Craving the savory, sweet, and slightly smoky flavor of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken but want to enjoy it from the comfort of your own home? You’re in luck! This recipe perfectly replicates the taste of the restaurant favorite, and the best part is, it’s surprisingly simple to make. Not only does this dish come together quickly, but it’s also a versatile meal you can serve for dinner, lunch, or meal prep for the week.
In this blog post, you’ll find everything you need to know to create a delicious batch of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, including step-by-step instructions, the best ingredients to use, tips for grilling the perfect chicken, and even side dish recommendations to complete your meal. For those who love experimenting with flavors, we’ll also cover a variety of recipe variations that will allow you to get creative with your cooking. Let’s dive into the secrets behind this classic dish, made right in your kitchen!
What is Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken?
Panda Express is famous for its flavorful Asian-inspired dishes, and their Teriyaki Chicken is no exception. This dish features tender, juicy grilled chicken thighs that are smothered in a rich and sticky teriyaki sauce. The combination of the char-grilled chicken and the sweet, tangy sauce makes it one of the most beloved items on their menu.
What sets Panda Express’s version apart from other teriyaki chicken recipes is its grilling method. While many teriyaki chicken recipes are stir-fried or pan-fried, Panda Express elevates the dish by grilling the chicken. The char marks not only enhance the dish’s visual appeal but also impart a smoky flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.
The good news is, with a few key ingredients and simple techniques, you can recreate that signature flavor right at home. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or simply indulging in a restaurant-quality dish without leaving the house.
Ingredients
To replicate the flavors of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, you will need a few essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mirin (optional but highly recommended)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for added richness)
Optional Garnishes:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Serving Suggestions:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Fried rice
- Stir-fried vegetables
Using fresh ingredients is crucial to getting the best flavor out of your dish. The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of honey creates the perfect balance between sweet and savory.
Related Recipe: Honey Garlic Shrimp – A Simple, Flavor-Packed Delight – Another recipe that balances sweet and savory flavors, perfect for those who enjoy Asian-inspired dishes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create your own Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken at home:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
For the best flavor and texture, marinating the chicken thighs is an essential step. While this step is optional, we highly recommend it as it helps tenderize the meat and enhances the flavor.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Add the chicken thighs to a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken.
- Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
If you’re short on time, a quick 30-minute marinade will still work wonders, but the longer the chicken sits, the more flavorful it becomes.
Related Recipe: Ultimate Chicken Brine Recipe – Juicy Flavorful Chicken Every Time – Learn how to brine chicken for extra moisture and tenderness if you’re skipping the marinade.
Step 2: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
While your chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the teriyaki sauce. This homemade sauce is rich, glossy, and far superior to anything you can buy at the store.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Once the sauce starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- To achieve the desired consistency, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the saucepan. Stir constantly as the sauce thickens, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
- For a richer flavor, stir in sesame oil just before removing the sauce from the heat.
If you like your teriyaki sauce a little sweeter, you can add an extra tablespoon of honey or brown sugar. Alternatively, for those who prefer a tangier sauce, increase the rice vinegar.
Related Recipe: Creamy Garlic Sauce – The Ultimate Guide to Perfecting Flavor and Texture – Master the art of creating perfectly balanced sauces to enhance your dishes.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
The key to achieving the smoky, grilled flavor of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken is to cook the chicken thighs on a grill. This method replicates the charred exterior and tender interior that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). Lightly brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Look for those beautiful grill marks and slight charring that adds flavor.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
If you don’t have access to a grill, a cast-iron grill pan or a standard skillet will work. Just make sure the pan is hot enough to sear the chicken properly, and cook over medium-high heat to mimic the grilling process.
Related Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini – The Ultimate Comfort Food Fusion – Explore more grilling techniques in this comfort food fusion dish.
Step 4: Slice and Glaze the Chicken
Once the chicken has rested, it’s time to slice and glaze it with the delicious teriyaki sauce you prepared earlier.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the grilled chicken thighs into thin strips.
- Brush the chicken generously with the teriyaki sauce, making sure each piece is coated evenly.
- If you like, you can return the sliced chicken to the grill or pan for an additional 1-2 minutes per side to caramelize the sauce.
This final grilling step adds a layer of richness to the chicken and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Related Recipe: Ultimate Rotisserie Chicken Recipes – Easy, Delicious Meals – Discover how to make use of extra chicken in creative ways.
