How To Cook Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

I remember a time when I was craving some delicious teriyaki chicken, but I didn’t have the means to go out and buy it. I had to get creative and figure out a way to make it at home with what I had on hand. That’s when I discovered a simple and budget-friendly recipe for Panda Express-style teriyaki chicken that satisfied my cravings and saved me money. Today, I want to share that recipe with you so you can enjoy a tasty meal without breaking the bank.

Understanding the Topic

Teriyaki chicken is a popular dish that originated in Japan but has been adapted and popularized in many different countries, including the United States. The key to a good teriyaki chicken dish lies in the flavorful and slightly sweet teriyaki sauce that coats the chicken. At Panda Express, their teriyaki chicken is known for its bold flavors and tender meat, making it a favorite among many customers.

Common Pitfalls or Mistakes

One common mistake when making teriyaki chicken is overcooking the meat, which can result in tough and dry chicken. It’s important to cook the chicken just until it’s done to avoid this issue. Additionally, using too much sauce can overpower the dish and make it too salty or sweet. It’s best to start with a small amount of sauce and add more to taste.

Little-Known Facts or Useful Background

Teriyaki sauce is typically made with a combination of soy sauce, mirin (a sweet rice wine), sugar, and other seasonings. The sauce is simmered until it thickens and develops a rich flavor. In Japanese cuisine, teriyaki sauce is often used as a marinade for meats before grilling or broiling.

Kitchen Myths or Misunderstandings

One common misunderstanding about teriyaki chicken is that it has to be cooked on a grill or in a skillet. While grilling or pan-searing the chicken can add a nice charred flavor, you can also bake the chicken in the oven for a simpler preparation method. The key is to ensure the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has caramelized slightly.

Step-by-Step Recipe or Instructions

To make Panda Express teriyaki chicken at home, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1/2 cup soy sauce

– 1/4 cup mirin

– 1/4 cup sugar

– 1 clove garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon grated ginger

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch

– 2 tablespoons water

– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Here is how you can make it:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

2. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.

3. Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly.

4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour half of the teriyaki sauce over them. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.

6. Arrange the chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.

7. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

8. Remove the chicken from the oven and brush with the remaining teriyaki sauce. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

9. Serve the teriyaki chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Ingredients	Quantity
Boneless, skinless chicken breast	1 pound
Soy sauce	1/2 cup
Mirin	1/4 cup
Sugar	1/4 cup
Garlic, minced	1 clove
Ginger, grated	1 teaspoon
Cornstarch	1 tablespoon
Water	2 tablespoons
Sesame seeds, green onions	For garnish

Can I make teriyaki chicken with other types of meat?

Yes, you can also make teriyaki chicken with boneless, skinless chicken thighs, tofu, or even shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce if you’re short on time or ingredients. Simply marinate the chicken in the sauce before cooking, or brush it on during the cooking process.

Can I freeze leftover teriyaki chicken?

Yes, you can freeze leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Savings Spotlight 💵

• Buy pantry staples like soy sauce and sugar in bulk to save money in the long run.
• Use leftover teriyaki sauce as a marinade for other meats or vegetables to reduce waste.
• Grow your own herbs like green onions or ginger to have fresh ingredients on hand without constantly buying them.

“The key to a great teriyaki chicken dish is balancing the flavors of sweet, salty, and savory,” says Sarah M., a food blogger with a passion for Asian cuisine.

“Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and techniques to make the dish your own,” says Alex T., a home cook who loves trying new recipes.

Budget Kitchen Tip 💡

In conclusion, cooking Panda Express teriyaki chicken at home is an easy and budget-friendly way to enjoy a delicious Asian-inspired dish. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can recreate the flavors of your favorite restaurant dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make adjustments to suit your taste preferences. Happy cooking!