Name: Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs; 2 tbsp canola oil; ⅔ cup sugar; ¼ cup soy sauce; 1 tsp lemon juice; ½ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp ground ginger; ⅓ cup water; 2 tbsp cornstarch

Indulge in the savory, sweet, and tangy flavors of this copycat Panda Express teriyaki chicken recipe. It's a perfect blend of tender chicken thighs with a rich teriyaki sauce that brings a burst of deliciousness in every bite. Serve it with brown rice and grilled pineapple for a delightful meal that rivals your favorite takeout.

Photos of Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

For this recipe, you might need to stock up on chicken thighs and ground ginger, which might not be staples in every household. Make sure you get soy sauce from the international aisle, and look for cornstarch in the baking section to ensure your sauce thickens perfectly.

Ingredients For Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

chicken thighs: Tender and juicy cut of poultry, perfect for grilling and absorbing the teriyaki flavors.

canola oil: Neutral-flavored oil used for grilling the chicken, ensuring it doesn't stick to the grill pan.

sugar: Adds sweetness to the teriyaki sauce, balancing the savory elements.

soy sauce: A salty, umami-rich condiment essential for teriyaki sauce.

lemon juice: Brings a subtle tanginess and freshness to the sauce.

garlic powder: Provides a quick and easy way to add garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic.

ground ginger: Adds a warm, spicy undertone typical of teriyaki sauce.

water: Helps to blend and cook the sauce ingredients evenly.

cornstarch: A thickening agent that ensures the teriyaki sauce has the right consistency.

One reader, Cecilius Gaines says:

This copycat Panda Express teriyaki chicken recipe is fantastic! The flavors are spot-on, and the sauce is perfectly thick and sweet. It’s easy to make and tastes just like the restaurant version. My family loved it, and we’ll definitely be making it again. Highly recommend!

Cecilius Gaines

Techniques Required for Making Teriyaki Chicken

How to grill chicken: Heat a grill pan on high, add oil to the chicken thighs, and grill for 3 to 5 minutes on each side until cooked through. How to make a sauce: Combine sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, ground ginger, and water in a pan, bring to a boil, then simmer. How to thicken a sauce: Mix cornstarch with water, add to the simmering sauce, and cook until thickened.

How To Make Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Chicken is tossed in the savory and tangy blend of lemon juice, soy sauce, and sugar for this teriyaki chicken that tastes just like a Chinese takeaway!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2lbschicken thighs
2tbspcanola oil
⅔cupsugar
¼cupsoy sauce,low sodium
1tsplemon juice
½tspgarlic powder
¼tspground ginger
⅓cupwater
2tbspcornstarch,mixed with 2 tbsp water

Instructions

In a bowl, add the canola oil to chicken thighs while waiting for the grill pan to heat up on high.
Add the chicken to the grill pan and grill on high for 3 to 5 minutes on each side.
While the chicken is cooking, add the sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, ground ginger, 1/3 cup water and bring to a boil on high heat.
Lower temperature to medium-low and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the water/cornstarch mixture then cook over low heat until just thickened.
Spoon the sauce over the chicken and serve with brown rice and grilled pineapple.

Nutrition

Calories: 358.86kcal
Fat: 22.39g
Saturated Fat: 5.40g
Trans Fat: 0.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.09g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.94g
Carbohydrates: 19.39g
Fiber: 0.11g
Sugar: 16.69g
Protein: 19.43g
Cholesterol: 111.13mg
Sodium: 530.46mg
Calcium: 11.33mg
Potassium: 270.10mg
Iron: 0.93mg
Vitamin A: 26.08µg
Vitamin C: 0.25mg

Technique Tip for Achieving Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

To ensure your chicken thighs are evenly cooked and have a beautiful char, make sure to preheat your grill pan on high heat for at least 5 minutes before adding the chicken. This will help achieve those perfect grill marks and lock in the juices.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Marinate in advance: Prepare the chicken thighs and marinate them overnight to enhance flavor and reduce prep time.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic instead of mincing fresh cloves.

Pre-mix sauce ingredients: Combine the sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, and ground ginger in a jar ahead of time.

Opt for instant rice: Use instant brown rice to cut down on cooking time.

Grill in batches: If your grill pan is small, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are leaner and will provide a slightly different texture but can still work well in the recipe.
canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil has a similar smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a bit of depth to the flavor, though it will slightly alter the consistency.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that provides a similar umami flavor.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a good replacement.
garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic will provide a more robust and aromatic flavor, though you may need to adjust the quantity.
ground ginger - Substitute with fresh ginger: Fresh ginger offers a more intense and aromatic flavor, but you may need to use a bit more to match the potency of ground ginger.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more depth and richness to the sauce compared to plain water.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder works similarly to cornstarch as a thickening agent and is a good alternative for those avoiding corn products.

