Panda Express is loved for its tasty Chinese-American meals, and their Teriyaki Chicken is a standout. With its sweet and salty sauce on juicy chicken thighs, you can now make your own version at home with this easy recipe. You won’t miss the flavors Panda Express offers, and you can adjust the recipe to fit your diet or taste preferences.
Key Takeaways
- Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe can be made in under 30 minutes.
- Chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and flavor, with an option to use chicken breast.
- One serving of the Teriyaki Chicken contains about 321 calories, 12g of carbohydrates, 36g of protein, and 14g of fat.
- The recipe offers versatility in cooking methods, including slow cooking, grilling, and baking.
- Tips for enhancing flavor include adjusting brown sugar, marinating the chicken, and avoiding overcooking.
Recreate the Beloved Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken
This copycat recipe is perfect for anyone who craves a mix of savory and sweet. It uses simple ingredients and has easy steps to follow, making it a fun and tasty project.
Ingredients to Make Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Soy sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground ginger | 1 teaspoon |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and Pepper | to taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
First, remove any extra fat from the chicken thighs. Then, dry them off with paper towels. This step helps the flavors stick better. Cut the chicken into small, 1-inch pieces.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet with a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook the chicken pieces until they’re golden brown. The chicken cooks fully at around 8-10 minutes. You can also bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for 30 minutes.
Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, water, ground ginger, and cornstarch. Make sure the cornstarch is dissolved well to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Combine and Simmer
After the chicken is cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce into the pan. Let it simmer while stirring. After 2-3 minutes, the sauce will thicken and cover the chicken.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve this Chicken Teriyaki while it’s hot. You can top it with sesame seeds and green onions if you like. It goes well with rice or stir-fried veggies, making a full and tasty meal.
Expert Tips for Best Results
Sauce Consistency Adjustments
For a thicker, syrupy sauce, add 1 teaspoon more of cornstarch. For a thinner, pourable sauce, decrease cornstarch by 1 teaspoon.
Marinating for Deeper Flavor
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For even deeper flavor, marinate it overnight in the fridge to let the flavors really sink in.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use regular soy sauce if you don’t have reduced-sodium.
- Try honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a twist.
- If you can’t find Shaoxing wine, dry sherry or white wine will work.
- Chicken breasts are a great alternative to chicken thighs.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Refrigerator Storage
Keep your chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 4 days, making quick meals easy to prepare during the week.
Freezing for Later
Freeze your Teriyaki Chicken for up to a month. Store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. To eat, air-fry for 2 to 4 minutes straight from the freezer.
Budget-Friendly Tips
- Choosing chicken thighs over breasts helps you save money. Thighs are cheaper and make the dish juicier and more flavorful.
- Look for sales and discounts on ingredients like soy sauce, brown sugar, and spices.
- Buy in bulk when ingredients are on sale to save money.
Delicious Side Dish Pairings
Steamed Jasmine or Brown Rice
Top the tender teriyaki chicken on steamed jasmine or brown rice for a classic mix. This pairs well because of the rice’s texture and mild taste, enhancing the meal with the sauce.
Stir-Fried Vegetables
Pair the chicken with stir-fried veggies like broccoli and bell peppers for color and nutrition. The veggies give a nice crunch and balance the meal’s flavor.
Asian-Inspired Salad
Try an Asian salad with greens and a zesty dressing next to the teriyaki chicken. It brings a light, fresh contrast to the rich main course.
Taking This Copycat Recipe To Go!
This copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken recipe lets you enjoy a popular fast food dish at home. It gives you the same great taste with simple steps and helpful tips. Each serving has around 240 calories and 22g of protein, making it a good choice for muscle upkeep, staying fit, and keeping healthy. If you love Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken or want to try something new, this recipe is right for you. Its preparation is easy with helpful hints. Enjoy the dish at home without missing out on its flavors. Let’s get cooking and enjoy the tasty outcome of our work!
FAQ
What are the main ingredients needed to make the copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken?
For tasty teriyaki chicken, get chicken thighs, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Also, you need cornstarch and water.
How do I prepare the chicken for the teriyaki sauce?
Cut the chicken into small bites. Then, let it soak in the teriyaki sauce mix before you cook it.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely, chicken breasts work great too. You can go with either thighs or breasts for this dish.
How do I make the teriyaki sauce for the chicken?
Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger with cornstarch and water. Simmer until it’s thick and ready for the chicken.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, make it gluten-free by choosing a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
How long does the leftover Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken last in the fridge?
The chicken keeps well for 3-4 days in the fridge. Use an airtight container to store it.
Can I freeze the leftover Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken?
Sure, freeze it for 2-3 months. Keep it in a container that’s airtight and safe for the freezer.
What are some budget-friendly tips for making this Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken recipe?
Use thighs instead of breasts. Buy what you need in bulk. Also, look out for sales and deals at your grocery store.
What are some good side dish options to serve with the Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken?
Great choices are steaming jasmine or brown rice and stir-fried veggies. Don’t forget an Asian salad too.
Best Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe You Ever Did Try!
Equipment
- Large skillet or grill pan
- Medium-sized mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- 2 tbsp canola oil
- ¼ tsp each salt & pepper
Teriyaki Sauce:
- â…” cup sugar
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- â…“ cup water
- 1½ tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Toss the chicken thighs with canola oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large grill pan or skillet over high heat. Cook the chicken thighs for 3-5 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, combine sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, ginger, and water.
- Bring this mixture to a boil in a separate pan, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce and stir until it thickens.
- Combine and Serve:
- Slice the cooked chicken and drizzle the thickened teriyaki sauce over the top.
- Serve with steamed rice and vegetables. Garnish with optional sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
- Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much upon reheating, add a splash of water to thin it out.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for added nutrition and color. You can also substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs if preferred.
