Make Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken at Home – Better Than Takeout!

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is one of the most beloved dishes from the popular Chinese-American fast-food chain. Known for its juicy, grilled chicken thighs smothered in a rich, sweet, and savory teriyaki sauce, this dish is a fan favorite for good reason. But what if you could make it even better—right in your own kitchen?

This homemade copycat recipe brings you the authentic flavors of Panda Express with fresh, simple ingredients and no unnecessary additives. The chicken is perfectly marinated, grilled (or pan-seared), and coated in a glossy teriyaki glaze that rivals the restaurant version. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to make in just 30 minutes—faster than waiting for takeout!

In this guide, you’ll learn how to:

• Make the perfect teriyaki sauce with the right balance of sweet and savory flavors
• Choose the best chicken cuts for tender and juicy results
• Achieve the signature caramelized glaze that makes this dish irresistible
• Serve it with the best side dishes for a complete Asian-inspired meal

Let’s dive into this better-than-takeout Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe and bring the flavors of your favorite fast-food chain straight to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

If you’re a fan of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, you’re going to love this homemade version even more! It has all the flavors you crave—juicy grilled chicken, a glossy sweet-and-savory teriyaki glaze, and that signature caramelized finish. The best part? You can make it fresh, with wholesome ingredients, in just 30 minutes.

Tastes Just Like the Restaurant Version

One of the biggest concerns with copycat recipes is whether they truly capture the authentic flavor of the original. This recipe delivers! By using the right balance of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic, you get that deep umami flavor with the perfect amount of sweetness—just like the Panda Express version.

• Rich, glossy teriyaki glaze that coats the chicken beautifully
• Juicy and tender chicken thighs, just like in the restaurant
• Grilled (or pan-seared) to perfection for that slight char and smoky flavor

Unlike store-bought teriyaki sauces, which can be too sweet or too salty, this homemade teriyaki sauce is well-balanced and fresh, ensuring a restaurant-quality taste right at home.

Easy and Quick to Make at Home

Why wait in line or pay for takeout when you can whip up this quick and easy teriyaki chicken in under 30 minutes? Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe fits into any schedule.

• Minimal prep time – Just marinate, cook, and coat with sauce
• One-pan cooking – No complicated steps or special equipment needed
• Cooks in 10-15 minutes – Faster than waiting for takeout!

You can grill, pan-sear, or even air-fry the chicken, depending on your preference. Plus, the teriyaki sauce thickens in minutes, making it one of the easiest restaurant-style dishes to recreate at home.

Uses Simple, Natural Ingredients

Unlike store-bought versions that may contain preservatives and artificial flavors, this homemade Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe uses fresh, natural ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

Key Ingredients for an Authentic Taste:

• Chicken Thighs – Tender, juicy, and full of flavor (or substitute chicken breasts for a leaner option)
• Soy Sauce – The foundation of the umami-rich teriyaki sauce
• Brown Sugar & Honey – For the perfect balance of sweetness
• Garlic & Ginger – Essential aromatics that bring depth of flavor
• Rice Vinegar – Adds a hint of tanginess to balance the sauce
• Cornstarch Slurry – Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency

Since you control the ingredients, you can adjust the sweetness, saltiness, or thickness of the sauce to match your taste preferences. Plus, no artificial additives—just pure, homemade goodness!

Ingredients for the Perfect Homemade Teriyaki Chicken

Creating a Panda Express-style Teriyaki Chicken at home starts with choosing the right chicken, sauce ingredients, and garnishes. This section breaks down everything you need for an authentic, restaurant-quality flavor.

Main Ingredients for the Chicken

For the best results, choosing the right cut of chicken is key. Panda Express uses boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but you can also opt for chicken breasts based on your preference.

