Homemade Panda Express Mushroom Chicken: A Delicious Copycat Recipe

Panda Express has charmed diners with its vast array of flavorful dishes, and one standout item that garners attention is the Mushroom Chicken. This delicious blend of tender chicken, succulent mushrooms, and crisp bell peppers served in a savory ginger-soy sauce is a favorite for many. If you’re craving this beloved dish but don’t want to hit the drive-thru, making your own version at home can be both delightful and satisfying.

Ingredients

To whip up your very own Panda Express Mushroom Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced (or any mushroom of your choice)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your sliced chicken. In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips, soy sauce, cornstarch, and white pepper. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb all the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.

Next, add the sliced mushrooms and bell peppers, stir-frying for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the marinated chicken strips to the center. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and everything is well-coated.

Transfer your Mushroom Chicken to a serving dish, and consider garnishing with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Mushroom Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or fried rice, making for a delightful meal any night of the week. You can also serve it with some stir-fried vegetables or spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired feast.

Conclusion

Recreating Panda Express’ Mushroom Chicken at home can be not only easy but a fun way to indulge in your favorite flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking techniques, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying dish that will leave you and your loved ones wanting more. Enjoy your homemade version, and don’t hesitate to experiment with extra vegetables or protein variations to suit your taste!