How To Make Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Wondering what’s in Panda Express Grilled Teriyaki Chicken? Get nutrition tips, taste reviews, and how to enjoy it better. Discover more now!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (the key to Panda Express’s tender consistency)
- ½ cups of soy sauce opt for low-sodium for a healthier choice
- ¼ cup brown sugar creates that signature caramelization
- 2 tablespoons rice wine or mirin adds authentic depth
- 2 cloves garlic minced (aromatic foundation)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated (bright, zesty kick)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil nutty richness
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch for glossy sauce consistency
- 2 tablespoons honey balances salty-sweet profile
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar subtle tang
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional heat
Instructions
- ✅ Step 1: Create the Perfect Marinade In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until sugar completely dissolves. This marinade base is the secret behind authentic panda express grilled teriyaki chicken flavor. The mixture should appear smooth and glossy, with no sugar granules visible. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed – the marinade should balance salty and sweet notes perfectly.✅ Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken Like a Pro Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels – moisture prevents proper searing. With a sharp knife, lightly score the chicken in a crosshatch design, cutting approximately 1/8 inch deep. This technique allows the panda express grilled teriyaki chicken marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Trim any excess fat, leaving just enough for moisture and flavor.✅ Step 3: Marinate for Maximum Flavor Place scored chicken in a large resealable bag or shallow dish, then pour marinade over chicken, ensuring all pieces are completely coated. Massage gently to distribute marinade evenly. Seal and refrigerate for minimum 30 minutes, but optimal results come from 2-hour marination. This timing creates the signature panda express grilled teriyaki chicken taste without compromising texture.✅ Step 4: Achieve Perfect Grill Temperature Preheat your grill pan over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes, or preheat outdoor grill to 400°F. The surface should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking – this ensures your panda express grilled teriyaki chicken develops beautiful grill marks without tearing.✅ Step 5: Smart Marinade Management Before removing chicken from marinade, set aside 1/4 cup of unused marinade in a clean bowl for basting. Never reuse marinade that touched raw chicken. Discard the remaining marinade safely. This reserved portion will help create the glossy, caramelized exterior that makes panda express grilled teriyaki chicken so appealing.✅ Step 6: Master the Grilling Technique Place marinated chicken on hot grill, leaving space between pieces for even cooking. Cook 6-7 minutes per side without moving, allowing proper grill marks to develop. Baste with reserved marinade every 2 minutes using a clean brush, creating layers of flavor and that signature glossy finish. The chicken should sizzle consistently but not burn.✅ Step 7: Ensure Perfect Doneness Check internal temperature using a meat thermometer – chicken is safe at 165°F. The juices should run clear, and no pink should remain. Avoid overcooking, which creates dry, tough texture contrary to the tender restaurant-style result you want.✅ Step 8: Prepare the Signature Teriyaki Sauce While chicken rests, create the glossy finishing sauce that elevates your dish to restaurant quality. In a small saucepan, combine the reserved 1/4 cup marinade with 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. This panda express chicken teriyaki sauce should coat the back of a spoon and have a beautiful amber color. Remove from heat and set aside for drizzling over the finished chicken.✅ Step 9: Rest and Slice for Optimal Results Transfer cooked chicken to a clean cutting board and tent with foil. Rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Slice against the grain in 1/2-inch thick pieces for the most tender texture and professional presentation.
Notes
Per Serving (Based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 14g
- Sodium: 890mg (30% less than restaurant version)
- Sugar: 11g
- Fiber: 0g