Best Way to Present Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken thighs in delicate, bite-sized pieces to highlight the tenderness and flavor. This allows the judges to savor each bite without overwhelming their palate.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with thin slices of grilled pineapple and a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions to add a burst of color and freshness.
Layer flavors: Drizzle the teriyaki sauce artistically over the chicken, creating a visually appealing pattern. Ensure the sauce is glossy and thickened to the perfect consistency.
Add texture: Include a small portion of brown rice molded into a neat, compact shape using a ring mold. This adds a contrasting texture and complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
Highlight ingredients: Place a few whole grilled pineapple rings on the side, slightly charred to enhance their natural sweetness and provide a visual contrast to the savory chicken.
Use elegant plating: Arrange the components on a pristine white plate to make the colors pop. Use negative space strategically to draw attention to the main elements of the dish.
Incorporate height: Stack the chicken pieces slightly to create a sense of height and dimension on the plate, making the presentation more dynamic and appealing.
Finish with a glaze: Lightly brush the chicken with a final coat of teriyaki sauce just before serving to ensure it glistens and looks appetizing.

Essential Tools for Making Teriyaki Chicken at Home

Grill pan: A flat pan with raised ridges used to grill the chicken thighs, giving them a nice char and grill marks.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used to combine the chicken thighs with canola oil before grilling.
Tongs: A tool used to flip the chicken thighs on the grill pan to ensure even cooking on both sides.
Saucepan: A small pot used to prepare the teriyaki sauce by combining sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, ground ginger, and water.
Whisk: A utensil used to mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, which is then added to the sauce to thicken it.
Measuring cups: Tools used to measure out the sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, and water accurately.
Measuring spoons: Tools used to measure out the garlic powder, ground ginger, and cornstarch accurately.
Spoon: A utensil used to spoon the thickened teriyaki sauce over the grilled chicken.
Serving plate: A plate used to serve the finished teriyaki chicken with brown rice and grilled pineapple.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Teriyaki Chicken

Allow the teriyaki chicken to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
To freeze the teriyaki chicken:
- Divide the cooled chicken into portion-sized freezer bags or airtight containers.
- If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the bags or containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the sealed bags or containers in the freezer, where they will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen teriyaki chicken:
- Thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Place the thawed chicken in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until heated through.
If you have leftover teriyaki sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can use it to baste the reheated chicken or as a sauce for other dishes.

How To Reheat Leftover Teriyaki Chicken

The best way to reheat leftover teriyaki chicken is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
Another option is to reheat the chicken in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a little bit of water or chicken broth to the pan to help keep the chicken moist. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is warmed through.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the chicken in the microwave. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overcook it, as this can make the chicken tough and rubbery.
For best results, let the leftover teriyaki chicken come to room temperature before reheating. This will help it reheat more evenly and prevent it from drying out.
If the sauce has thickened up in the fridge, you can thin it out with a little bit of water or chicken broth before reheating. This will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover teriyaki chicken, try garnishing it with some fresh green onions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Random Fact About Teriyaki Chicken

A fun fact about this teriyaki chicken recipe is that it combines the sweet and savory flavors typical of Japanese cuisine with a quick and easy preparation method, making it a popular choice for homemade Asian-inspired meals.

Is Making Teriyaki Chicken at Home Economical?

This teriyaki chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken thighs, soy sauce, and sugar, are relatively inexpensive and commonly found in most kitchens. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $10-$12 USD. Considering the flavor and satisfaction it brings, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its cost-effectiveness and deliciousness.

Is This Teriyaki Chicken Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The copycat Panda Express teriyaki chicken recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few key ingredients:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of sugar (⅔ cup), which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed regularly.
Soy sauce is high in sodium, and the recipe uses ¼ cup, which may be a concern for those watching their salt intake.
The use of canola oil for cooking the chicken may not be the healthiest choice, as it is a refined oil that can be inflammatory when consumed in large amounts.

However, the recipe does include some healthier elements, such as using chicken thighs (a good source of protein) and serving the dish with brown rice and grilled pineapple, which can provide additional nutrients and fiber.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of sugar used in the sauce, or opt for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in smaller quantities.
Use low-sodium soy sauce to decrease the overall salt content of the dish.
Replace the canola oil with a healthier cooking oil, such as avocado oil or coconut oil, which are more stable at high temperatures and offer better nutritional profiles.
Increase the amount of vegetables served alongside the chicken, such as steamed broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers, to boost the overall nutrient content of the meal.
Opt for skinless chicken thighs or replace them with chicken breasts to reduce the fat content of the dish.