Step 5: Serve
Now that your chicken is perfectly cooked and glazed, it’s time to serve. Teriyaki chicken is best enjoyed over steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables, allowing the sweet and savory sauce to meld with the other elements on the plate.
- Spoon the teriyaki chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation.
- Pair with stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas to create a balanced and nutritious meal.
Related Recipe: Easy Homemade Garlic Bread – Consider pairing your chicken with homemade garlic bread for a delicious and easy side.
Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken
- Use Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and remain juicy even when grilled. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, just be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.
- Don’t Skip the Marination: Marinating the chicken adds a ton of flavor and keeps the meat tender. While a 30-minute marinade works in a pinch, letting the chicken marinate for a few hours or overnight will give the best results.
- Grilling Tips: Preheat your grill to ensure that it’s hot enough to sear the chicken. The heat helps create the beautiful charred grill marks that add smoky flavor to the dish.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter teriyaki sauce, simply increase the amount of honey or brown sugar. If you like it more tangy, add a bit more rice vinegar.
- Make Extra Sauce: Teriyaki sauce is incredibly versatile. Consider doubling the recipe so you have extra for future meals. It works great as a glaze for salmon, stir-fried vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for dumplings.
Related Recipe: Spicy Prawn Pasta – A Fiery Twist on an Italian Classic – For those who love a bit of spice, try this pasta recipe that packs a punch.
Variations and Add-Ins
1. Spicy Teriyaki Chicken
If you like a bit of heat with your teriyaki, spice things up by adding Sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. This gives the sauce a subtle kick that complements the sweetness.
Related Recipe: The Ultimate Spicy Rigatoni Recipe – Creamy and Fiery – Explore more ways to add heat to your favorite comfort foods.
2. Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
For a complete and balanced meal, turn this dish into a teriyaki chicken bowl. Serve the chicken over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa, and add a variety of vegetables such as sautéed spinach, grilled zucchini, or roasted carrots.
Related Recipe: Teriyaki Bowl Recipe – Easy, Delicious, and Customizable – Check out this customizable teriyaki bowl recipe for more inspiration.
3. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Turn your grilled teriyaki chicken into a fun appetizer by making teriyaki chicken skewers. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, thread them onto skewers, and grill as directed. Brush the skewers with teriyaki sauce before serving.
This makes a great finger food for parties and gatherings!
Side Dishes to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken
If you’re looking to round out your meal, here are some side dishes that pair perfectly with Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken:
1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
Nothing complements teriyaki chicken quite like steamed rice. The neutral flavor of jasmine rice perfectly balances the sweet and savory notes of the teriyaki sauce.
Related Recipe: Fried Rice Recipe – Restaurant-Quality at Home – For a richer, more flavorful alternative, try this fried rice recipe.
2. Asian Slaw
For a crunchy and refreshing side, serve your chicken with a crisp Asian slaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing. This light salad cuts through the richness of the chicken and sauce.
Related Recipe: Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe – A Delicious Fusion of Flavors – Try another light, refreshing salad that will pair perfectly with your teriyaki chicken.
3. Grilled Vegetables
Add some charred goodness to your meal by serving your teriyaki chicken with grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini. The smoky flavors from the grill perfectly complement the teriyaki glaze.
4. Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls
For a delicious side, serve egg rolls or spring rolls alongside your teriyaki chicken. The crispy exterior of the rolls adds a textural contrast, while the fresh veggies inside pair well with the bold flavors of the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut of meat. Just make sure to avoid overcooking them, as they can dry out more quickly than thighs.
Related Recipe: Chicken Quesadilla Recipe – A Flavor-Packed Mexican Delight – If you’re a fan of chicken breast recipes, you’ll love this quesadilla variation.
Q: Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply reheat it before serving.
Q: What is mirin, and do I need it for the sauce?
A: Mirin is a sweet rice wine commonly used in Japanese cooking. It adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce. While it’s optional, we highly recommend using it for the most authentic flavor. You can substitute mirin with a little extra rice vinegar and sugar if you don’t have any on hand.
Conclusion
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful, versatile dish that you can easily recreate at home. Whether you’re grilling it for a family dinner or serving it as part of a rice bowl, this recipe is sure to impress. From the smoky grilled chicken to the sweet, sticky teriyaki sauce, every bite is a perfect balance of flavors.
Don’t forget to explore the Ultimate Guide to Rotisserie Chicken for more delicious chicken recipes that you can make at home.