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As the sun sets on a busy workday, the smell of sizzling teriyaki chicken fills the air. It takes me back to the lively Panda Express. This fast-food favorite was a staple for its perfect mix of savory and sweet.

Now, you can make Panda Express’ Grilled Teriyaki Chicken at home. This easy recipe lets you enjoy it in your kitchen.

Craving Asian flavors or looking for a cheap dining option? This homemade Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is perfect. It uses juicy chicken thighs and a simple teriyaki sauce. You’ll get restaurant-quality food without leaving home.

What Makes This Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Special

Make your meals at home better with this Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken recipe. It delivers restaurant-quality flavors straight to your home kitchen. You can also make it healthier by choosing your ingredients.

Restaurant-Quality Results at Home

Learning to grill teriyaki chicken is a big win. It lets you enjoy the taste of Chinese food from home. This recipe ensures your chicken is always tender and full of flavor, pleasing everyone.

Health Benefits of Homemade Version

This homemade version is healthier than Panda Express’s. You can reduce sodium and avoid MSG. So, you get to enjoy delicious grilled dishes without harming your health.

Cost-Effective Alternative

Making this recipe at home is good for your wallet and health. Cooking in bulk saves money and gives you leftovers for quick meals.

“This homemade Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken is a game-changer. I can’t believe I’m getting restaurant-quality results in my own kitchen!”

Nutrition Facts	Per Serving
Calories	320
Total Fat	13g
Saturated Fat	2g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	70mg
Sodium	730mg
Total Carbohydrates	14g
Sugar	13g
Protein	38g

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

To get the taste of Panda Express’ Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, you need a few key ingredients. The base is lean protein from boneless, skinless chicken thighs. These cuts remain juicy and tender on the grill.

For the teriyaki marinade and sauce, you’ll need soy sauce, white granulated sugar, garlic powder, and white pepper. White pepper has a milder taste than black pepper, fitting the Asian cuisine style. Canola oil helps the marinade and sauce stick to the chicken.

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1.5 lbs)
Soy sauce (1/2 cup)
White granulated sugar (3 tablespoons)
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
White pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
Canola oil (2 tablespoons)

The homemade teriyaki sauce needs more ingredients. These include water, light brown sugar, sesame oil, lemon juice, cornstarch, and more garlic and ginger powders. Together, they create the sweet, savory, and umami flavors that make Panda Express’ teriyaki so loved.

“The secret to achieving the authentic Panda Express teriyaki flavor lies in the precise selection and balance of ingredients.Every component plays a crucial role in delivering that signature taste.”

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the tasty Panda Express grilled teriyaki chicken at home, you’ll need some basic tools. These will help you get that restaurant-quality taste and texture in your kitchen.

Essential Cookware

You’ll need a cast-iron skillet or grill pan for searing and grilling the chicken. Also, a clean pan for pressing the chicken as it cooks. And a small saucepan for making the teriyaki sauce.

Optional Equipment for Better Results

Some optional tools can make your grilled teriyaki chicken even better. A meat thermometer helps ensure the chicken is cooked just right. Airtight containers are ideal for preserving leftovers.

Measuring Tools

Measuring cups
Measuring spoons

Getting the right amounts is key when making the marinade and teriyaki sauce. Ensure you have measuring cups and spoons to achieve perfect accuracy.

With the right tools and equipment, you’ll be on your way to making delicious grilled teriyaki chicken. It will taste just like your favorite Panda Express dishes.

Preparing the Perfect Chicken Marinade

Creating an authentic teriyaki chicken dish starts with the marinade. It’s the base for a flavorful experience. For the Panda Express-inspired teriyaki chicken recipe, the marinade is a mix of simple, yet key ingredients.

To make the marinade, mix soy sauce, water, brown sugar, garlic powder, and white pepper in a bowl. Whisk until the sugar dissolves. Then, put the marinade in a sealable plastic bag. Add your boneless, skinless chicken thighs and seal the bag.

Use your fingers to coat each piece of chicken evenly with the marinade. Put the bag in the fridge. Let it marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour, turning the bag now and then.

This marinade step is key for adding bold, savory-sweet flavors to your teriyaki chicken. By letting the chicken soak in the marinade, you prepare it for a delicious grilled teriyaki chicken dish. It will taste like your favorite Panda Express.

“The secret to exceptional teriyaki chicken lies in the marinade. It’s the foundation that elevates the dish to new heights of flavor.”