Best Chicken Cuts to Use (Thighs vs. Breasts)

Both chicken thighs and chicken breasts work for this recipe, but they have distinct differences:

Chicken Cut	Pros	Cons
Chicken Thighs (Recommended!)	More flavorful, juicy, and tender	Slightly higher fat content
Chicken Breasts	Leaner, lower in fat	Can be drier if overcooked

✔️ For an authentic Panda Express taste, go with chicken thighs—they stay juicy even when grilled or pan-seared.
✔️ If using chicken breasts, marinate them longer and avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients

The secret to Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken is the rich, glossy, and perfectly balanced sauce. It should be sweet, salty, and umami-rich with a slight tanginess.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients

• Soy Sauce – The base of the sauce, adding deep umami flavor
• Brown Sugar & Honey – For the signature sweetness and caramelization
• Garlic & Ginger – Boosts flavor with an aromatic depth
• Rice Vinegar or Mirin – Adds a slight tang and balances the sweetness
• Sesame Oil – Brings a nutty, rich undertone
• Cornstarch Slurry (Cornstarch + Water) – Helps thicken the sauce for that signature glaze

Secret to the Perfect Sweet and Savory Glaze

The key to a rich, glossy teriyaki glaze is in how you cook it:

• Simmer, Don’t Boil – Cooking the sauce over medium heat allows the sugars to caramelize without burning.
• Use a Cornstarch Slurry – This ensures the sauce thickens properly without clumping.
• Balance the Sweetness & Saltiness – If the sauce is too salty, add a little more honey; if it’s too sweet, a splash of soy sauce or rice vinegar will fix it.

This technique gives you that sticky, restaurant-quality teriyaki glaze that coats the chicken beautifully!

Garnishes and Serving Suggestions

While Panda Express keeps it simple with just sliced teriyaki chicken over rice, you can take it up a notch with flavorful garnishes and perfect side dishes.

Best Garnishes for Teriyaki Chicken

• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Provides a satisfying nutty texture.
• Sliced Green Onions – Brings a fresh, mild onion flavor
• Thinly Sliced Red Chilies – For a spicy kick (optional)
• Pickled Ginger – A Japanese-inspired touch for extra zing

What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken

• Steamed White or Brown Rice – Classic pairing that soaks up the sauce
• Fried Rice or Garlic Noodles – For a more indulgent meal
• Steamed Broccoli, Carrots, or Snap Peas – Light, fresh, and balances the dish
• Asian Slaw or Cucumber Salad – A crisp, refreshing contrast to the sticky teriyaki glaze

Instructional Manual: How to Prepare Teriyaki Chicken Like Panda Express

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to put everything together and recreate the Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken experience in your own kitchen. Follow these simple steps to achieve restaurant-quality chicken with that signature sweet and savory glaze.

Marinating the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken is an essential step to infuse it with the delicious teriyaki flavor. This process ensures that the meat is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

• Cut the Chicken – Whether you use chicken thighs or breasts, cut them into bite-sized pieces or strips to allow for even marination and quick cooking.
• Make the Marinade – Combine soy sauce, ginger, garlic, honey, and rice vinegar in a bowl, adjusting to taste. You can add a little sesame oil for extra flavor.
• Marinate for at Least 30 Minutes – Ideally, marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours for maximum flavor, but 30 minutes will still deliver great results. Ensure the chicken is well-coated.
• Refrigerate – Marinating the chicken in the fridge ensures the meat absorbs the flavors and stays fresh. To prevent the growth of bacteria, do not marinate at room temperature.

Grilling vs. Pan-Searing: Cooking Methods Compared

While grilling is a popular method for Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, pan-searing works just as well for an easier, quicker version. Here’s a breakdown of both cooking methods:

Method	Pros	Cons
Grilling	Adds smoky flavor, crispy texture	Takes longer and requires outdoor space
Pan-Searing	Quick, convenient, great for indoor cooking	Less smoky flavor, requires more oil

✔️ Grilling – If you want that classic smoky flavor, grill your marinated chicken over medium-high heat for about 4-6 minutes per side. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as the sugar in the marinade can char quickly.
✔️ Pan-Searing – Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. If you like crispy edges, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Both methods produce juicy, flavorful chicken, but grilling adds an extra layer of flavor, while pan-searing is faster and more convenient for busy weeknights.

