Learn How To Make Chicken Teriyaki Like Panda Express In Just 5 Easy Steps!

Craving the tantalizing flavors of Panda Express‘s Chicken Teriyaki? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will unveil the culinary secrets behind this beloved dish, empowering you to recreate its authentic taste in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients: Gathering the Essentials

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
• 1/4 cup sake (Japanese rice wine)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Marinade: Infusing Flavor

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and brown sugar.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Sauce: Creating the Teriyaki Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the leftover marinade from the chicken to a simmer.
3. Gradually whisk in the cornstarch mixture until the sauce thickens.

Cooking the Chicken: Achieving Tenderness

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Coating the Chicken: Embracing the Glaze

1. Reduce the heat to low.
2. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken.
3. Toss the chicken to coat evenly.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and caramelized.

Serving: The Grand Finale

1. Remove the chicken from the skillet and serve immediately over rice or noodles.
2. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Success: Enhancing Your Teriyaki Experience

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as this will result in a dry texture.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water and stir until desired consistency is achieved.
• Serve the chicken teriyaki with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Variations: Exploring Different Palates

• Spicy Chicken Teriyaki: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or chili powder to the marinade for a kick of heat.
• Honey Teriyaki Chicken: Substitute honey for brown sugar in the marinade and sauce for a sweeter flavor.
• Sesame Chicken Teriyaki: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken before cooking for an added layer of texture and flavor.

Conclusion: A Culinary Masterpiece at Your Fingertips

With careful attention to ingredients, technique, and presentation, you can now replicate the exquisite taste of Panda Express’s Chicken Teriyaki in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or an aspiring culinary enthusiast, this recipe will guide you to culinary success and impress your family and friends with your newfound skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw the chicken completely before marinating and cooking.

2. What do I do if I don’t have mirin or sake?
You can substitute dry white wine or chicken broth for mirin, and omit sake altogether.

3. How do I store leftover chicken teriyaki?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before using.

5. What sides pair well with chicken teriyaki?
Consider serving chicken teriyaki with rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.