Panda Express Mushroom Chicken
If you’re a fan of quick, delicious meals that pack a punch of flavor, then you are in for a treat with this Panda Express Mushroom Chicken recipe. It’s a delightful dish that features tender chicken thighs, earthy mushrooms, and crisp zucchini, all coated in a savory sauce. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Let’s dive into the details of making this scrumptious meal right at home!
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Panda Express Mushroom Chicken recipe is reliable for several reasons. First and foremost, it features easily accessible ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. The chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, while the mushrooms and zucchini add both flavor and texture. The sauce is simple yet packed with umami, making it a perfect counterpart to the chicken. Plus, this dish can be made in under 30 minutes, which is ideal for busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever ordered takeout!
Ingredient Notes
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: 1 lb (450 g) cut into thin bite-sized pieces. Chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor compared to chicken breasts.
- Cornstarch: 3 tbsp (25 g) for coating the chicken, ensuring a nice crispy texture.
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp (30 ml) for sautéing and adding richness.
- Mushrooms: 8 oz (225 g), sliced. You can use either white or crimini mushrooms for this recipe.
- Zucchini: 1 medium (about 200 g), halved lengthwise and sliced for added nutrition and crunch.
- Garlic: 3 medium cloves, minced, for a fragrant base.
- Grated Ginger: 2 tsp (about 5 g) to enhance the flavor profile with a hint of warmth.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: ½ cup (60 ml) to control sodium levels while still delivering that classic soy flavor.
- Lime Juice: 1 tbsp (15 ml) for a refreshing zing.
- Brown Sugar: 1 tbsp (12 g) to balance the savory and tangy flavors.
- Cornstarch Slurry: 1 tsp (3 g) mixed with 2 tbsp (30 ml) water for thickening the sauce.
- Sesame Seeds: 1 tsp for garnish (optional), adding a touch of crunch and visual appeal.
Appliances & Accessories
- Large Skillet or Wok: Perfect for stir-frying your ingredients quickly and evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for precise ingredient measurements to ensure consistent results.
- Spatula: Ideal for stirring and flipping the chicken without damaging your pan.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For prepping your chicken and vegetables with ease.
Panda Express Mushroom Chicken — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into thin, bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch until evenly coated. This will help achieve that desirable crispy texture.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and zucchini. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Pour this mixture into the skillet, allowing it to simmer for a minute. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
To thicken the sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Gradually add this to the skillet while stirring until the sauce thickens to your liking.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken over steamed rice or noodles, and garnish with sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy this delightful meal with family and friends!
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
- Bell Peppers: Add sliced bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Broccoli: Swap out zucchini for broccoli florets for a heartier bite.
- Snow Peas: Incorporate snow peas in spring for a crunchy texture.
- Carrots: Use julienned carrots for added sweetness and color.
Missteps & Fixes
- Chicken Sticking to the Pan: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps in achieving a good sear.
- Overcooked Vegetables: Keep an eye on the cooking time for mushrooms and zucchini to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Sauce Too Thin: If your sauce doesn’t thicken, simply add more of the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute.
- Too Salty: If the dish turns out too salty, add a splash of water or a squeeze of lime juice to balance the flavors.
Save It for Later
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Ask the Chef
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may not be as juicy as thighs. Be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness.
What can I serve with Panda Express Mushroom Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it alongside Mushroom Shallot Frittata for a delightful brunch option.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same cooking instructions for a tasty vegetarian version.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers when you sauté the garlic and ginger. This will elevate the flavor profile and give it a spicy kick!
The Takeaway
Panda Express Mushroom Chicken is an easy, delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right into your home kitchen. With its tender chicken, savory sauce, and vibrant vegetables, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that you can confidently call your own!
Panda Express Mushroom Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into thin, bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch until evenly coated.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and zucchini. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for an additional minute.
- Combine low-sodium soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Pour this mixture into the skillet and allow it to simmer for a minute before returning the chicken.
- To thicken the sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Gradually add this to the skillet while stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Remove the skillet from heat, serve over steamed rice or noodles, and garnish with sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be frozen; store in a freezer-safe container.
- To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
