sauce)
1/4 cup sliced green onions
(for garnish, optional)
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
(for garnish, optional)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Cutting Board: Use this for slicing chicken and vegetables. A sturdy surface will help ensure safe and efficient cutting.
Chef’s Knife: Essential for slicing and dicing chicken breasts and any other ingredients. A sharp knife makes prep quicker and safer.
Mixing Bowl: Needed for combining and marinating the chicken with teriyaki sauce. A medium-sized bowl should suffice.
Whisk: Useful for mixing the teriyaki sauce ingredients thoroughly. A fork can be used as an alternative if a whisk is unavailable.
Large Skillet or Frying Pan: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly. If you do not have a skillet, a sauté pan can also work.
Tongs: Helpful for turning the chicken pieces while cooking, ensuring they are evenly coated and cooked on all sides.
Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurement of sauce ingredients is crucial for achieving the desired flavor balance.
Measuring Cups: Use these for liquid ingredients to ensure the sauce has the right consistency and flavor profile.

Preparation Steps

Marinate the chicken thighs by combining soy sauce, sugar, and ginger in a bowl. Let them sit covered in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to absorb flavors.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Ensure the grill is hot before placing the chicken to achieve proper searing.
Grill the marinated chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice char. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the teriyaki sauce by heating soy sauce, sugar, ginger, and garlic in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Thicken the sauce by adding a cornstarch slurry (mix of cornstarch and water) into the saucepan. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Brush the grilled chicken with the prepared teriyaki sauce during the last 2 minutes of grilling for a sticky glaze.
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into strips and serve with additional sauce drizzled on top.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed rice: The savory and slightly sweet flavors of the teriyaki chicken pair perfectly with plain steamed rice, which absorbs the sauce well and balances the dish. This classic combination is quick to prepare and satisfying.
Accompany with stir-fried vegetables: Add a vibrant mix of stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas on the side. The freshness and crunch of the vegetables complement the tender chicken and rich sauce.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions: Sprinkling sesame seeds and scallions over the teriyaki chicken adds a pop of color and a subtle nutty flavor, enhancing both the presentation and taste.
Pair with a light cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the teriyaki chicken, making it a perfect side for a light lunch or dinner.
Serve with jasmine tea: Enjoy the teriyaki chicken with a cup of jasmine tea. The floral notes of the tea complement the savory flavors of the dish and provide a soothing beverage choice.
Make a teriyaki chicken wrap: For a casual meal, wrap the teriyaki chicken and some fresh lettuce in a soft tortilla, creating a delicious handheld option that’s perfect for picnics or on-the-go lunches.

These serving suggestions are designed to enhance your Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken experience, offering diverse options for different occasions. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or a casual get-together, these ideas will help you enjoy the dish to its fullest potential.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Marinate Overnight for Maximum Flavor: If time allows, let the chicken marinate in the teriyaki sauce mix overnight in the refrigerator. This extended marinating period allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
Use the Right Cut of Chicken: Opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs are more forgiving and remain tender and juicy even if slightly overcooked, while also offering a richer flavor profile that complements the teriyaki sauce.
Pan-Sear for a Crispy Finish: After cooking the chicken in the sauce, quickly pan-sear it in a hot, lightly oiled skillet for a minute on each side. This gives the chicken a crispy, caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
Make-Ahead Sauce for Convenience: Prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows you to quickly assemble the dish on busy weeknights.
Add a Smoky Twist: For an extra depth of flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-frying it. The slight char from the grill enhances the overall taste and adds a subtle smoky element to your dish.
Thicken Sauce with Cornstarch Slurry: If the teriyaki sauce is too thin, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water. Stir this into the sauce and simmer until thickened to achieve the perfect consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken: This happens when the chicken is left on high heat for too long, resulting in dry and tough meat. To avoid this, cook the chicken over medium heat and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove it from the heat as soon as it hits the right temperature.
Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: The quality of soy sauce can significantly affect the flavor of the teriyaki glaze. Opt for a good quality, naturally brewed soy sauce for a richer and more authentic taste. Avoid low-sodium varieties that might alter the intended flavor profile.
Skipping the Marinade: Marinades are crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor. Some people skip this step due to time constraints, but even a short marinating time can make a big difference. Aim to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight if possible for deeper flavor.
Not Reducing the Sauce Properly: If the sauce is not reduced enough, it will be too thin and won’t coat the chicken well. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens and becomes glossy. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even reduction.
Using Non-Stick Pans: While convenient, non-stick pans don’t allow for the best browning of the chicken. Use a stainless steel or cast iron skillet to achieve a better sear, which adds flavor and texture to the dish.

By keeping these common pitfalls in mind, you’ll be well on your way to cooking delicious Panda Express-style teriyaki chicken at home. Remember, the key to perfecting this dish lies in careful attention to ingredient quality, cooking technique, and timing. Happy cooking!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Allow the teriyaki chicken to cool at room temperature for no more than 2 hours before storing.
Transfer the cooled chicken to an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor during storage.
Refrigerate the chicken promptly and consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness and safety.
Tip: Label the container with the storage date to keep track of freshness.
For longer storage, consider freezing the teriyaki chicken. Place portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Frozen teriyaki chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To reheat, use a stovetop method: place the chicken in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Alternatively, microwave the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until thoroughly warmed.
Warning: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating to prevent foodborne illness.
Avoid reheating multiple times, as this can compromise the texture and safety of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different cut of chicken instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may be less juicy. Consider pounding them to even thickness for more consistent cooking.

Q: What can I substitute for soy sauce if I want a gluten-free option?

Use tamari as a gluten-free substitute for soy sauce; it will provide a similar flavor without the gluten.

Q: How do I prevent the teriyaki sauce from becoming too thick?

Monitor the sauce closely as it simmers and add a bit of water if it starts to thicken too much before the chicken is done cooking.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Q: What is a good way to add more vegetables to this dish?

Add steamed broccoli or sautéed bell peppers and onions to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q: How can I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill or pan?

Ensure the grill or pan is well-oiled and preheated before adding the chicken to prevent sticking.

Final Thoughts

This Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken recipe captures the essence of the beloved restaurant favorite with its rich, savory glaze and tender, juicy chicken. The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a standout dish that’s sure to excite your taste buds and elevate any meal. It’s a delightful way to bring a taste of Panda Express right into your home.

Feel free to add your personal touch by experimenting with different vegetables or adjusting the sauce’s sweetness to suit your taste. The beauty of home cooking is in making a recipe your own, and this dish offers a perfect canvas for creativity. Don’t hesitate to mix things up and tailor it to your preferences.

We warmly invite you to try this recipe and experience the joy of making restaurant-quality teriyaki chicken in your own kitchen. It’s a rewarding culinary adventure that promises delicious results and a sense of accomplishment. Happy cooking!

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe