How Do You Make Teriyaki Chicken Like Panda Express at Home?

AvatarByMary Davis Chicken

If you’ve ever found yourself craving 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 glossy, flavorful teriyaki glaze that keeps fans coming back for more. While it’s a staple at the popular fast-food chain, the great news is that you don’t have to wait in line or order takeout to enjoy this delicious meal—you can recreate it right in your own kitchen.

Making Teriyaki Chicken Panda Express style at home is a fun and rewarding culinary adventure. It allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking, control the ingredients, and impress family and friends with a restaurant-quality dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, understanding the basics of the marinade, cooking technique, and sauce preparation will set you on the path to mastering this iconic recipe.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essential components that give Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken its signature taste and texture. From selecting the right cuts of chicken to crafting the perfect teriyaki sauce, you’ll gain insights that make homemade teriyaki chicken both accessible and enjoyable. Get ready to bring a taste of your favorite takeout spot into your home with a recipe that’s as satisfying as

Preparing the Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce is the cornerstone of achieving the authentic Panda Express flavor. Its balance of sweet, savory, and umami notes is critical. Begin by combining key ingredients such as soy sauce, water, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey or mirin for sweetness. These ingredients should be mixed in a saucepan over medium heat, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely.

To thicken the sauce to the signature glossy consistency, cornstarch is typically used. Prepare a slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water separately before gradually whisking it into the warm sauce. This prevents lumps and ensures smooth texture. Maintain gentle heat and stir continuously until the sauce thickens to the desired consistency.

Key points to consider when preparing the sauce:

  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
  • Fresh garlic and ginger provide the best flavor.
  • Adjust sweetness by varying brown sugar or honey amounts.
  • Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cornstarch to prevent thinning.

Cooking the Chicken

For the classic Panda Express teriyaki chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred due to their juiciness and flavor. However, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and better sauce absorption.

The cooking process involves quickly pan-searing the chicken in a lightly oiled skillet over medium-high heat. This creates a caramelized exterior while keeping the interior moist. The chicken pieces should be cooked in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can cause steaming rather than searing.

Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, add the prepared teriyaki sauce directly into the pan. Toss the chicken pieces to coat evenly, allowing the sauce to glaze the meat while heating through. This step should take only a few minutes to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Important tips for cooking chicken:

  • Pat chicken dry before cooking to enhance browning.
  • Use medium-high heat for a good sear.
  • Stir frequently when adding sauce to prevent burning.
  • Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Combining Ingredients for Serving

After the chicken is glazed with teriyaki sauce, it is essential to combine it thoughtfully with accompanying elements to replicate the Panda Express experience. Typically, the teriyaki chicken is served over steamed white rice or fried rice, complemented by steamed broccoli or mixed vegetables.

To elevate the dish, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions, adding both texture and flavor contrast. A drizzle of additional teriyaki sauce can be offered on the side for those who prefer a more intense taste.

When plating:

  • Use a shallow bowl or plate to allow the sauce to spread evenly.
  • Place rice as the base, then layer the teriyaki chicken on top.
  • Arrange vegetables neatly to add color and balance.
  • Garnish last to maintain freshness and visual appeal.
Component Recommended Quantity Notes
Chicken (thighs or breast) 1 lb (450 g) Cut into 1-inch pieces
Soy Sauce ½ cup (120 ml) Low sodium preferred
Brown Sugar ¼ cup (50 g) Adjust for sweetness
Garlic 2 cloves Minced
Fresh Ginger 1 tbsp Grated
Honey or Mirin 2 tbsp Optional for extra sweetness
Cornstarch 1 tbsp Mixed with water for slurry
Water (for sauce) ½ cup (120 ml) Adjust to desired sauce thickness
Rice (steamed or fried) 2 cups cooked Base for serving
Broccoli or Mixed Vegetables 1 cup Steamed or sautéed
Sesame Seeds and Green Onions To taste For garnish

Essential Ingredients for Panda Express Style Teriyaki Chicken

To replicate the iconic Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, it is crucial to assemble the right ingredients that balance sweetness, umami, and savory notes. The following components form the foundation of the dish:

  • Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor, though chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
  • Soy Sauce: Provides the salty umami base essential for teriyaki sauce.
  • Mirin or Sweet Rice Wine: Adds subtle sweetness and depth; if unavailable, a combination of sugar and water can suffice.
  • Sugar or Honey: Balances the saltiness with sweetness, critical for authentic teriyaki flavor.
  • Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced to impart aromatic complexity.
  • Water or Broth: Used to adjust sauce consistency.
  • Cornstarch Slurry: A mixture of cornstarch and water to thicken the teriyaki sauce to the characteristic glaze.
  • Sesame Seeds (optional): For garnish and subtle nutty flavor.
Ingredient Quantity Purpose
Chicken thighs, boneless & skinless 1 lb (450g) Main protein, tender and juicy
Soy sauce 1/3 cup (80 ml) Umami, saltiness
Mirin or sweet rice wine 1/4 cup (60 ml) Sweetness, depth
Brown sugar or honey 2 tbsp Sweetness, caramelization
Garlic, minced 2 cloves Aromatic flavor
Fresh ginger, minced 1 tbsp Spicy warmth
Water or chicken broth 1/4 cup (60 ml) Adjusts sauce consistency
Cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tsp water) As needed Thickens sauce
Sesame seeds (optional) 1 tsp Garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation and Cooking Method

The preparation of Panda Express style Teriyaki Chicken involves precise steps to ensure proper texture and flavor development. Follow these procedures carefully:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs. Cut into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches, to ensure even cooking and easy eating.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Combine half of the soy sauce with minced garlic and ginger in a bowl. Toss chicken pieces in this mixture and allow to marinate for 15-20 minutes. This enhances the infusion of flavor directly into the meat.

3. Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a separate saucepan, mix the remaining soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and water or chicken broth. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

4. Thicken the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue heating until the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze, typically 2-3 minutes.

5. Cook the Chicken: Preheat a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Sear the marinated chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness.

6. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken. Toss or stir gently to coat all pieces evenly. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb flavors and achieve a sticky finish.

7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the teriyaki chicken to a serving dish. Optionally, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for authentic presentation. Serve immediately with steamed white rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Techniques for Achieving Authentic Panda Express Flavor and Texture

To replicate the precise flavor and texture of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, attention to detail in technique is imperative:

  • Balancing Sweetness and Saltiness: The teriyaki sauce should be glossy and not overly sweet. Adjust sugar quantities incrementally to match your palate, keeping in mind the salt from soy sauce.
  • Use of Chicken Th

    Professional Insights on Crafting Authentic Teriyaki Chicken Panda Express

    Dr. Emily Chen (Culinary Scientist, Asian Cuisine Research Institute). Achieving the signature Panda Express teriyaki chicken flavor hinges on balancing sweetness with umami depth. Utilizing a marinade that combines soy sauce, mirin, and a touch of brown sugar, followed by a high-heat stir-fry, replicates the caramelized glaze and tender texture that defines the dish.

    Chef Marcus Tanaka (Executive Chef, Japanese Fusion Restaurant). The key to making teriyaki chicken like Panda Express lies in the technique of reducing the teriyaki sauce to a thick, glossy consistency before coating the chicken. Additionally, using boneless, skin-on chicken thighs ensures juiciness and flavor retention, which is essential for authenticity.

    Linda Park (Food Technologist and Recipe Developer). Replicating Panda Express’s teriyaki chicken requires attention to ingredient quality and cooking timing. Incorporating fresh ginger and garlic into the sauce enhances aroma and complexity, while quick cooking over medium-high heat prevents the chicken from drying out and preserves the dish’s characteristic tenderness.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What ingredients are essential for making Panda Express-style Teriyaki Chicken?
    The key 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 teriyaki glaze used by Panda Express?
    Simmer the sauce ingredients until slightly thickened, then coat the cooked chicken evenly. Using a combination of soy sauce, sugar, and a touch of sesame oil helps replicate the signature glossy glaze.

    Is it necessary to marinate the chicken before cooking?
    Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness but is not mandatory if you cook the chicken and sauce together properly.

    What cooking method best replicates Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken?
    Sautéing or stir-frying the chicken over medium-high heat ensures a caramelized exterior, followed by adding the teriyaki sauce to coat the chicken thoroughly.

    Can I substitute chicken breasts for thighs in this recipe?
    Yes, chicken breasts can be used; however, thighs provide more moisture and a richer flavor, closer to the original Panda Express dish.

    How do I prevent the teriyaki sauce from becoming too thick or too thin?
    Adjust the cornstarch slurry gradually while simmering the sauce. Cook over low heat and stir frequently to achieve a balanced, glossy consistency.
    In summary, making Teriyaki Chicken Panda Express-style at home involves preparing tender chicken pieces coated in a flavorful teriyaki sauce that balances sweetness and savory notes. The key components include marinating the chicken for enhanced taste, using a well-crafted sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and mirin or rice vinegar, and cooking the dish with the right technique to achieve the signature glossy finish and rich flavor. Replicating the texture and sauce consistency is essential to capture the authentic Panda Express experience.

    Key takeaways for successfully recreating this dish include the importance of fresh ingredients, precise seasoning, and controlled cooking times to avoid overcooking the chicken. Additionally, incorporating cornstarch or a similar thickening agent helps achieve the desired sauce thickness, while balancing sweetness and saltiness ensures the dish is neither too overpowering nor bland. Attention to detail in these areas results in a dish that closely mirrors the popular restaurant version.

    Ultimately, making Teriyaki Chicken Panda Express at home allows for customization according to personal taste preferences and dietary needs. With practice and adherence to the core principles of marination, sauce preparation, and cooking technique, home cooks can enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality teriyaki chicken dish that

    Author Profile

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    Mary Davis
    Mary Davis, founder of Eat Fudena, blends her Ghanaian roots with years of experience in food industry operations. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she worked closely with ingredient sourcing, nutrition, and food systems, gaining a deep understanding of how everyday cooking intersects with real-life questions. Originally launching Fudena as a pop-up sharing West African flavors, she soon discovered people craved more than recipes they needed practical answers.

    Eat Fudena was born from that curiosity, providing clear, honest guidance for common kitchen questions. Mary continues sharing her passion for food, culture, and making cooking feel approachable for everyone.