Name: Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast (thinly sliced, about ¼ inch thick); 2 cups mushrooms (sliced); 1 zucchini (cut into half circles); sesame seeds (for garnish); 1 Tablespoon soy sauce; 1.5 Tablespoon Shaoxing wine (can substitute cooking wine); 2 teaspoon corn starch; 0.5 teaspoon brown sugar; 3 Tablespoons chicken stock; 1 Tablespoon soy sauce; 1 Tablespoon oyster sauce; 1.5 teaspoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon Chinese black vinegar (can substitute rice vinegar); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 0.75 teaspoon ginger (grated)

Introduction to Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Craving that delicious Panda Express Mushroom Chicken but don’t feel like heading out? You’re not alone! Making a copycat version at home opens up a world of flavor and comfort, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dish without the takeout hassle. Plus, when you cook at home, you can customize ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs—think less sodium or even adding extra veggies!

Why make a copycat recipe?

Replicating Panda Express Mushroom Chicken in your own kitchen comes with several perks. For one, it’s often more cost-effective than dining out. Think about it: a simple grocery list can yield a deliciously satisfying meal for a fraction of the restaurant price. Additionally, being in control of the cooking process means you can experiment with flavors and adjust spices to your liking.

But it’s not just about the savings; it’s also about the experience. Cooking at home can be a fantastic stress reliever—a chance to unwind after a busy day. Gather your friends or family for a cooking night, and who knows? You might even create new traditions around your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat dish! So, put on your apron and get ready to impress with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Creating a delightful Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat dish at home is easier than you might think! Let’s break down the essential ingredients you’ll need to whip up this flavorful meal.

Essential Ingredients List

1 lb chicken breast - thinly sliced, about ¼ inch thick
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cups mushrooms - sliced
1 zucchini - cut into half circles
Sesame seeds - for garnish (optional)

Marinade Components

For that tender, flavorful chicken, you'll want to marinate with:

1 tablespoon soy sauce
1½ tablespoons Shaoxing wine - substitute with cooking wine if necessary
2 teaspoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon brown sugar

Sauce Ingredients

The sauce brings everything together with a perfect balance of flavors. Gather these:

3 tablespoons chicken stock
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1½ teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon Chinese black vinegar - can use rice vinegar if unavailable
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic - minced
¾ teaspoon ginger - grated

With these ingredients in hand, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a delicious homemade version of Panda Express’s Mushroom Chicken. Happy cooking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Cooking your own version of Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat at home can be a delightful experience. Not only does it let you control the ingredients, but it also makes for a perfect weeknight meal. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to bring this popular dish to life in your kitchen.

Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken for maximum flavor. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon soy sauce
1½ tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or cooking wine as a substitute)
2 teaspoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon brown sugar

Add in 1 pound of thinly sliced chicken breast, ensuring each piece is nicely coated in the marinade. For optimal results, let this mixture marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—or better yet, let it sit overnight! If you're pressed for time, you can allow it to sit while you prep the rest.

Prepare the Sauce

While your chicken is marinating, get started on the sauce that will elevate your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat. In a small bowl, mix together:

3 tablespoons chicken stock
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1½ teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon Chinese black vinegar (or rice vinegar as a substitute)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 cloves minced garlic
¾ teaspoon grated ginger

Set this aside; it’s the cherry on top that brings the entire dish together!

Cook the Chicken for Perfect Sear

Heat up a wok or a heavy skillet over high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Lay the marinated chicken in a single layer, leaving out the marinade. It’s crucial to avoid overcrowding the pan here—give each piece room to get that golden-brown sear. Cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, then flip to sear the other side. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.

Sauté Mushrooms and Zucchini

Now, it’s time to add some vegetables to your dish! In the same skillet, throw in 2 cups of sliced mushrooms and a zucchini cut into half-circles. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly. The beauty of this method is that the residual flavors from the chicken enhance the vegetables beautifully!

Combine and Finish with Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and return the chicken to the pan. Now it’s time to pour in your prepared sauce! If you're a fan of less sauce, feel free to use about half of it. Stir everything together and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Top with sesame seeds for that extra crunch and serve immediately.

And just like that, you have a delicious homemade version of Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat! Enjoy it over steamed rice or mixed veggies for a wholesome meal.

