Teriyaki chicken originated in 17th century Japan. The term “teriyaki” combines “teri” (luster) and “yaki” (to grill or broil). Initially, the dish involved grilling or broiling meat and coating it with a glaze made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar.

This cooking method was introduced to Japan by Portuguese traders in the 16th century and quickly gained popularity. Teriyaki chicken became a staple in Japanese cuisine and was introduced to the United States in the 1960s. As Japanese food gained popularity in America, teriyaki chicken became widely appreciated.

Today, it is a globally recognized dish found in restaurants and homes worldwide. The dish has evolved over time, with regional variations emerging. While traditional Japanese teriyaki chicken uses soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, other versions may incorporate ingredients like ginger, garlic, or sesame oil.

Despite these variations, the core concept remains consistent: grilled chicken coated in a sweet and savory glaze. Teriyaki chicken’s appeal lies in its combination of tender meat and flavorful sauce, making it a versatile and enduring dish enjoyed by people of various ages and cultural backgrounds.

Key Takeaways

• Teriyaki chicken originated in Japan and has a long history dating back to the 17th century.
• The secret to Panda Express’ delicious grilled teriyaki chicken lies in their special marinade and grilling technique.
• Making grilled teriyaki chicken at home is easy and requires just a few simple ingredients like soy sauce, mirin, and sugar.
• Grilled teriyaki chicken is a healthy option as it is low in fat and high in protein, and the marinade can be made with low-sodium soy sauce and less sugar.
• Grilled teriyaki chicken pairs well with sides like steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, and sauces like teriyaki glaze or spicy mayo.
• Customer reviews and feedback on Panda Express’ grilled teriyaki chicken are overwhelmingly positive, praising the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
• The future of grilled teriyaki chicken at Panda Express looks promising, with continued popularity and potential for new menu variations.

The Secret to Panda Express’ Delicious Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

The Signature Teriyaki Sauce

The key to Panda Express’ grilled teriyaki chicken lies in their signature teriyaki sauce, which is made from a blend of soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and other secret ingredients. This sauce is carefully crafted to achieve the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that make Panda Express’ teriyaki chicken so irresistible.

High-Quality Chicken and Marination

In addition to their flavorful teriyaki sauce, Panda Express takes great care in selecting high-quality chicken for their grilled teriyaki chicken dish. The chicken is marinated in the teriyaki sauce to ensure that it is infused with flavor and remains tender and juicy when grilled.

The Perfect Grilling Process

The grilling process is also crucial to achieving the perfect texture and flavor, as the chicken is cooked to perfection over an open flame, resulting in a smoky and charred exterior that adds depth to the dish. Panda Express’ commitment to quality and attention to detail are what set their grilled teriyaki chicken apart from the rest. Each bite of their teriyaki chicken is bursting with flavor, and the tender, juicy texture of the chicken is a testament to the care and expertise that goes into preparing this beloved dish.

How to Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken at Home

While Panda Express’ grilled teriyaki chicken is undeniably delicious, it is also possible to recreate this mouthwatering dish at home. Making grilled teriyaki chicken at home allows you to customize the flavors to your liking and ensures that you are using high-quality ingredients. To make grilled teriyaki chicken at home, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, soy sauce, mirin (or a combination of rice vinegar and sugar), garlic, ginger, and optional ingredients such as sesame oil or red pepper flakes.

Start by preparing the teriyaki marinade by combining soy sauce, mirin, minced garlic, grated ginger, and any optional ingredients in a bowl. Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that it is fully coated. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

Once the chicken has marinated, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it is fully cooked through and has a nice charred exterior.

While grilling, you can brush the chicken with additional teriyaki sauce for extra flavor. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. You can serve your homemade grilled teriyaki chicken with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

The Health Benefits of Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Grilled teriyaki chicken not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers several health benefits when prepared with lean cuts of meat and minimal added sugars. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It also contains important nutrients such as niacin, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and selenium.

When grilled, excess fat drips away from the chicken, making it a healthier cooking method compared to frying or sautéing. Additionally, grilling imparts a smoky flavor to the chicken without the need for excessive amounts of oil or butter. The teriyaki sauce used to marinate the chicken can be made with reduced sodium soy sauce and minimal added sugars for a healthier option.

The marinade ingredients such as garlic and ginger also offer health benefits. Garlic has been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, while ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. When combined with lean grilled chicken, these ingredients create a flavorful dish that not only tastes great but also provides essential nutrients for overall health.

Pairing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken with Sides and Sauces

Grilled teriyaki chicken pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces that complement its sweet and savory flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving your grilled teriyaki chicken with steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious teriyaki sauce. You can also add stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for added color and nutrition.

In addition to traditional sides, consider adding a fresh salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing to balance out the richness of the teriyaki chicken. For an extra kick of flavor, serve your grilled teriyaki chicken with a side of pickled ginger or kimchi for a refreshing and spicy contrast. When it comes to sauces, you can drizzle extra teriyaki sauce over the grilled chicken for added flavor or serve it with a side of spicy sriracha mayo for a creamy and tangy kick.

You can also experiment with different dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce or a citrusy ponzu sauce for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Customer Reviews and Feedback on Panda Express’ Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

The Future of Grilled Teriyaki Chicken at Panda Express

As Panda Express continues to innovate and expand its menu offerings, grilled teriyaki chicken remains a staple that is beloved by customers around the world. With its timeless appeal and versatile flavor profile, grilled teriyaki chicken is likely to remain a popular choice for those seeking a delicious and satisfying meal. In response to changing consumer preferences and dietary needs, Panda Express may explore new variations of grilled teriyaki chicken that cater to different tastes and dietary restrictions.

This could include offering options for gluten-free or low-sodium teriyaki sauce, as well as incorporating additional ingredients such as vegetables or tofu for those seeking plant-based options. Panda Express may also continue to highlight the health benefits of grilled teriyaki chicken by promoting its lean protein content and nutrient-rich marinade ingredients. By emphasizing the nutritional value of this dish, Panda Express can appeal to health-conscious consumers who are looking for flavorful yet wholesome meal options.

Overall, grilled teriyaki chicken is likely to remain a beloved menu item at Panda Express for years to come, thanks to its timeless appeal and delicious flavor profile that continues to delight customers around the world.

If you’re a fan of Panda Express’s grilled teriyaki chicken, you might also enjoy learning about the history and cultural significance of teriyaki sauce. Check out this article on Cubiche Couture to discover the origins of this popular Japanese marinade and how it has become a staple in American cuisine.

FAQs

What is grilled teriyaki chicken from Panda Express?

Grilled teriyaki chicken from Panda Express is a popular menu item that features tender, grilled chicken breast marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.

Is Panda Express grilled teriyaki chicken healthy?

Panda Express grilled teriyaki chicken is a relatively healthy option, as it is a good source of lean protein. However, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes and the overall balance of your meal.

What are the ingredients in Panda Express grilled teriyaki chicken?

The ingredients in Panda Express grilled teriyaki chicken typically include chicken breast, soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings for the teriyaki marinade.

How is Panda Express grilled teriyaki chicken prepared?

The chicken is marinated in the teriyaki sauce and then grilled to perfection, resulting in a flavorful and juicy dish.

Can I order Panda Express grilled teriyaki chicken for takeout or delivery?

Yes, Panda Express offers grilled teriyaki chicken as part of their menu for both takeout and delivery orders.