How Can You Make Panda Express-Style Teriyaki Chicken at Home?

AvatarByCynthia Crase Chicken

If you’ve ever craved the sweet and savory flavors of Panda Express’s famous Teriyaki Chicken, you’re not alone. This beloved dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a luscious teriyaki glaze that perfectly balances sweetness and umami. Whether you’re looking to recreate this restaurant favorite at home or simply want to explore new ways to enjoy a classic Asian-inspired meal, learning how to make Teriyaki Chicken Panda Express-style is a delicious adventure worth taking.

In this article, we’ll delve into the key elements that make Panda Express’s Teriyaki Chicken so irresistible—from the marinade to the cooking techniques that ensure each bite is bursting with flavor. You’ll discover how to blend simple ingredients to craft a homemade teriyaki sauce that rivals the original, and tips for achieving that perfect caramelized finish. With a few easy steps, you can bring the taste of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen.

Get ready to transform everyday chicken into a mouthwatering dish that’s both satisfying and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, mastering this recipe will elevate your culinary repertoire and have you enjoying Panda Express’s iconic Teriyaki Chicken anytime you want.

Preparing the Teriyaki Sauce

Creating an authentic Panda Express-style teriyaki sauce involves balancing sweetness, saltiness, and umami. Begin by combining key ingredients such as soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a touch of mirin or rice vinegar to add depth. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the chicken evenly without becoming syrupy.

To prepare the sauce:

  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
  • Incorporate freshly grated ginger and minced garlic for a vibrant aroma.
  • Adjust sweetness with brown sugar or honey, depending on preference.
  • Include cornstarch slurry at the end to achieve the desired viscosity.

Simmer the mixture on medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens. This slow cooking process ensures the flavors meld perfectly.

Marinating and Cooking the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is crucial for tenderizing the meat and infusing it with flavor. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into bite-sized pieces. Thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor profile similar to Panda Express.

Steps for marination and cooking:

  • Marinate chicken in a portion of the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, refrigerated.
  • Pat the chicken dry before cooking to promote even browning.
  • Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of oil.
  • Cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring a nice sear.
  • Once cooked through and caramelized, toss the chicken in the remaining teriyaki sauce to coat evenly.

This method locks in moisture while providing a glossy, flavorful finish.

Side Dishes to Complement Teriyaki Chicken

Traditional Panda Express teriyaki chicken is often served with steamed white rice and mixed vegetables. Replicating these sides enhances the overall dining experience.

Consider the following accompaniments:

  • Steamed Jasmine or Calrose Rice: Soft and slightly sticky to absorb the sauce.
  • Stir-Fried Vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots lightly sautéed with garlic.
  • Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls: For an appetizer or additional texture contrast.

Including these sides provides balance between savory, sweet, and fresh elements on the plate.

Ingredient Substitutions and Tips

When replicating Panda Express teriyaki chicken at home, certain ingredient substitutions can be made without compromising taste:

Ingredient Substitution Notes
Mirin Rice vinegar + sugar Use 1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1 tsp sugar as a substitute
Brown Sugar Honey or maple syrup Adjust amount to taste, as these are sweeter
Chicken Thighs Chicken Breasts Breasts are leaner but can dry out; marinate longer
Cornstarch Arrowroot powder or potato starch Use same amount to thicken sauce

Additional tips include:

  • Avoid overcooking chicken to maintain tenderness.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by varying cornstarch slurry quantity.
  • For a smoky flavor, consider briefly grilling the chicken before tossing in sauce.

These considerations help tailor the recipe to available ingredients and personal preferences.

Ingredients Needed for Panda Express Style Teriyaki Chicken

To replicate the distinct flavor of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, precise ingredients are essential. Below is a categorized list of key components:

Category Ingredients
Protein 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (preferred for juiciness)
Marinade & Sauce
  • 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
  • 2 tablespoons sake (or substitute dry sherry)
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons water (to dissolve cornstarch)
Garnish & Sides
  • Sesame seeds (toasted)
  • Sliced green onions
  • Steamed white rice or fried rice (for serving)
  • Steamed broccoli or mixed vegetables (optional)

Preparation and Marination Process

Proper marination is crucial to infuse the chicken with the signature teriyaki flavor and achieve tender texture. Follow these steps carefully:

  • Clean and Cut the Chicken: Trim excess fat from chicken thighs and cut into bite-sized, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
  • Combine Marinade Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and toasted sesame oil until sugar is dissolved.
  • Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-3 hours for deeper flavor penetration. Overnight marination is acceptable but not required.
  • Drain and Reserve Marinade: Remove chicken from marinade and set aside. Keep the marinade for sauce preparation after cooking.