Step-by-Step Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Instructions

Learning to make Panda Express-style grilled teriyaki chicken at home is fun. Follow these easy steps to make this tasty grilled dishes menu item in your kitchen.

Marinating Process

Start by marinating the chicken to give it that Panda Express teriyaki taste. Mix the chicken thighs with soy sauce, garlic paste, ginger paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bag or dish. Make sure the chicken is well-coated. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours to soak up the flavors.

Grilling Technique

Once marinated, take the chicken out and dry it with paper towels. Heat your grill or skillet on medium-low, adding olive oil. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down to flatten. Cook until it reaches 170°F.

Sauce Application

While the chicken cooks, make the Panda Express teriyaki sauce. Mix soy sauce, garlic paste, ginger paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water in a saucepan. Simmer while stirring frequently until the mixture thickens, approximately 3-5 minutes. Toss the cooked chicken with the sauce to coat evenly.

By following these steps, you can make Panda Express’ Grilled Teriyaki Chicken at home. It’s perfect as a main dish or in your favorite grilled dishes recipes.

Making the Signature Teriyaki Sauce

Creating the perfect teriyaki sauce is key to getting that Panda Express flavor at home. This sauce has a sweet, salty, and savory mix. It’s perfect with the grilled teriyaki chicken. Let’s explore how to make this essential sauce.

The sauce starts with water, white and brown sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Add fresh lemon juice, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger powder, and a bit of salt. Whisk all the ingredients together in a small saucepan until there are no lumps. Then, simmer it over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens in 1-2 minutes.

Teriyaki sauce has a long history in Japan, dating back to the 17th century. The Panda Express recipe uses soy sauce for its salty-sweet taste. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to fully penetrate, and cook for about 40 minutes.

“This recipe yields 2 servings, with each serving containing about 360 calories.”

After the sauce thickens, take it off the heat and let it cool a bit. Use it to baste the grilled teriyaki chicken. The tender chicken and flavorful teriyaki sauce bring a true taste of asian cuisine. It will take you to the vibrant flavors of Panda Express.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

To get restaurant-quality grilled teriyaki chicken at home, it’s not just about the recipe. Here are some professional tips to help you perfect this dish. Enjoy perfect results every time.

Temperature Control

Make sure your grill or skillet is hot before adding the chicken. A hot surface is key for a nice sear and keeping the juices in. Adjust the heat to avoid burning or drying out the chicken.

Timing Guidelines

Watch the cooking time closely. Overcooking chicken breasts can cause them to dry out quickly. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to an hour before cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the grill or skillet, which can steam the chicken instead of searing it
Applying the teriyaki sauce too early, causing it to burn and become bitter
Cutting into the chicken too soon, allowing the juices to escape
Neglecting to let the chicken rest before serving, which allows the juices to redistribute

Follow these expert tips and techniques to consistently make grilled teriyaki chicken like your favorite restaurant dishes. Practice and experiment to find the best method for your kitchen and taste.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Make your homemade Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken even better by serving it over steamed jasmine or brown rice. Add some stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for a nutritious side. An Asian-inspired salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes can also add a refreshing touch.

For a more filling meal, try adding vegetable fried rice or shrimp tempura to your dish. These options will turn your grilled teriyaki chicken into a full Asian cuisine feast.

Menu Item	Calories	Total Fat (g)	Saturated Fat (g)	Sodium (mg)	Carbs (g)	Fiber (g)	Sugar (g)	Protein (g)
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken	340	13	3.5	630	14	3	10	41
String Bean Chicken Breast	210	12	2	560	13	5	5	12
Broccoli Beef	150	7	1.5	520	13	2	7	9
Black Pepper Angus Steak	210	10	2.5	560	13	1	7	19
Mushroom Chicken	220	14	2.5	840	10	1	5	13
Grilled Teriyaki Cub Meal	210	8	2	350	11	0	7	25
Super Greens	90	3	0	260	10	5	4	6
Steamed Brown Rice	420	4	1	15	86	4	1	9

The table above shows the nutritional info for different Panda Express menu items. It helps you choose well-balanced meals with your homemade Grilled Teriyaki Chicken.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your homemade Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken. Whether you’re meal prepping or have leftovers, these tips will keep your chicken fresh and tasty.

