Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

This Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat recipe brings the beloved flavors of your favorite restaurant dish right into your kitchen. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. With tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and fresh zucchini, it delivers a delightful balance of taste and nutrition. Plus, you’ll love how simple it is to whip up this Asian-inspired dish that can impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from prep to plate, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Enjoy a mouthwatering blend of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil that enhances the overall taste.
• Healthy Choices: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from vegetables, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal, or enjoy on its own as a low-carb option.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this flavor-packed dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having these on hand will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium bowl
• Small bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This is essential for achieving high heat when searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken to enhance its flavor before cooking.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise slicing of chicken and vegetables for even cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients while protecting your counters.

Ingredients

This copycat Panda Express mushroom chicken recipe is based on the very popular mushroom chicken that you can get at Panda Express.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breast (500 grams, thinly sliced- 1/4 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups mushrooms (cleaned and quartered)
– 1 large zucchini (cut into half circles)
– 3 minced garlic cloves
– 1 teaspoon minced ginger
– 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons corn starch
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup light soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 2 teaspoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch

How to Make Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl combine 2 tablespoons light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and 2 tablespoons corn starch for marinade. Add 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breast; mix to coat. Allow to marinate for 20-30 minutes or overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Combine 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup light soy sauce, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch in another small bowl. Set it aside for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once the skillet is smoking, add the marinated chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook until browned, flipping as needed. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add 2 cups of quartered mushrooms and 1 large zucchini slices to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are crisp-tender (about 2–3 minutes), mixing frequently.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Vegetables

Reduce heat to medium-low and return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon minced ginger; cook for about 1 minute while stirring frequently.

Step 6: Add Sauce & Thicken

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with all ingredients. Mix everything to coat evenly. Stir-fry until the sauce thickens.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your homemade Panda Express Mushroom Chicken!

How to Serve Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance its flavors and make for a delightful meal. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed jasmine or white rice provides a fluffy base that absorbs the delicious sauce of the mushroom chicken.

With Noodles

• Pairing this dish with lo mein or rice noodles creates a satisfying combination of textures and flavors that is sure to please.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serving the mushroom chicken over fresh greens, like spinach or mixed salad, adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the dish.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, use crisp lettuce leaves to create wraps stuffed with the mushroom chicken for a fun and healthy meal.

As a Filling for Tacos

• Use small tortillas to wrap up the mushroom chicken, adding toppings like avocado or salsa for an exciting twist on traditional tacos.

With Pickled Vegetables

• A side of pickled vegetables provides a tangy contrast that cuts through the savory flavors of the mushroom chicken, enhancing your dining experience.

How to Perfect Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

To achieve restaurant-quality results at home, consider these tips for perfecting your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat recipe.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight intensifies flavors and tenderizes the meat.
• High Heat Cooking: Ensure your skillet is hot enough to sear the chicken quickly, locking in juices and creating a nice brown crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet lowers the temperature and can lead to steaming instead of browning.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger for optimal flavor. Fresh vegetables will also enhance taste and texture.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add extra cornstarch dissolved in water.
• Garnish Smartly: Top with sliced green onions or sesame seeds before serving for an appealing presentation and added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Serving your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat alongside complementary side dishes elevates your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice: A classic choice; stir-fried rice with peas, carrots, and egg offers a flavorful accompaniment.
2. Egg Rolls: Crunchy egg rolls filled with cabbage and carrots make for a satisfying appetizer that pairs well with the chicken.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious; steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits without overpowering flavors.
4. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame oil complements the dish beautifully.
5. Miso Soup: Light miso soup brings warmth and comfort, balancing out the richness of the mushroom chicken.
6. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a crisp counterpoint to savory flavors.
7. Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles with vegetables provide another textural option while soaking up leftover sauce.
8. Vegetable Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with assorted veggies create an enjoyable bite-sized side to enjoy alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat, a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Take time to let your chicken absorb the marinade for at least 20 minutes.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Adding too much chicken at once can prevent proper browning. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear.
• Neglecting Vegetable Preparation: Using unevenly sized vegetables can result in uneven cooking. Cut mushrooms and zucchini into similar sizes for consistent texture.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the chicken well. Ensure you follow the cornstarch ratio correctly for a thicker sauce.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Relying solely on recipes without tasting can lead to unbalanced flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for best results.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat?

Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat is a homemade version of the popular dish from Panda Express, featuring tender chicken with mushrooms and zucchini in a savory sauce.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas based on your preferences to customize this dish further.

How do I make it gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that other sauces are also gluten-free.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is not spicy as written but you can add some red pepper flakes or Sriracha if you prefer heat.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

This Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat recipe offers incredible flavors and versatility. It’s quick to prepare and can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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