Editor's Thoughts on This Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

This recipe captures the essence of Panda Express's teriyaki chicken with a straightforward approach. The balance of sweet and savory flavors from the sugar and soy sauce, combined with the subtle hints of garlic and ginger, creates a delightful glaze. Grilling the chicken thighs adds a smoky depth, enhancing the overall taste. Serving it with brown rice and grilled pineapple introduces a refreshing contrast. However, consider marinating the chicken for a deeper flavor infusion. Overall, it's a commendable effort for a homemade version of a beloved takeout dish.

Enhance Your Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Stir-Fried Vegetables: Stir-Fried Vegetables: Imagine a vibrant medley of broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas sautéed in a light soy sauce glaze. This dish brings a burst of color and crunch to your plate, perfectly complementing the savory teriyaki chicken.

Miso Soup: Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup with tofu, seaweed, and scallions adds a comforting and umami-rich start to your meal. The subtle flavors of the soup balance the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.

Asian Slaw: Asian Slaw: Crisp and refreshing, this slaw features shredded cabbage, carrots, and radishes tossed in a tangy rice vinegar dressing. The crunch and acidity provide a delightful contrast to the tender chicken thighs.

Sesame Noodles: Sesame Noodles: A bowl of noodles tossed in a nutty sesame sauce with a sprinkle of scallions and sesame seeds. These noodles are a satisfying and flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with the teriyaki chicken.

Mango Sticky Rice: Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, indulge in mango sticky rice. The creamy coconut milk infused sticky rice topped with fresh, juicy mango slices creates a delightful dessert that complements the savory main course.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Teriyaki Chicken

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of honey and garlic with these succulent chicken thighs. Perfectly caramelized and tender, this dish pairs wonderfully with steamed broccoli and fluffy white rice.

Grilled Pineapple Chicken: Experience a tropical twist with this grilled pineapple chicken. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a tangy pineapple sauce and grilled to perfection. Serve with a side of coconut rice and a fresh mango salsa for a complete island-inspired meal.

Spicy Szechuan Chicken: Turn up the heat with this spicy Szechuan chicken. Infused with bold Szechuan peppercorns and a fiery chili sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your craving for spice. Complement it with stir-fried bok choy and jasmine rice.

Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: Brighten up your meal with these lemon herb chicken skewers. Marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, these skewers are grilled to juicy perfection. Pair them with a Greek salad and pita bread for a Mediterranean feast.

Sweet and Sour Chicken: Enjoy the classic combination of sweet and tangy with this sweet and sour chicken. Crispy chicken pieces are coated in a vibrant sweet and sour sauce and served with bell peppers and pineapple chunks. Serve over a bed of rice noodles for a delightful meal.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked to perfection, creating a delightful contrast between the creamy filling and the earthy mushroom base. Serve these as a sophisticated starter that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Crisp toasted baguette slices are topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, all drizzled with a touch of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the juicy, flavorful topping makes this bruschetta a perfect start to any meal, offering a burst of freshness and a hint of Mediterranean flair.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate cake that oozes warm, gooey chocolate with every bite. Pair this indulgent treat with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Envision a lemon meringue pie with a perfectly balanced tart lemon filling and a cloud-like meringue topping. The crust is buttery and flaky, providing the ideal base for the vibrant lemon curd. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest to enhance the citrus notes. A few fresh berries on the side add a pop of color and a burst of flavor.

Why trust this Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe:

This recipe captures the authentic flavors of Panda Express teriyaki chicken with simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger. The chicken thighs are grilled to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite every time. The homemade teriyaki sauce is both sweet and savory, made with sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of cornstarch for the perfect consistency. Serve it with brown rice and grilled pineapple for a complete meal that rivals the original. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and delicious results.

Want to share your experience with this Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work just fine. Just keep in mind that they might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a bit more cornstarch to the water/cornstarch mixture. Just be sure to mix it well to avoid lumps.

Can I use a regular frying pan instead of a grill pan?

Yes, you can use a regular frying pan. You might not get the same grill marks, but the chicken will still taste great.

Is there a substitute for canola oil?

You can use any neutral oil like vegetable oil or even olive oil. Just avoid oils with strong flavors that might overpower the dish.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the microwave or on the stove before serving.