Quick & Easy Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe – Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

Here’s Why You’ll Love This Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Hey there, busy cooks! Craving that iconic, sweet and savory taste of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken but want to skip the takeout and whip it up right in your own cozy kitchen? You’re absolutely in the right place! This Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is your new best friend for creating a restaurant-quality dish in just minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is precious but deliciousness is non-negotiable.

Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a luscious, homemade teriyaki sauce that’s bursting with flavor – sweet, tangy, and just a hint of ginger and garlic. Forget about complicated recipes and long ingredient lists. This recipe is all about simplicity and speed, using everyday ingredients to bring that familiar Panda Express magic straight to your dinner table. Get ready to impress your family (and yourself!) with how easy and incredibly satisfying a homemade teriyaki chicken dinner can be. Let’s get cooking and make tonight a teriyaki night to remember! If you love easy chicken recipes like this, you might also enjoy another delicious and easy chicken recipe for your next weeknight dinner.

Printable Recipe Card: Your Easy Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Guide!

Quick & Easy Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Craving Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken? Skip takeout and make this quick & easy homemade version! Juicy chicken in a delicious teriyaki glaze, ready in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, asian-inspired

Servings 4 people

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Large Skillet or Wok For searing chicken and making sauce
• 1 Medium Bowl For marinating chicken
• 1 Small Bowl For whisking teriyaki sauce
• 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons For accurate ingredient measurement

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup soy sauce low sodium recommended
• 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 head broccoli cut into florets
• to garnish sesame seeds optional
• to serve cooked rice

Instructions

 

• In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Marinate for at least 15-20 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator.
• Prepare broccoli florets for steaming, roasting, or blanching.
• Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken in a single layer (reserving marinade). Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
• In a small bowl, whisk together reserved marinade, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water until cornstarch is dissolved.
• Pour teriyaki sauce mixture into the skillet with chicken. Simmer, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens and glazes the chicken.
• Steam or stir-fry broccoli until tender-crisp and vibrant green.
• Gently fold cooked broccoli into skillet with teriyaki chicken. Serve immediately over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Ingredient Swaps: Substitute chicken breasts for thighs, coconut aminos for soy sauce, or maple syrup for honey.

Make it Budget-Friendly: Buy chicken in bulk, use frozen broccoli, and check for sales on sauces.

Pro-Tips: Marinate chicken for maximum flavor, don’t overcrowd the pan when searing, simmer sauce until perfectly thickened, and taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.

Keyword easy chicken recipe, homemade teriyaki chicken, panda express, takeout fakeout, teriyaki chicken, weeknight dinner

Let’s Gather Our Ingredients for This Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Full Ingredient List

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice, for serving

Smart Ingredient Swaps and Easy Substitutions

• Chicken Breast for Thighs: Prefer white meat? No problem! You can easily substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just be mindful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster. Reduce cooking time slightly and ensure they are cooked through.
• Coconut Aminos for Soy Sauce: If you’re watching your sodium intake or avoiding soy, coconut aminos are a fantastic alternative. They offer a similar savory flavor with less sodium and are soy-free. The taste is slightly sweeter, so you might want to adjust the brown sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
• Maple Syrup for Honey: Out of honey or prefer a vegan option? Maple syrup works beautifully as a substitute for honey in teriyaki sauce. It adds a lovely depth of flavor and sweetness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Budget-Friendly Tips and Finding Ingredients

• Buy Chicken in Bulk: Chicken thighs are often more budget-friendly than breasts, and buying in larger quantities can save you money. You can freeze any extra portions for future meals.
• Frozen Broccoli is Your Friend: Fresh broccoli is wonderful, but frozen broccoli florets are a fantastic, cost-effective, and convenient alternative. They steam up quickly and are just as nutritious.
• Pantry Staples First: You likely already have many of these ingredients in your pantry! Check your soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and oil supply first to minimize your grocery list.
• Look for Sales on Sauces: Keep an eye out for sales on soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil at your local grocery store. Stocking up when they are on sale can save you money in the long run.
• DIY Ginger and Garlic Paste: Instead of buying pre-minced ginger and garlic, purchase fresh ginger and garlic in bulk. You can easily make a large batch of ginger-garlic paste and store it in the fridge for quick use in many recipes throughout the week.

Time to Cook! Your Step-by-Step Guide for Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

1. Get Your Chicken Marinating: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Tip: Marinating the chicken for at least 15-20 minutes (or even longer, up to a few hours in the fridge) will make it extra flavorful and tender. The longer it marinates, the deeper the flavors will penetrate!
2. Prep Your Broccoli: While the chicken is marinating, get your broccoli florets ready. You can steam them, roast them, or even quickly blanch them – whichever method you prefer. We’ll add them to the dish later, so they stay bright green and crisp-tender.
3. Sear the Chicken to Perfection: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the marinated chicken (reserving the marinade!) in a single layer. Pro-Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan! Work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken sears properly and gets a nice golden-brown color. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through. If you’re looking for other chicken dishes that involve a delicious crust, be sure to check out our Parmesan crusted chicken recipe.
4. Whisk Up the Teriyaki Magic: In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved marinade, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This cornstarch slurry is the secret to a perfectly thickened, glossy teriyaki sauce.
5. Create the Luscious Teriyaki Sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture into the skillet with the cooked chicken. Bring it to a simmer, stirring constantly, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened beautifully and coats the chicken in a delicious glaze. Important: Keep stirring to prevent the sauce from sticking or burning and to ensure it thickens evenly.
6. Steam or Stir-Fry the Broccoli: While the sauce is thickening, quickly steam or stir-fry your broccoli until it’s tender-crisp and vibrant green. If steaming, it usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If stir-frying, add a touch more sesame oil to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes, tossing frequently.
7. Combine and Serve: Gently fold the cooked broccoli into the skillet with the teriyaki chicken, ensuring it’s nicely coated in the sauce. Serve immediately over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Serving Suggestion: A side of steamed white rice is classic, but brown rice or quinoa also work wonderfully for a healthier twist!
8. Enjoy Every Bite! Take a moment to appreciate the wonderful aroma and flavors you’ve just created. Serve hot and watch everyone devour this homemade Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken!

