Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

This copycat Panda Express Mushroom Chicken recipe brings the beloved flavors of the restaurant right into your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish offers a delightful combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce that will satisfy any craving. With easy preparation and quick cooking time, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to whip up something delicious without hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Flavorful: The blend of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that rivals takeout.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, this recipe is a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty dish, making it great for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat recipe successfully, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth cooking and better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium bowl
• Small bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A good quality skillet allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear on the chicken.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated with flavor.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for getting the sauce just right.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breast (500 grams, thinly sliced- 1/4 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups mushrooms (cleaned and quartered)
• 1 large zucchini (cut into half circles)

For the Marinade

• 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

For the Sauce

• 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. Add 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breast to the mixture. Mix well to coat all pieces evenly. Let it marinate for 20-30 minutes or overnight if possible.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In another small bowl, whisk together 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. Set this aside as it will be added later.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper searing. Cook until browned on all sides; then remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

In the same skillet, add 2 cups mushrooms and 1 large zucchini. Cook them until they are crisp-tender (about 2-3 minutes), stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Lower the heat to medium-low. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon minced ginger. Stir-fry for about one minute until fragrant.

Step 6: Add Sauce

Pour your prepared sauce into the skillet with chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together until well-coated. Continue to stir-fry until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious homemade Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat!

How to Serve Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Serving your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to enhance your meal presentation and flavor combinations.

Over Rice

• Serve the mushroom chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice for a classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce.

With Noodles

• Pair it with stir-fried noodles for a hearty meal. The noodles can absorb the flavors, making every bite satisfying.

On a Bed of Greens

• For a lighter option, serve on a bed of mixed greens. This adds freshness and crunch to balance the rich flavors.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps. This makes for a fun, low-carb alternative that’s perfect for appetizers or light meals.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Add steamed broccoli or snap peas on the side. These veggies complement the dish’s flavors while adding color and nutrition.

As Part of a Meal Prep

• Portion out the mushroom chicken into meal prep containers. This makes it easy to grab and go for busy weeknights.

How to Perfect Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

To take your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat recipe to the next level, consider these expert tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing your chicken to marinate overnight will enhance its flavor, making every bite juicy and delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger can significantly improve the taste compared to powdered versions.

• Control Heat: To achieve that perfect sear on your chicken, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the meat. This prevents steaming and promotes browning.

• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding the skillet can lead to uneven cooking and soggy chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Pairing sides with your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat can make for a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful companion made with vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce; it’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

2. Egg Rolls: These crispy treats add crunch and are great for dipping in sweet and sour sauce.

3. Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls provide a refreshing contrast with vegetables wrapped in rice paper or crispy pastry.

4. Garlic Bread: A unique twist that allows you to scoop up sauce while adding a deliciously buttery flavor.

5. Quinoa Salad: A healthy alternative packed with nutrients; toss quinoa with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing.

6. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots tossed in an Asian-inspired dressing complements the chicken beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this delicious Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 20-30 minutes for maximum taste.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Placing too much chicken in the skillet at once can prevent proper browning. Cook in batches to ensure a nice sear on each piece.
• Ignoring Vegetable Cooking Time: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for crisp-tender mushrooms and zucchini, about 2-3 minutes should do.
• Not Using a Thickener: Failing to add cornstarch to your sauce may result in a watery dish. Always include it for a richer texture that clings to the chicken and veggies.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale garlic or old ginger can dull the flavor of your dish. Always opt for fresh ingredients for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

• Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals at medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat with a splash of water or oil, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

What is the best way to slice chicken breast?

Slice against the grain into thin strips. This helps keep the chicken tender and juicy during cooking.

How spicy is this Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat?

This recipe is not spicy but can be adjusted by adding chili flakes or Sriracha if you prefer some heat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.

Final Thoughts

This Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust flavors according to your taste. Give it a try; you’ll love how it satisfies your cravings while being healthier than takeout!