Teriyaki Chicken from Panda Express features tender grilled chicken glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, garnished with sesame seeds and served with steamed vegetables, delivering a flavorful and satisfying Asian-inspired meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Steamer or steaming basket
- Serving plate or platter
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mirin (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup snow peas
Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures tenderness and juiciness, while mirin adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the teriyaki sauce but can be omitted if unavailable. Make sure to prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with water to properly thicken the sauce, creating that signature glossy finish. Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavor profile, so finely mincing them will help release their aromatic qualities. Steaming the vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snow peas preserves their crunch and nutrients, complementing the savory chicken. Your homemade Teriyaki Chicken from Panda Express copycat menu will replicate the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with tender chicken and crisp, steamed veggies.
Instructions
- Prepare teriyaki sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, 1/4 cup water, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, mirin (if using), minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil.
- Transfer sauce mixture to a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water to make a slurry.
- Add slurry to the simmering sauce and whisk until thickened, then set aside.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Trim and pat dry chicken thighs with a paper towel.
- Grill chicken thighs for 4–5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Remove grilled chicken from heat and slice into strips or bite-size pieces.
- Steam broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and snow peas until just tender, about 3–5 minutes.
- Arrange steamed vegetables on a serving plate or platter.
- Place sliced grilled chicken on top of the vegetables.
- Generously glaze chicken with the thickened teriyaki sauce.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
This Teriyaki Chicken copycat from Panda Express lets you replicate the beloved sweet and savory flavor at home using basic kitchen tools like a grill pan and saucepan. If you don't have mirin, you can skip it or substitute with a small amount of additional rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar to maintain the balance. Use chicken breasts instead of thighs if preferred, keeping in mind that thighs offer more moisture and tenderness. For steaming vegetables, a steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl with a lid works well to retain nutrients and crispness. Your sauce thickens perfectly with a cornstarch slurry, so mix it thoroughly before adding to avoid lumps.
Tips
Ensure the chicken thighs are patted dry before grilling to achieve a nice char and prevent steaming. When thickening the sauce with cornstarch slurry, add it gradually and whisk continuously to avoid lumps. Steam the vegetables until just tender to retain their crisp texture and vibrant color, enhancing the dish's visual appeal and nutrition. Your teriyaki chicken will taste best served immediately after glazing to preserve the sauce's glossy finish and bold flavor.
Nutritions
Teriyaki Chicken from Panda Express provides a balanced meal rich in protein from boneless, skinless chicken thighs, essential for muscle repair and growth. The dish incorporates steamed broccoli, carrots, and snow peas, offering a variety of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber that promote digestive health. The teriyaki sauce, made with soy sauce, honey, and brown sugar, adds flavor but also includes sugars that should be consumed in moderation. Your meal delivers a satisfying combination of macronutrients and micronutrients suitable for a nutritious Asian-inspired dinner.
Storage
Store leftover Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Keep the glossy teriyaki sauce separate if possible to avoid sogginess, and reheat gently in a microwave or skillet to preserve the tender texture of the grilled chicken and crispness of the steamed vegetables. Consume refrigerated leftovers within 3 to 4 days for optimal flavor and safety.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute boneless chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option, adjusting grilling time to prevent dryness. Instead of grilling, try pan-searing the chicken in a cast-iron skillet to achieve a caramelized crust. For added spice, incorporate a teaspoon of chili flakes or sriracha into the teriyaki sauce before simmering. Swap broccoli and snow peas with snap peas or bok choy to vary the vegetable medley according to availability.
Allergies
This Teriyaki Chicken may pose allergy risks due to soy sauce, which contains soy and wheat, common allergens. The presence of sesame seeds and sesame oil introduces potential sesame allergies, while honey can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. If you have any food allergies, carefully review these ingredients before enjoying your meal.
Why this recipe?
Teriyaki Chicken from Panda Express offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, glazed with a rich, tangy teriyaki sauce that complements tender, juicy chicken pieces. The dish provides a satisfying texture contrast between the caramelized sauce and succulent meat, making it a favorite among customers seeking bold and comforting tastes. You can recreate this popular menu item at home to customize the sweetness and savoriness to your preference while ensuring freshness and quality control. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with the convenience of your kitchen.