Thickening the Teriyaki Sauce for a Sticky Glaze

The teriyaki sauce is what really makes this dish stand out. The right consistency is key for that sticky, shiny glaze that clings to the chicken perfectly.

• Combine the Sauce Ingredients – In a small saucepan, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar. Heat the sauce until it begins to simmer softly.
• Thicken the Sauce – To thicken, combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl, creating a cornstarch slurry. Gently pour the slurry into the sauce while it simmers, making sure to stir consistently. Continue simmering for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky consistency.
• Adjust the Consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more water or soy sauce. If it’s too thin, simmer a little longer or add a bit more cornstarch slurry. The goal is a syrupy consistency that will coat the chicken beautifully.

Once your sauce has reached the perfect thickness, pour it over the cooked chicken and toss to coat evenly. The result is a glossy, sticky glaze that’s mouthwatering and full of flavor.

Expert Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken

While making Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken at home is fairly straightforward, there are a few pro tips that can help you elevate this dish to restaurant-quality. In this section, we’ll go over some expert techniques to ensure your chicken is juicy, your glaze is perfectly caramelized, and you can avoid any common cooking mistakes.

How to Achieve the Perfect Caramelized Glaze

The caramelized glaze is one of the standout features of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, and achieving that perfect, glossy finish is easier than you might think. Here’s how to do it right:

• Cook the Sauce at Medium Heat – To achieve a deep caramelization, it’s essential to cook the teriyaki sauce over medium heat. High heat can cause the sugar to burn too quickly, while low heat won’t allow the sauce to thicken properly.
• Avoid Stirring Too Much – Once the sauce starts to simmer, don’t stir too often. Let it reduce naturally to allow the sugars to caramelize. Stir only occasionally to prevent burning or sticking.
• Watch for the Right Color and Consistency – The sauce should turn a deep amber color as it thickens, indicating that the sugars have caramelized. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, but not so thick that it becomes syrupy.
• Use the Right Pan – A heavy-bottomed saucepan works best for even heat distribution and prevents burning, allowing for a smooth caramelization process.

This technique will give your chicken that shiny, sticky, restaurant-quality glaze that’s perfect for drizzling over your cooked chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced home cooks can make mistakes when preparing this dish. Here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Chicken – Chicken thighs are naturally juicy and tender, but if you overcook them, they can become dry and tough. Keep an eye on the cooking time, and always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Using Too Much Sauce – While it’s tempting to drown the chicken in sauce, too much will make the dish soggy. The goal is to coat the chicken lightly with the sauce, letting it soak in for maximum flavor.
• Not Adjusting the Sauce for Taste – If the teriyaki sauce tastes too salty, try adding a little more sugar or honey. If it’s too sweet, a dash of soy sauce or rice vinegar can balance it out. Always taste and adjust as you go!
• Burning the Sauce – Teriyaki sauce contains sugar, which can burn easily. Make sure you simmer the sauce gently and avoid boiling it on high heat. Stir often and keep an eye on it to avoid scorch marks.
• Not Letting the Chicken Rest – After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken stays moist.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have any leftover Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, you’re in luck! This dish stores beautifully and can be enjoyed the next day. This outlines the best practices for storing and reheating it correctly:

• Storing Leftovers – Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The sauce will continue to absorb into the chicken, making it even more flavorful.
• Reheating in the Microwave – To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish. To preserve moisture, cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring after each interval, until thoroughly warmed.
• Reheating on the Stovetop – For best results, reheat the chicken in a pan on medium heat. Add a small splash of water or soy sauce to prevent the chicken from drying out, and cover with a lid to retain moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
• Freezing Leftovers – If you have a lot of leftover chicken, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe container, and when you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating this dish properly ensures the glaze stays sticky, and the chicken stays tender and flavorful.

Serving Ideas and Delicious Pairings

Now that you’ve perfected your homemade Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, it’s time to think about how to serve it. Whether you want a classic takeout-style meal or a creative twist, these ideas will help you build a delicious and well-balanced plate.

What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken (Rice, Noodles, Vegetables)

Teriyaki chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, from fluffy rice to flavorful noodles and crisp vegetables.

