Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

There’s something about the flavors of Panda Express Mushroom Chicken that always takes me back to those cozy evenings at home. I remember the first time I attempted to recreate this dish in my own kitchen; the aroma of sizzling chicken and fresh mushrooms filled the air, and it felt like a warm hug on a cold night. My friends gathered around, eagerly awaiting their first taste. As I plated the dish, the vibrant colors of the zucchini and mushrooms made it look as inviting as it smelled. This dish not only satisfies those comfort food cravings but also brings everyone together. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, making Panda Express Mushroom Chicken feels like a celebration of flavors and friendships.

It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the whole experience. I love how simple ingredients can create something so flavorful and comforting. With every bite, you can taste the tenderness of the chicken, the earthiness of the mushrooms, and the zing of fresh ginger and garlic. It’s a dish I can whip up on a busy weeknight or impress guests during a dinner party. I can’t wait to share my secrets on how to make this delicious dish that has become a staple in my home.

Main Ingredients for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

The ingredients for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken are as vibrant and flavorful as the dish itself. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a delicious balance of flavors. The star of the show is the chicken, but the mushrooms and zucchini add texture and nutrition, while the ginger and garlic enhance the aroma and taste. Let’s dive into these key ingredients that make this recipe irresistible.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (450 g) – Tender and flavorful, chicken thighs provide depth to the dish. They cook quickly and remain juicy, making them perfect for this recipe.
• 3 tbsp cornstarch (25 g) – Used for coating the chicken, cornstarch helps achieve a crispy texture while locking in moisture during cooking.
• 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml) – This healthy fat is used for frying the chicken, adding richness and flavor to the dish.
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (225 g) – Mushrooms bring an earthy flavor and meaty texture, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• 1 medium zucchini (about 200 g) – Providing a fresh crunch, zucchini complements the other vegetables while adding nutrition.
• 3 medium garlic cloves – Minced garlic adds aroma and depth of flavor, making the dish incredibly aromatic.
• 2 tsp grated ginger (about 5 g) – Freshly grated ginger offers a zingy kick that brightens up the flavors in the dish.
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (60 ml) – A staple in Asian cuisine, soy sauce adds savory umami notes that enhance the overall flavor profile.
• 1 tbsp lime juice (15 ml) – The acidity from lime juice balances the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing twist.
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (12 g) – This ingredient adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory elements beautifully.
• 1 tsp cornstarch (3 g) + 2 tablespoons water (30 ml) – This mixture is essential for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• 1 tsp sesame seeds – Used for garnish, sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Step by Step Guide for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

Cooking Panda Express Mushroom Chicken is a straightforward process that results in a delicious, homemade meal. Let’s break it down into easy-to-follow steps. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create this flavorful dish!

1. Coat the Chicken: Start by taking your chicken thighs and cutting them into thin, bite-sized pieces. Toss these pieces in a bowl with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This coating will help create a crispy texture when you cook the chicken. Make sure every piece has a light dusting of cornstarch for the best results.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the coated chicken. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through, until they are browned and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they have a lovely golden crust. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and zucchini. Cook them over high heat for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms should become tender and start to release their moisture. This step adds depth to your dish, so don’t rush it!
4. Add Garlic and Ginger: Once the vegetables are cooked, it’s time to add flavor. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step is crucial as the aroma of the garlic and ginger will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.
5. Return Chicken: Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Pour in ¼ cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are well coated in the sauce. Let this simmer for a minute or two so the flavors can meld.
6. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Mix until smooth to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency. You’ll notice it gets nice and sticky, which is perfect for coating your meal.
7. Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for garnish, if desired. Serve your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken hot, ideally over a bed of rice or noodles. The combination of textures and flavors will surely impress your family and friends!

Making Adjustments

When it comes to cooking, adjustments can make all the difference. Here are some tips to ensure your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken is tailored to your liking:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to two months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: Serve this dish with fluffy white rice, fried rice, or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Spice it Up: If you love a little heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the flavors.
• Adding More Veggies: Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.

What Complements This Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

Pairing Panda Express Mushroom Chicken with the right dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great suggestions:

• White Rice: A classic pairing, fluffy white rice absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly.
• Fried Rice: For a hearty option, serve it with vegetable fried rice, adding even more flavor and texture.
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or snow peas adds color and nutrition, balancing the meal.
• Spring Rolls: These crispy appetizers complement the dish and are perfect for sharing.
• Lemonade: A refreshing drink like lemonade pairs well, cutting through the richness of the dish.
• Family Dinners: This dish is perfect for gatherings, bringing everyone together to enjoy a delicious meal.
• Easy Weeknight Dinner: With its quick prep and cook time, it’s ideal for a busy weeknight when you want something tasty.

FAQ

Conclusion

Panda Express Mushroom Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the best flavors of comfort food and Asian cuisine. With its tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and irresistible sauce, it’s a meal that everyone will love. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the joy of homemade takeout. Your friends and family will surely be impressed, and you’ll find yourself making this dish time and time again!

Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Panda Express Mushroom Chicken brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with tender chicken, fresh mushrooms, and zesty ginger that tantalize the taste buds. Perfect for sharing with family or friends, it's a dish you'll crave again and again!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (450 g) cut into thin bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp cornstarch (25 g)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (225 g) white or crimini
• 1 medium zucchini (about 200 g) halved lengthwise and sliced
• 3 medium garlic cloves minced
• 2 tsp grated ginger (about 5 g)
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (60 ml)
• 1 tbsp lime juice (15 ml)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (12 g)
• 1 tsp cornstarch (3 g) + 2 tablespoons water (30 ml) for thickening
• 1 tsp sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Grater
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Coat the Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, making sure it’s evenly coated.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5–6 minutes, flipping once, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and zucchini. Cook on high heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Return Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar, stirring to coat the chicken and vegetables in the sauce.
6. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Pour this slurry into the skillet and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

• Use chicken thighs for flavor: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide tenderness and flavor, but chicken breasts can also be used if preferred.
• Thickening the sauce: The cornstarch slurry is essential for thickening the sauce. Adjust the amount of cornstarch for a thinner or thicker sauce, depending on your preference.
• Customize the veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the dish for extra color and flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh to make this dish vegetarian-friendly. Press the tofu to remove moisture for better texture.
• Spicy Kick: If you like things spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce for some heat.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the brown sugar and serve this with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb twist.

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Meet Quinn Taylor

Great food doesn't have to be complicated, it just has to be smart. I focus on streamlining our recipes so you get maximum flavor with minimum stress. I cooked, timed, and tasted this dish multiple times to ensure it fits perfectly into your busy life while still delivering that 'wow' factor.