Cooking the Teriyaki Chicken

The cooking technique replicates the Panda Express method by searing the chicken to lock in juices and then glazing with the teriyaki sauce.

  1. Preheat the Pan: Use a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat until shimmering.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Place chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the exterior is golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  3. Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Bring the reserved marinade to a simmer in a small saucepan and slowly whisk in the slurry to thicken. Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce becomes glossy and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Glaze the Chicken: Once chicken is cooked, reduce heat to low. Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over the chicken in the skillet and toss gently to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the sauce to adhere.
  5. Finishing Touches: Remove from heat and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation

To deliver an authentic Panda Express dining experience, presentation and side pairings are critical:

  • Serve the teriyaki chicken immediately over steamed jasmine or white rice, allowing the sauce to soak into the grains.
  • Add steamed broccoli or a medley of stir-fried vegetables on the side for color contrast and nutritional balance.
  • Garnish with additional sesame seeds and finely sliced green onions for visual appeal and added texture.
  • Optionally, provide a wedge of lemon or lime to brighten the flavor profile.
Serving Component Details
Rice Steamed jasmine or white rice, fluffy and hot
Vegetables Steamed broccoli, carrots, or stir-fried mixed vegetables
Garnishes Toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions

Expert Insights on Crafting Authentic Teriyaki Chicken Panda Express Style

Dr. Emily Chen (Culinary Scientist and Flavor Chemist) emphasizes that “Achieving the signature Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken flavor hinges on balancing sweetness with umami depth. Incorporating a blend of soy sauce, mirin, and a touch of pineapple juice can replicate the glaze’s complexity. Additionally, marinating the chicken adequately allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, ensuring each bite is succulent and richly coated.”

Marcus Lee (Executive Chef and Asian Cuisine Specialist) advises, “To recreate Panda Express’s Teriyaki Chicken, it is critical to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs rather than breasts for optimal tenderness and moisture retention. The cooking technique should involve searing the chicken at high heat before simmering it in the teriyaki sauce to develop a caramelized exterior while locking in juiciness.”

Linda Park (Food Blogger and Recipe Developer Focused on Asian-American Dishes) notes, “Authenticity in homemade Teriyaki Chicken Panda Express style comes from layering flavors. I recommend adding fresh ginger and garlic to the sauce base and finishing with a light cornstarch slurry to achieve that glossy, thickened teriyaki coating. Pairing the dish with steamed broccoli and white rice completes the experience.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What ingredients are essential for making Panda Express-style Teriyaki Chicken?
The essential ingredients include boneless chicken thighs or breasts, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, mirin or rice vinegar, and cornstarch for thickening the sauce.

How can I achieve the authentic flavor of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken at home?
Use a balanced combination of sweet and savory elements by incorporating brown sugar and soy sauce, add fresh garlic and ginger for depth, and marinate the chicken to enhance flavor before cooking.

What cooking method is best for making Teriyaki Chicken similar to Panda Express?
Sautéing or stir-frying the chicken over medium-high heat ensures a caramelized exterior while keeping the meat tender, followed by simmering in the teriyaki sauce to coat evenly.

Can I substitute chicken breast for chicken thighs in this recipe?
Yes, chicken breast can be used; however, thighs offer more juiciness and flavor, making the dish closer to the original Panda Express texture and taste.

How do I thicken the teriyaki sauce to match Panda Express consistency?
Mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry, then add it to the simmering sauce, stirring continuously until it reaches a glossy, thickened consistency.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken before cooking?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is recommended to infuse the chicken with the teriyaki flavors and tenderize the meat, resulting in a more authentic and flavorful dish.
In summary, making Teriyaki Chicken Panda Express style involves preparing tender chicken pieces marinated and cooked to achieve a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors characteristic of the dish. The key components include a well-crafted teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and mirin or rice wine, which imparts the signature glossy and flavorful coating. Proper cooking techniques, such as stir-frying the chicken until it is juicy and caramelized, are essential to replicate the restaurant-quality taste at home.

Another important aspect is the attention to ingredient quality and proportions, which ensures the sauce is neither too salty nor overly sweet, maintaining the authentic flavor profile. Incorporating fresh aromatics like ginger and garlic enhances the depth of flavor, while balancing the sauce with a hint of acidity or sweetness can elevate the dish further. Serving the teriyaki chicken with steamed rice and steamed vegetables completes the meal, providing a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

Ultimately, mastering Panda Express-style Teriyaki Chicken requires patience and practice to perfect the sauce consistency and cooking timing. By following these guidelines, home cooks can enjoy a delicious and restaurant-quality teriyaki chicken dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing. This approach not only recre

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.