Best Rice Options for Teriyaki Chicken

Rice is a classic pairing for teriyaki chicken because it absorbs the flavorful sauce and provides a satisfying texture contrast. Here are some options:

• 🍚 Steamed White Rice – The go-to choice, just like at Panda Express
• 🍚 Brown Rice – A healthier alternative with a nutty flavor
• 🍚 Garlic Butter Rice – Adds an extra layer of savory richness
• 🍚 Coconut Rice – Slightly sweet and creamy, perfect for balancing the salty-sweet teriyaki sauce

Noodles That Go Well with Teriyaki Chicken

For a heartier meal, serve your teriyaki chicken over a bed of noodles:

• 🍜 Lo Mein or Chow Mein – Stir-fried noodles tossed with soy sauce and vegetables
• 🍜 Garlic Sesame Noodles – Lightly seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic
• 🍜 Ramen or Udon – Thick, chewy noodles that hold up well to the teriyaki sauce

Vegetables That Complement Teriyaki Chicken

Adding vegetables to your plate makes the meal more balanced and colorful. Here are some great options:

• 🥦 Steamed Broccoli – A simple, fresh side that pairs well with the sauce
• 🥕 Stir-Fried Bell Peppers and Onions – Adds a sweet crunch
• 🥒 Cucumber Salad – A refreshing, cool contrast to the warm teriyaki glaze
• 🥬 Asian Slaw – Made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing

Making It a Complete Asian-Inspired Meal

To transform your teriyaki chicken into a full restaurant-style meal, consider adding some classic Asian appetizers and drinks.

Appetizers to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken

• 🥟 Vegetable or Chicken Dumplings – Steamed or pan-fried for a perfect starter
• 🍤 Crispy Spring Rolls – Light, crunchy, and delicious with a side of dipping sauce
• 🍲 Miso Soup – A warm and comforting addition to your meal
• 🍣 Sushi Rolls – A fun, fresh side to balance out the teriyaki’s sweetness

Refreshing Drinks That Pair Well

• 🍵 Iced Green Tea – A light and refreshing option
• 🥭 Mango or Lychee Bubble Tea – A fruity and fun addition
• 🍹 Homemade Lemon Iced Tea – The perfect balance of sweetness and citrus

Customizing the Recipe: Spicy, Sweet, or Extra Garlicky?

One of the best things about making teriyaki chicken at home is the ability to customize the flavors to match your taste preferences. Here are some tips for altering the recipe.

Want It Spicier? 🌶️

If you love a little heat, try these additions:

• Sriracha or Chili Paste – Stir into the sauce for a spicy kick
• Red Pepper Flakes – Sprinkle over the finished dish for extra heat
• Fresh Sliced Jalapeños or Thai Chilies – Toss into the sauce for an extra bold flavor

Prefer It Sweeter? 🍯

For a sweeter teriyaki sauce, try:

• Extra Honey or Brown Sugar – Adds caramelization and deeper sweetness
• Pineapple Juice – Enhances sweetness and gives a tropical twist
• Maple Syrup – A natural, richer alternative to sugar

Love Extra Garlic? 🧄

For a bolder garlic flavor, add:

• More Fresh Garlic – Mince 2-3 extra cloves into the sauce
• Garlic Powder – A convenient way to boost garlicky goodness
• Roasted Garlic Paste – Adds a deeper, slightly sweet garlic flavor

Savor the Flavor of Homemade Teriyaki Chicken

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and step-by-step guidance to create your very own Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, it’s time to bring your culinary skills to life! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe offers a deliciously easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home.

The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze combined with tender, juicy chicken makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with family and friends. Plus, with the ability to customize the flavor to suit your preferences, this dish is as versatile as it is tasty.

Serve it over rice, pair it with a refreshing vegetable side, or take it to the next level with a full Asian-inspired meal. Whatever you choose, you’ll be treated to an experience that rivals your favorite takeout, but with the satisfaction of having made it yourself.

So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the taste of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken right at home!