Our Best Tips & Tricks for a Perfect Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Don’t rush the marinating process! Even 30 minutes makes a difference, but longer marinating time (up to 2-3 hours in the fridge) will result in even more flavorful and tender chicken.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, causing the chicken to steam instead of sear, which prevents it from getting that desirable golden-brown crust. Cook in batches if needed.
• Simmer Sauce to Perfection: Allow the teriyaki sauce to simmer gently and thicken properly. This step is crucial for achieving that signature glossy, rich sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken. Be patient and keep stirring!
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, always taste the teriyaki sauce and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Need it sweeter? Add a touch more honey or brown sugar. Want a bit more tang? A splash of rice vinegar will do the trick.
• Fresh Ginger and Garlic are Key: While ground ginger and garlic powder can work in a pinch, fresh ginger and garlic make a world of difference in the flavor of teriyaki sauce. They provide a bright, aromatic depth that elevates the dish.
• Broccoli Tip: Keep it Crisp-Tender: Nobody likes mushy broccoli! Whether you steam or stir-fry it, aim for crisp-tender broccoli that still has a bit of bite and retains its vibrant green color.

What to Serve with Your Delicious Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken: Perfect Pairings

• Classic Rice: Fluffy steamed white rice is the quintessential pairing for teriyaki chicken. It soaks up the delicious sauce and provides a perfect neutral base. Brown rice or quinoa are also excellent, healthier alternatives.
• Noodles: For a change of pace, serve your teriyaki chicken over a bed of stir-fried noodles. Lo mein or yakisoba noodles would be fantastic choices.
• Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls: Start your meal with some crispy spring rolls or egg rolls for a complete takeout-inspired experience.
• Steamed Vegetables: Round out your meal with additional steamed vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or bok choy for extra nutrients and color.
• Simple Salad: A light and refreshing side salad with a ginger or sesame dressing can provide a lovely contrast to the richness of the teriyaki chicken.
• Drinks: Pair your Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken with a refreshing glass of iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime is a great choice. If you’re in the mood for another delicious and easy chicken recipe that offers a unique flavor profile, why not explore chicken with peanut butter?

How to Store and Reheat Your Delicious Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken stores beautifully and reheats like a dream, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying the next day.

• Storing: Allow the teriyaki chicken and broccoli to cool completely before storing. Transfer them to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator. For best quality, consume within 3-4 days.
• Reheating:
  • Microwave: The quickest method! Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and reheat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
  • Skillet: For best results and to maintain the texture of the chicken, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to prevent drying out and help to re-glaze the sauce. Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
  • Oven (Less Recommended): While you can reheat in the oven, it’s not ideal as it can dry out the chicken and broccoli. If you choose this method, cover the dish with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, checking periodically.

Tip for Reheating: If you find the sauce has thickened too much upon reheating, add a teaspoon or two of water or chicken broth to loosen it up and restore its glossy consistency. For another great recipe featuring chicken and a flavorful sauce that reheats well, consider our Pollo a la Crema recipe.

Your Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken FAQ: Simple Answers for Confident Cooking

• Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
  • Absolutely! Chicken breast works great too. Just keep in mind that chicken breast tends to cook faster and can dry out more easily than thighs. Reduce the cooking time slightly and ensure you don’t overcook it.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  • Yes, you can! You can prepare the teriyaki chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to cook the broccoli fresh or steam it just before serving. You can also marinate the chicken in advance and cook it closer to mealtime.
• Can I add other vegetables?
  • Definitely! Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, onions, snap peas, carrots, and zucchini all work wonderfully. Add them to the skillet along with the broccoli or stir-fry them separately and combine at the end.
• Is this recipe spicy?
  • No, this Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken recipe is not spicy. It’s designed to be sweet and savory. However, if you like a little heat, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or sauce, or serve it with a side of sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
• Can I make this gluten-free?
  • Yes, to make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which are gluten-free alternatives. Double-check all your other ingredients to ensure they are also gluten-free if needed.

Time to Savor Your Delicious Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken and Share the Joy

Congratulations, you’ve just created a fantastic homemade version of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! We hope you enjoy every savory bite and the satisfaction of making this delicious dish right in your own kitchen.

Now it’s your turn! Rate this recipe below, share your photos on social media using #FingerLickingRecipes, and let us know in the comments how it turned out. We love hearing from our amazing community of home cooks! Join us for more simple, delicious recipes and cooking tips on Instagram and Pinterest. Happy cooking!