Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

This Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the beloved flavors of your favorite takeout dish right at home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, delivering a delicious blend of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and fresh vegetables in just 20 minutes. The best part? You can customize it to suit your taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic evenings.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger packs a punch that will delight your palate.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken or vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• Healthier Option: By making this dish at home, you control the ingredients and portion sizes while still enjoying a comforting meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe stores well in the fridge, making it great for meal prepping or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium bowl
• Small bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying ingredients quickly over high heat, ensuring even cooking.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for marinating chicken, allowing flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes preparation easier and safer when slicing ingredients.

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 Marinade

• 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breast (500 grams, thinly sliced- 1/4 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups mushrooms (cleaned and quartered)
• 1 large zucchini (cut into half circles)
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger

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 slices. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Allow it to marinate for 20-30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine 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. Whisk until smooth and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once hot, add marinated chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook until browned on both sides, flipping as needed. Once cooked through, remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add 2 cups quartered mushrooms and your sliced zucchini. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are crisp-tender. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Reduce heat to medium-low. Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet with vegetables. Add in your minced garlic cloves and ginger; cook for another minute while stirring frequently to release their flavors.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Serve

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with chicken and vegetables. Mix everything thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Stir-fry until the sauce thickens slightly—this should take about a minute or two.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Dish

Serve this delightful Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

This delicious Panda Express mushroom chicken copycat recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white rice pairs perfectly with the savory sauce of the mushroom chicken, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Serve the mushroom chicken over cooked lo mein or rice noodles for a heartier dish that adds texture and flavor.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Include a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition. This also balances out the richness of the chicken.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the mushroom chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for an easy-to-eat meal that’s fresh and flavorful.

As Part of a Stir-Fry Platter

• Add additional stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers and carrots to make it a colorful and vibrant centerpiece for your dinner table.

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How to Perfect Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

To make this dish truly shine, consider these helpful tips for achieving restaurant-quality results at home.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, zucchini, and garlic will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
• Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just 30 minutes.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming and ensures each piece gets a good sear.
• Adjust sauce thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water before cooking.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrients.
• Serve hot: Enjoy your dish immediately after cooking for optimal taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Pairing sides with your Panda Express mushroom chicken copycat can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice
   A classic choice, fried rice adds flavor and complements the main dish nicely.
2. Egg Rolls
   Crispy egg rolls provide a delightful crunch and are perfect for dipping in soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.
3. Chow Mein
   Soft noodles tossed with vegetables make a great addition, giving variety to your meal plate.
4. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad brings a cool contrast to the savory chicken and is easy to prepare.
5. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup can be a comforting starter before diving into the main dish.
6. Asian Slaw
   This crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots offers freshness that balances rich flavors beautifully.
7. Steamed Dumplings
   Soft dumplings filled with meat or vegetables offer another layer of flavor that complements your meal wonderfully.
8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Roasting Brussels sprouts gives them a nutty flavor that pairs well with the umami notes in mushroom chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make small errors when preparing the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 20-30 minutes.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Placing too much chicken in the skillet at once prevents proper searing. Cook in batches if necessary for a nice brown crust.
• Ignoring vegetable cooking times: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Sauté mushrooms and zucchini just until they’re crisp-tender.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold chicken or vegetables to a hot skillet can lower the temperature, affecting cooking time. Let them reach room temperature first.
• Not stirring frequently: Failing to stir the mixture can result in uneven cooking and burning. Stir regularly, especially when adding sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet covered with foil, reheating for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent sticking, heat over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute boneless pork or tofu for a vegetarian option while maintaining similar cooking methods.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Broccoli or snap peas also add color and nutrition.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge overnight. Just cook it fresh when ready to serve!

Final Thoughts

This Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy Asian flavors at home. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give it a try today!