First, let the chicken cool to room temperature. Then, put the chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers. Refrigerate them for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Allow frozen chicken to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, you have a few options. On the stovetop, add a few tablespoons of water to the chicken and sauce. Heat over medium until it’s warm. Or, microwave the chicken in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until it’s hot. Always reheat the chicken and sauce together for the best flavor.

By following these easy tips, you can enjoy Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken for days or weeks. Meal prep with confidence and enjoy this dish again and again.

Storage Method	Duration
Refrigerator	Up to 3 days
Freezer	Up to 3 months

Recipe Variations and Adaptations

The Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe is very flexible. You can adjust it to suit your diet and preferences. Looking for something healthier or different flavors? There are many ways to make this recipe your own.

Healthy Options

Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
Substitute chicken breasts for thighs for a leaner protein option.
Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by varying the amount of sugar or using alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Spice It Up

Craving a little more heat? Add a dash of chili flakes or a squirt of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

Vegetarian and Vegan Versions

For a meat-free alternative, try using firm tofu or seitan in place of the chicken. You can also experiment with adding pineapple juice to the sauce for a tropical twist.

“Customizing recipes to match your dietary needs or personal tastes is a fantastic way to make them uniquely yours and savor every bite.”

Remember, the key to achieving delicious results is to adjust the recipe’s components to your taste. Start with small changes and work your way up until you’ve created the perfect Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken for your palate.

Conclusion

This Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken copycat recipe lets you enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. It offers a perfectly balanced blend of sweet and savory flavors. The chicken is tender, and it pairs well with many foods.

Making it at home is healthier than takeout. It’s also easy to prepare, so you get great results every time. This recipe is perfect if you want to make a tasty teriyaki chicken dish or recreate Panda Express’s signature taste.

By learning to make Panda Express grilled teriyaki chicken, you can enjoy it at a lower cost. It’s a great way to make your meals at home better. Plus, it will impress your guests with its delicious taste, just like Panda Express.

FAQ

What makes this Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe special?

This homemade version of Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is top-notch. You have full control over the ingredients. It’s healthier because you can lower the sodium and skip additives like MSG. Plus, it’s cheaper, especially when you make a lot at once.

What are the key ingredients for this Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken recipe?

The main ingredients are boneless skinless chicken thighs, soy sauce, and white sugar. You also need garlic powder, white pepper, and canola oil. For the sauce, you’ll mix water, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, lemon juice, cornstarch, brown sugar, garlic powder, ginger powder, and salt.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make this recipe?

You’ll need a cast-iron skillet or grill pan, a clean pan for pressing the chicken, and a small saucepan for the sauce. You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons. Optional tools include a meat thermometer and airtight containers for storage.

How do you prepare the chicken marinade for this Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken?

To make the marinade, mix soy sauce, water, sugar, garlic powder, and white pepper in a bowl. Put it in a sealable bag with the chicken thighs. Close the bag securely and gently work the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour, turning the bag a few times.

What is the step-by-step process for cooking the Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken?

First, pat the chicken dry after marinating. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-low. Cook the chicken while pressing it with a clean pan to flatten. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until it reaches 170°F. For the sauce, whisk all ingredients in a saucepan and simmer while stirring until thickened. Toss the cooked chicken with the sauce before serving.

How do you make the signature Panda Express Teriyaki Sauce?

To make the sauce, mix water, white and brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, lemon juice, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger powder, and salt in a saucepan. Whisk until smooth. Simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens in 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat when it’s the right consistency.

What are some expert tips for achieving perfect results with this Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe?

Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a good sear. Adjust the sauce’s thickness with cornstarch slurry or water. Marinate the chicken for up to an hour for extra flavor. Use chicken breasts for a leaner option but watch cooking time to prevent drying. Substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch if needed. Add sesame oil at the end for extra richness.

How do you serve and pair the Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken?

Serve the teriyaki chicken over steamed jasmine or brown rice. Pair it with stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. An Asian-inspired salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing touch. Consider adding sides like vegetable fried rice or shrimp tempura for a more elaborate meal.

How do you store and reheat leftover Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken?

Cool leftover teriyaki chicken to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop with a few tablespoons of water or microwave in 20-second increments, stirring between each interval.

Can this recipe be adapted to suit dietary needs or preferences?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe to suit dietary needs. Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version. Swap chicken thighs with breasts for a lighter alternative. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar in the sauce. Add heat with chili flakes or sriracha. For a vegetarian alternative, replace the chicken with firm tofu or seitan. Experiment with adding pineapple juice to the sauce for a tropical twist.