Easy Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a crowd favorite, combining the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the smoky, charred flavor of perfectly grilled chicken. Panda Express has popularized this dish, making it a go-to choice for people looking for a flavorful yet relatively healthy meal. In this article, we’ll explore the origins, ingredients, and preparation techniques that make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken special, including a copycat recipe you can recreate at home

What is Grilled Teriyaki Chicken?

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a fusion dish that combines Japanese teriyaki flavors with the grilling techniques more commonly found in American cuisine. This dish features marinated chicken grilled to perfection, then glazed with a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce. It’s a delicious, protein-packed meal that can be paired with rice, vegetables, or noodles.

Why Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a Popular Choice

There are a few reasons why Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is such a popular dish:

• Healthy Option: Grilling keeps the chicken lean and juicy without adding extra fat.
• Flavorful: The combination of sweet and savory flavors appeals to a broad audience.
• Versatile: It can be served with a variety of sides, from vegetables to noodles, making it a versatile dish for different meal types.

Origins of Teriyaki Chicken

The term “teriyaki” comes from the Japanese words “teri,” meaning luster or shine, and “yaki,” which means grilling or broiling. Teriyaki sauce was traditionally used to glaze fish, but its use expanded to chicken and other meats as the flavor gained popularity. Today, teriyaki dishes are enjoyed worldwide, especially in fusion dishes like Panda Express’s Grilled Teriyaki Chicken.

Panda Express Version of Teriyaki Chicken

Panda Express has made teriyaki chicken more accessible, serving it with a rich, thick sauce that has a hint of sweetness and umami. The chicken is grilled to perfection, sliced, and generously coated with teriyaki sauce. It’s one of the healthier options on their menu, often paired with steamed vegetables or rice.

• Preparation Time
  15 minutes
• Marinating Time
  30min to4hours
• Cooking Time
  20 minutes
• Serves
  6 adults
• Difficulty
  Easy

Cooking Methods: Grilling vs. Pan-Seared vs. Oven-Baked

While grilling is the most authentic method, you can also pan-sear or oven-bake the chicken if you don’t have a grill. Pan-searing gives a crispy exterior, while baking in the oven (at 375°F for 25 minutes) ensures tenderness.

Tips for Achieving Authentic Panda Express Flavor

• Use dark soy sauce for a deeper flavor.
• Marinate overnight for the most flavor.
• Use a grill pan indoors to mimic outdoor grilling.

Nutritional Information of Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

On average, a serving of grilled teriyaki chicken provides:

• Calories: 300-400
• Protein: 25-30g
• Carbs: 20-30g
• Fat: 10-15g

Health Benefits of Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken is a lean protein source that promotes muscle growth and repair. Teriyaki sauce, in moderation, provides antioxidants from ginger and garlic, contributing to a balanced meal.

Teriyaki Sauce Variations: Sweet, Spicy, and More

Teriyaki sauce can be customized to suit different tastes:

• Add chili flakes for heat.
• Use pineapple juice for a tropical sweetness.
• Add a dash of sriracha

Pairing Ideas: Best Sides for Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Here are some great sides:

• Steamed Rice: A classic choice to soak up the teriyaki sauce.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Adds fiber and crunch.
• Asian Noodles: Complements the flavors of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

• Over-marinating: The chicken can become too salty.
• High Heat Grilling: This can burn the sauce and dry out the chicken.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat by pan-searing or microwaving on medium power to maintain the chicken’s moisture.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s easy to make at home. With the right ingredients and grilling techniques, you can recreate the Panda Express experience in your kitchen. Pair it with your favorite sides for a delicious meal the whole family will enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, but chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful.

Q: Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free?
A: Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, but you can use tamari for a gluten-free option.

Q: Can I freeze grilled teriyaki chicken?
A: Yes, grilled teriyaki chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Panda Express

This Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe, inspired by Panda Express, features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then grilled to perfection. It's quick, easy, and perfect for a family meal.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Marinating TIme 1 hour hr

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 People

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

• Chicken Thighs, boneless, skin-on – 6 to 8 pieces
• Soy Sauce – ½ cup
• Mirin – ¼ cup
• Brown Sugar – 2 tbsp
• Honey – 2 tbsp
• Garlic ,minced – 2 cloves
• Ginger(grated) – 1 tsp
• Sesame Oil – 1 tsp
• Cornstarch – 1 tbsp (optional), for thickening sauce
• Water – ¼ cup
• Green Onions, optional, for thickening sauce, sliced – for garnish
• Sesame Seeds – for garnish

Instructions

 

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Stir well and let the mixture come to a boil.
• Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then slowly whisk into the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes until it thickens.
• Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Marinate the Chicken:

• Place the chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the cooled teriyaki sauce over the chicken and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (overnight is even better for more flavor).

Grill the Chicken:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess.
• Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Baste the chicken with extra teriyaki sauce while grilling for a glossy, flavorful finish.

Serve:

• Slice the grilled teriyaki chicken and drizzle with the remaining teriyaki sauce.
• Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.