Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful and juicy grilled chicken dish served with a sweet and tangy teriyaki glaze. This popular menu item features skinless boneless chicken thighs grilled to perfection and sliced into strips, then drizzled with a glossy teriyaki sauce that balances savory and sweet. It’s a protein-packed favorite that pairs wonderfully with rice or steamed vegetables.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken thighssoy saucebrown sugarsesame oilrice vinegarminced garlicminced gingercornstarchwater

directions

Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs and set them aside.

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger to create the teriyaki marinade.

Pour half of the marinade over the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor). Reserve the rest for the sauce.

Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil it.

Grill the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes per side or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Remove and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

In a small saucepan, heat the reserved marinade over medium heat.

Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Cook until it thickens into a glossy glaze.

Slice the grilled chicken into strips and drizzle with the teriyaki sauce before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 30 minutesGrilling and sauce prep: 20 minutesTotal time: 1 hour

Variations

Add a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical twist.

Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.

Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions over the top for garnish.

Serve with stir-fried vegetables or noodles instead of rice.

storage/reheating

Store leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What makes this teriyaki chicken similar to Panda Express?

The use of chicken thighs and a sweet-savory teriyaki glaze closely mirrors the texture and flavor of the restaurant version.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes for a grilled effect.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

Can I make the sauce spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for heat.

How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

Use a meat thermometer—chicken is done at an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed white or brown rice, chow mein, or mixed vegetables are all excellent choices.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce gives a fresher, more customizable flavor.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the sweet glaze makes it appealing to kids.

Can I cook the chicken in the oven?

Yes, baking or broiling are good alternatives if you don’t have a grill.

How do I make it more authentic?

Use mirin or sake in place of rice vinegar for a more traditional Japanese flavor.

Conclusion

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken is an easy and delicious way to bring a restaurant favorite into your home kitchen. Juicy grilled chicken paired with a rich teriyaki glaze makes for a satisfying meal that’s quick enough for weeknights yet flavorful enough to impress. Try it once, and it’ll likely become a go-to recipe in your dinner rotation.