What To Know
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened and syrupy.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coated the chicken.
- With a little patience and the guidance of this comprehensive guide, you can now recreate the beloved chicken teriyaki from Panda Express in the comfort of your home.
Craving the delectable chicken teriyaki from Panda Express but want to savor it from the comfort of your home? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will unveil the secrets to crafting mouthwatering chicken teriyaki that rivals the renowned fast-food chain’s culinary masterpiece.
Gather the Essential Ingredients
To embark on this culinary journey, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup water
Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, honey, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, and garlic. Submerge the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Create the Teriyaki Sauce
While the chicken marinates, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the water, soy sauce, mirin, honey, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened and syrupy.
Pan-Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Drain the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Pour the teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coated the chicken.
Serve and Savor
Garnish your chicken teriyaki with sesame seeds and green onions for an authentic Panda Express touch. Serve over steamed rice or noodles, and indulge in the tantalizing flavors that will transport you to your favorite fast-food haven.
Tips for Achieving Panda Express Perfection
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.
- If you don’t have mirin, you can substitute white wine or dry sherry.
- Adjust the amount of cornstarch in the marinade and sauce to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve the chicken teriyaki immediately for the freshest and most flavorful experience.
Troubleshooting Common Challenges
- Chicken is too tough: The chicken was overcooked. Cook it for less time next time.
- Sauce is too thin: Add more cornstarch to the sauce and cook until thickened.
- Sauce is too thick: Add more water to the sauce and stir until desired consistency is achieved.
- Chicken is not flavorful enough: Use higher-quality ingredients and marinate the chicken for longer.
The Final Verdict: A Culinary Triumph
With a little patience and the guidance of this comprehensive guide, you can now recreate the beloved chicken teriyaki from Panda Express in the comfort of your home. Impress your family and friends with this culinary masterpiece, and savor the sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors that will leave you craving more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but thaw it completely before marinating.
Q: What can I serve with chicken teriyaki?
A: Serve chicken teriyaki over steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
