Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken

When I think of comfort food, one dish that always comes to mind is Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken. There’s something about the sweet and savory combination that draws me in every time. It reminds me of cozy evenings spent with family, gathered around the table, enjoying a meal that bursts with flavor. As a kid, I would always eagerly await the arrival of takeout from our favorite Chinese restaurant, and the Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken was always a highlight.

Now, I’ve created my own version at home, and I can’t tell you how satisfying it is to recreate that restaurant magic in my kitchen. The juicy pieces of chicken are perfectly coated in a rich, glossy teriyaki sauce, and every bite feels like a warm hug. It’s versatile too; whether served over rice or with a side of steamed vegetables, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Plus, I love knowing exactly what goes into my meals!

Making Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken is easier than you might think, and the ingredients are simple and accessible. You’ll be impressed by how quickly this dish comes together, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into why this dish is not just another meal, but a beloved recipe that deserves a spot in your kitchen.

Shopping List for Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken

When it comes to preparing Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken, the ingredients are simple yet essential, working together to create a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. Each component plays a critical role, from the savory depth of soy sauce to the sweetness that the sugars bring. Let’s break down these key players:

• Canola oil or vegetable oil – This oil serves as the base for cooking the chicken, helping to achieve that perfect golden color and sear. It has a high smoke point, making it ideal for frying.
• Chicken thighs – I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this dish as they remain juicy and tender during cooking, absorbing the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
• Low-sodium soy sauce – This ingredient is crucial for flavor, offering that deep umami taste we crave in Asian dishes without overpowering saltiness.
• Sugar – Both regular and brown sugar add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements, making the sauce irresistible.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic not only enhances the taste but also adds a wonderful aroma to your dish.
• Water – Used to adjust the sauce consistency, it helps in blending all the flavors together seamlessly.
• Lemon juice – Adds a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the sauce, bringing everything together.
• Fresh ginger – A key ingredient that contributes a warm, spicy note, making the dish more aromatic and flavorful.
• Cornstarch – This is essential for thickening the sauce, giving it that luscious, glossy finish.

Preparation Steps for Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken

Cooking Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful process that brings your kitchen to life. Gather your ingredients and let’s get started! Follow these steps for a delicious homemade version that will have you savoring every bite.

1. Add the chicken thighs to a bowl and coat them with the canola oil to ensure they are well-covered. This will help lock in moisture as they cook.
2. Place a grill pan on the stove and heat it up on high. The right temperature is key to achieving that beautiful sear on the chicken.
3. Once the pan is heated, add the coated chicken thighs to the pan. Leave them for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side. Look for those beautifully charred lines indicating they are cooking perfectly.
4. Remove the chicken from the heat once it’s cooked through, ensuring it’s no longer pink in the center. Set the chicken aside on a plate.
5. In a separate pan over medium-high heat, mix together the soy sauce, both types of sugar, minced garlic, lemon juice, water, and fresh ginger. Stir well and bring to a boil while enjoying the aroma wafting through your kitchen!
6. Once boiling, reduce the temperature to medium-low and allow the sauce to simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes. This will help all the flavors meld together.
7. Next, in a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with an additional water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the sauce, stirring continuously as it cooks over low heat.
8. Watch closely as the sauce begins to thicken and develop that glossy finish—this is where the magic happens!
9. Once thickened, return the cooked chicken to the sauce, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly. This step seals in all those delicious flavors.
10. Serve your masterpiece on a plate, perhaps over a bed of rice, and drizzle the teriyaki sauce over the top. Enjoy with grilled pineapple or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

Recipe Variations about Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken

While the classic Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it to keep things interesting. Here are some variations you can try:

• Incorporate Vegetables: Add a mix of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to enhance the dish’s nutritional value.
• Spicy Kick: If you crave some heat, consider adding a splash of chili sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Alternative Proteins: Swap out chicken thighs for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or pescatarian option.
• Different Sauces: Experiment with different types of teriyaki sauces available in stores, or make your own from scratch for a unique twist.
• Rice Alternatives: Serve over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a different texture and experience.
• Meal Prep: Prepare double the amount and freeze half for a quick meal later in the month.

Serve This Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken With

When it comes to serving Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken, the possibilities are endless. Here’s how to make your meal even more delightful:

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up that delicious sauce.
• Vegetables: Complement your dish with a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas for added nutrition and color.
• Grilled Pineapple: The sweetness of grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the chicken, adding a tropical twist.
• Salad: A light salad with a citrus dressing can brighten the meal and balance out the richness of the chicken.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a casual Friday night with friends. It’s sure to impress!
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve flavor and texture.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that brings together family and friends around the dinner table. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s a dish worth trying. I encourage you to give it a go and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits you in every bite!

Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken combines juicy chicken with a rich, sweet teriyaki sauce. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for the whole family and bursting with flavor. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons Canola oil or vegetable oil
• 2 pounds Chicken thighs Boneless/skinless and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup Low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Sugar
• 1/4 cup Brown sugar
• 3 cloves Garlic Minced
• 1/3 cup Water
• 1 teaspoon Lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons Water
• 2 tablespoons Cornstarch

Instructions

 

• Add the chicken thighs to a bowl and coat them with the canola oil.
• Place a grill pan on the stove and heat it up on high. Once heated, add the chicken thighs and leave them for 3-5 minutes on each side. Until they have lines from grilling and the chicken is cooked through. Remove from heat.
• In a separate pan, over medium-high heat, add the soy sauce, both sugars, garlic, lemon juice, water, and ginger. Mix and bring to a boil.
• Reduce the temperature to medium-low and cook the sauce for 2-3 minutes.
• Next, mix cornstarch with water, and add the mixture to the sauce, cook over low heat until the sauce starts thickening.
• Place the cooked chicken on a plate with rice and drizzle the sauce on top.
• Serve with grilled pineapple and steamed vegetables.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Tip 2: Freeze portions for a quick meal later; just reheat gently.
• Tip 3: Pair with a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• Tip 4: Feel free to adjust the sugar levels to suit your taste.
• Tip 5: This dish is great for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Keyword Easy Chicken Dinner, homemade teriyaki chicken, Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken, Panda Express recipe