We’re excited to share how to make Panda Express Mushroom Chicken at home. This recipe will guide you through marinating the chicken, cooking it perfectly, sautéing the veggies, and creating a delicious sauce. Soon, you’ll be enjoying a meal that tastes just like Panda Express, but you made it yourself.
This post includes detailed instructions on ingredients, cooking techniques, and helpful tips. Whether you love the original dish or just want a tasty stir-fry, this recipe is perfect. It’s ideal for satisfying your cravings for something special.
Key Takeaways
- Recreate the beloved Panda Express Mushroom Chicken at home with this easy-to-follow recipe.
- Learn the secrets to marinating the chicken for the perfect texture and flavor.
- Master the techniques for searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
- Enjoy the signature Panda Express taste with a savory, sweet, and tangy sauce.
- Customize the dish with your preferred vegetables and adjust the spice level to your liking.
Introduction to the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat Recipe
Panda Express’ Mushroom Chicken is a top choice at the fast-casual chain. It features chicken, mushrooms, and zucchini in a tasty soy-based sauce. Many love it for the delicious taste and healthy veggies.
About the Dish
This dish highlights Panda Express’ Asian flavors. It mixes chicken, mushrooms, and zucchini in a special sauce. It’s a healthy meal that many enjoy for its taste and balance of ingredients.
Why Make it at Home?
Making this dish at home saves money and lets you adjust it to your taste. This copycat recipe allows you to make the Mushroom Chicken using fresh, quality ingredients. By making it yourself, you can choose what goes in it, making it healthier and suited to your preferences.
Ingredients Needed
To make Panda Express Mushroom Chicken at home, gather these ingredients:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: 1 pound
- Mushrooms: 5 oz
- Zucchini: 1 medium
- Soy Sauce: ¼ cup
- Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Brown Sugar: 2 teaspoons
- Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic: 2 teaspoons, minced
- Ginger: 1 teaspoon, minced
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
Vegetable Choices
The classic Panda Express dish includes mushrooms and zucchini. However, you can use other veggies like broccoli, snow peas, eggplant, or carrots. The sauce complements many stir-fry vegetables, so pick your favorites.
Sauce Ingredients
This amazing sauce is a mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, plus garlic and ginger. Add cornstarch to thicken it nicely. The blend of flavors gives it that Panda Express taste we love.
Marinade for Tender Chicken
Marinating the chicken thighs makes them tasty and tender. It adds the delicious, savory flavors we love from this copycat recipe.
Marinade Ingredients
- Soy Sauce
- Shaoxing Wine (or cooking sherry)
- Brown Sugar
- Cornstarch
- Baking Soda
Marinating Tips
It’s best to marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to overnight. This allows the flavors to soak in well. Remember to discard the used marinade, as it contains juices from the uncooked chicken and is not safe to reuse.
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Sear
Getting the perfect sear on chicken is key to making a Panda Express Mushroom Chicken dish at home. We need to use certain techniques to ensure the chicken gets a nice crust yet stays tender.
Pan Temperature
Make the pan or wok very hot for the chicken to get a good sear. Use oils like avocado or vegetable that can handle high heat. They help achieve that ideal golden-brown color on the chicken pieces.
Spacing the Chicken
Don’t overcrowd the pan. Leave space so the pieces can sear well without steaming. You might need to sear the chicken in batches to ensure even browning.
Searing Technique
Place the chicken pieces in a single layer without overlapping. Let them sit until they turn golden-brown, which can take 30 seconds to a minute per side. This method is crucial for the tasty caramelized crust in the dish.
Sautéing Vegetables
Our recipe for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken is all about the perfect blend of flavors. We’ll guide you on cooking the vegetables just right for a tasty stir-fry. The mushrooms and zucchini bring a nice texture and nutritional boost to this meal.
Preparing Vegetables
First, slice the mushrooms evenly to keep them firm during cooking. Then, cut the zucchini into thin half-moons. These steps ensure the zucchini cooks quickly without getting soggy.
Stir-Fry Technique
For perfect mushrooms and zucchini, your pan or wok must be very hot. The heat prevents them from getting too watery. It allows them to sear well and stay crisp enough. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. If your pan is small, cook the veggies in batches.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken over steamed rice or noodles. It also works well in lettuce cups or tortillas for a low-carb option. To add more spice, include sambal chili paste or Szechuan chili oil.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerating Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing and Thawing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating Methods: Use a skillet, wok, or oven to maintain the dish’s texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetable Swaps
Change the veggies to suit your taste. Broccoli, snow peas, carrots, or bamboo shoots are great alternatives.
Sauce Alternatives
If you’re missing an ingredient, substitute with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and rice vinegar. Fish sauce also works for a different flavor, ensuring it’s still a little sweet, tangy, and savory.
Taking This Panda Express Recipe To Go!
Making Panda Express Mushroom Chicken at home is simple and satisfying. Follow the steps to marinate, sear the chicken, and cook the veggies in a delicious sauce. This way, you control what goes into your food and enjoy a healthier meal.
Ready to try something new? This recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy your favorite Chinese meal without leaving home. Enjoy your meal!
Copycat Panda Express Mushroom Chicken FAQs
What is Panda Express Mushroom Chicken?
Panda Express Mushroom Chicken is a favorite featuring juicy chicken, mushrooms, and zucchini cooked in a soy sauce with garlic and ginger.
Why should I make this dish at home?
Cooking this dish at home saves money and lets you choose the ingredients and portion sizes that suit you best.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for their juiciness and flavor. If using chicken breasts, tenderize them before cooking.
What vegetables can I use besides mushrooms and zucchini?
Broccoli, snow peas, or bamboo shoots are great alternatives.
What are the key ingredients in the sauce?
The sauce includes soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Cornstarch thickens it.
How do I marinate the chicken for the best texture?
Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, brown sugar, cornstarch, and baking soda for a tender, flavorful result.
What’s the key to getting a nice sear on the chicken?
Ensure the pan is hot and cook the chicken in a single layer without crowding for a golden-brown sear.
How do I properly sauté the vegetables?
Make sure the pan is very hot to prevent steaming and keep the vegetables crisp yet tender.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, add chili paste or chili oil. Szechuan chili oil, Korean chili flakes, or Thai chili flakes work well.
How do I store and reheat leftover Panda Express Mushroom Chicken?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat using a skillet or oven to maintain texture.
The Best Darn Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat Recipe You Ever Did Try!
Equipment
- Wok or large skillet
- Medium bowl for marinating
- Small bowl for the sauce
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1½ tablespoon Shaoxing wine or cooking wine
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar
Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1½ teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¾ teaspoon ginger grated
Stir Fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cups mushrooms sliced
- 1 zucchini cut into half circles
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the marinade ingredients and add the thinly sliced chicken. Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: Mix all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the vegetable oil and once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear until golden brown on both sides, about 1 minute per side. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the mushrooms and zucchini. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Combine and Cook: Lower the heat to medium, return the chicken to the pan, and pour in the sauce. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
Notes:
- Uniform Size: Ensure that chicken and vegetables are cut to a uniform size for even cooking.
- Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the chicken helps it get crispy.
- Marinating Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for better flavor absorption.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Variations:
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or sambal oelek to the sauce for a spicier kick.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute tofu for chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for more variety.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
