Homemade Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Craving the delicious, savory taste of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken but want to enjoy it from the comfort of your home?

This recipe captures all the mouthwatering flavors of the restaurant favorite, with tender chicken thighs glazed in a rich, sweet teriyaki sauce. Easy to make and perfect for any meal, this dish will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Let’s get started on this irresistible journey!

Preparation Time:

• Total time: 40 minutes
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes

Serves: 4 people

Difficulty: Easy

Necessary Ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations):

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

For a vegan version, substitute chicken with tofu or seitan. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

The Steps of Preparation (possible in all kinds of variations):

1. Prepare the chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, 1/4 cup water, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
5. Cook the sauce: In the same skillet, add the sauce mixture. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Thicken the sauce: In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Add this mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
7. Add sesame oil: Stir in the sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
8. Combine and coat: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce.
9. Garnish and serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Protein-packed: Chicken thighs provide high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in antioxidants: Garlic and ginger offer antioxidant properties that support immune health.
• Balanced flavor: The combination of sweet and savory ingredients enhances overall taste without needing additional sodium.
• Healthy fats: Sesame oil contains healthy fats that support heart health.
• Iron-rich: Chicken is a good source of iron, important for oxygen transport in the body.

Possible Additions or Upgrades to the Recipe:

• Add steamed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
• Serve over a bed of brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthy grain option.
• Include a side of fresh salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the teriyaki chicken.
• Drizzle extra teriyaki sauce over the chicken if you prefer a saucier dish.
• Add a touch of heat with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.

Q&A

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may be slightly less tender than thighs.

What if I don’t have sesame oil? You can substitute it with another oil, but sesame oil adds a unique, nutty flavor that’s signature to teriyaki dishes.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until hot.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat it gently before adding to the chicken.

What can I use instead of rice vinegar? Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can be used as substitutes, though the flavor might slightly differ.

Can I freeze this dish? Yes, cooked teriyaki chicken can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I make the sauce thicker? If the sauce isn’t thick enough, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with water and add to the sauce, simmering until it thickens.

What’s a good side dish? Steamed or stir-fried vegetables, rice, noodles, or a simple cucumber salad make great side dishes.

Is this dish kid-friendly? Absolutely! The sweet and savory flavors are generally well-liked by kids.

Can I use this recipe for meal prep? Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Portion out servings with rice and vegetables in airtight containers for a week of balanced meals.