Name: Chinese Mushroom Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 10 oz boneless and skinless chicken breast (cut into cubes); 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons oil; 5 slices ginger (peeled); 4 oz mushrooms (cut into halves); 8 oz zucchini (cut into pieces); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 3 dashes white pepper; 1/8 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons water; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; to taste Salt

Chinese Mushroom Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp zucchini, all enveloped in a savory sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s a quick and healthy option that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a delicious meal that is full of flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking to explore the wonderful flavors of Chinese cuisine, this dish is a must-try.

Reasons to Love Chinese Mushroom Chicken

There are countless reasons to adore Chinese Mushroom Chicken. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily swap out the vegetables according to what’s in your fridge or what’s in season. The star of the dish, the chicken, is tender and flavorful, while the mushrooms add a rich umami depth to the meal. Plus, this dish is quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for weeknight dinners. You’ll also love how it can be paired with various side dishes, from steamed rice to a fresh salad.

Ingredients at a Glance

10 oz (280g) boneless and skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons oil
5 slices ginger, peeled
4 oz (400g) mushrooms, cut into halves
8 oz (230g) zucchini, cut into pieces
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
3 dashes white pepper
1/8 teaspoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Salt to taste

Cook’s Kit

Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying and ensures even cooking.
Spatula: Perfect for tossing the ingredients without breaking them.
Measuring spoons and cups: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Cutting board and knife: For preparing your chicken and vegetables.

The Method for Chinese Mushroom Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the cubed chicken breast in a bowl. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and a pinch of salt. This will help to tenderize the chicken and create a nice coating when cooked.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a wok or large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken cubes and stir-fry until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Ginger

In the same pan, add the slices of ginger and sauté them for about 1 minute until fragrant. This will infuse the oil with a lovely ginger flavor.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Next, add the halved mushrooms and zucchini pieces to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the zucchini is bright in color yet still crisp.

Step 5: Combine the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 3 dashes of white pepper, 1/8 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir until combined.

Step 6: Bring it All Together

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, tossing everything together to ensure an even coating. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the pan and stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 1 minute.

Step 8: Serve

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary. Serve your Chinese Mushroom Chicken immediately, garnished with additional sesame oil if desired.

In-Season Swaps

Bell Peppers: Add vibrant colors and crunch to your dish.
Snow Peas: For a sweet, crisp addition.
Broccoli: A great way to add more nutrition and texture.
Carrots: Thinly sliced for color and sweetness.

Slip-Ups to Skip

Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; this can cause it to steam instead of brown.
Be careful not to overcook the vegetables; they should be tender but still have a bit of crunch.
Always taste the sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning can make a huge difference.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Chinese Mushroom Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If you’d like to make it ahead of time, you can prepare the chicken and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Just combine everything and cook just before serving for a fresh taste.

Quick Questions

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

What can I serve with Chinese Mushroom Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Definitely! Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Ready to Cook?

Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on making Chinese Mushroom Chicken, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get started! This dish is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to enjoy a balanced meal packed with protein and veggies. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, the comforting flavors and vibrant colors are sure to impress. Get ready to savor each bite of this delightful dish, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular feature on your dinner table!

Share on Pinterest