Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

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Panda Express Mushroom Chicken is a popular dish known for its savory and slightly sweet flavors. This copycat recipe brings together tender chicken, fresh mushrooms, and zucchini in a flavorful sauce, making it a perfect dish for a homemade Asian-inspired meal. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this delicious and easy Panda Express Mushroom Chicken at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 pound (500 grams) boneless and skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced (¼ inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons corn starch

For the Stir-Fry

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

For the Sauce

  • ½ cup water
  • ¼ cup light soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the light soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
  2. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
  3. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the water, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
  2. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  1. Warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a sizable skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  1. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, spreading it out in a single layer.
  2. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Set the chicken aside after removing it from the skillet.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
  2. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the quartered mushrooms and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften.
  4. Add the sliced zucchini and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Cook

  1. Reintroduce the cooked chicken to the skillet alongside the vegetables.
  2. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
  3. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
  4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Transfer the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken to a serving dish.
  2. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Conclusion

This Panda Express Mushroom Chicken copycat recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a popular restaurant dish at home. The tender chicken, fresh mushrooms, and zucchini, combined with a flavorful sauce, make for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delicious taste of this homemade Mushroom Chicken and savor the flavors of this beloved dish.