Variations on Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Add vegetables for a colorful twist

Want to brighten up your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat? Toss in a variety of vegetables! Bell peppers, snap peas, or even broccoli add vibrant colors and essential nutrients. Not only do they enhance the visual appeal of your dish, but they also bring different textures and flavors that complement the mushrooms and chicken beautifully. Simply sauté these veggies alongside mushrooms and zucchini for a full plate that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

Use different proteins for variety

Feeling adventurous? Switch up the protein in your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat by using turkey, tofu, or shrimp. Each option provides a unique taste and texture. For a lighter dish, try chicken breast or turkey breast; for seafood lovers, shrimp offers a quick cook time and a delightful twist. You’ll find that each protein pairs wonderfully with the savory sauce, making it a versatile recipe suited for any palate.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

To elevate your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat, consider these helpful tips. First, the marination is crucial—letting your chicken sit overnight enhances the flavors significantly. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients like locally sourced vegetables for the best results.

When cooking, make sure your pan is hot before adding chicken; this helps achieve a perfect sear and preserves moisture. Don't skip the garlic and ginger; they add depth to your dish. If you'd like to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. Finally, serve your chicken over steamed rice or noodles to complete the meal! Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Best sides to complement the dish

To elevate your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat, pair it with fantastic sides that balance flavors and textures. Consider serving:

Steamed jasmine rice: The perfect canvas to soak up the savory sauce.
Stir-fried bok choy: This adds a crispy green element that's both nutritious and delicious.
Garlic broccoli: Adding a punch of flavor, it pairs beautifully with the mushrooms.
Spring rolls: Crunchy, savory bites that make for a delightful appetizer.

Presentation ideas to impress your friends

Presentation is key when impressing your guests. Try these simple tips:

Serve the chicken in a vibrant bowl, garnished with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro.
Add a colorful assortment of veggies around the dish to create a feast for the eyes.
Use chopsticks for an authentic touch, and consider a decorative platter to enhance the experience.

With these simple serving suggestions, your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat will shine on any dining table!

Time Breakdown for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Prep time
To get started, set aside about 15 minutes for prepping your ingredients. This includes marinating the chicken, slicing the vegetables, and mixing the sauce. If you want to optimize flavor, consider marinating the chicken longer, even up to overnight.

Cook time
Once you're ready to cook, it will take around 15 minutes on the stovetop. This includes searing the chicken and sautéing the veggies to perfection.

Total time
In total, you can expect to spend 30 minutes to whip up this delicious Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat dish. It's the perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn't compromise on taste! For more tips and variations, check out this article on meal prep.

Nutritional Facts for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Calories

One serving of this delightful Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat packs in about 192 calories. This makes it a guilt-free option for those looking to indulge in takeout flavors without the calories that often come with them.

Protein Content

With a robust 28 grams of protein per serving, this dish is a fantastic way to fuel your day! The lean chicken breast is not only delicious but also provides the protein needed to support muscle growth and recovery, making it a perfect choice for anyone leading an active lifestyle.

Sodium Levels

While it's important to enjoy flavors, being mindful of sodium intake is crucial. This recipe contains approximately 781 mg of sodium per serving. If you're watching your sodium levels, consider using reduced-sodium soy sauce or other alternatives to cut back without sacrificing taste.

This Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat is not just easy to prepare but also considerate of your nutritional needs. Whether you're meal prepping or serving up a weeknight dinner, the balance of flavors and nutrients will leave you satisfied!

FAQ about Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in advance, allowing it to absorb those delicious flavors. If you’d like, you can prepare the entire dish and refrigerate it. Just reheat it in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

What if I don’t have certain ingredients?

No need to worry! While the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat recipe calls for specific ingredients, many can be substituted. For instance, if you lack Shaoxing wine, using chicken broth or apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch. Feel free to swap out mushrooms for your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or broccoli, to suit your taste.

How to store leftovers properly?

To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will maintain the flavors and integrity of the dish for up to three days. If you're looking to extend its life, consider freezing it—just be aware that some texture might change after thawing.

For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out this guide on food replacements!

Conclusion on Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

In summary, this Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat recipe allows you to enjoy a takeout favorite from the comfort of your kitchen. With tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a savory sauce, it’s both satisfying and easy to make. Don’t hesitate to share your cooking experience or any modifications you made!