Imagine walking through your kitchen, and the mouthwatering aroma of sautéed garlic and ginger fills the air. It’s that magical moment when you know something delicious is about to unfold. Today, I’m excited to share my Quick and Easy Copycat Panda Express Mushroom Chicken—a dish that transforms humble ingredients into a vibrant weeknight winner.
I was on a mission to recreate that takeout magic at home, and let me tell you, this dish does not disappoint! With tender chicken strips seared to perfection and an abundance of crisp vegetables, you can have a flavorful dinner ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s completely customizable—swap in your favorite veggies or make it gluten-free with a quick soy sauce adjustment.
Set aside those greasy takeout bags and join me in making this delightful stir-fry that brings both comfort and convenience to your table. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Why is Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat a Must-Try?
Speedy Preparation: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking under 30 minutes from prep to plate.
Flavor Explosion: Enjoy bold garlic, ginger, and umami-rich mushrooms that create a satisfying dish everyone will love.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily adapt it with your choice of veggies or proteins, making it a family favorite for any palate.
Healthier Alternative: Cooked at home and tailored to your needs, it’s a guilt-free indulgence compared to takeout.
Crowd Pleaser: This dish impresses both family and friends, transforming your dinner into a memorable experience.
Feel free to explore more tweaks and adaptations, and make this recipe your own!
Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – Thinly sliced for quick cooking; chicken thighs offer a richer flavor.
• Corn Starch – Helps tenderize the chicken and thicken the sauce for a glossy finish.
For the Vegetables
• Mushrooms – Provide umami flavor and texture; portobello or shiitake can elevate the dish.
• Zucchini – Adds moisture and color; substitute with bell peppers or broccoli for variety.
• Garlic – Freshly minced for the best aromatic flavor; it’s essential in this dish.
• Ginger – Grated fresh ginger enhances warmth and spice for a comforting touch.
For the Sauce
• Light Soy Sauce – A crucial base for both the marinade and sauce; use tamari for gluten-free options.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances flavor with a hint of acidity; don’t skip this for a well-rounded dish.
• Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty depth that’s characteristic of Asian-inspired cuisines.
• Oyster Sauce – Introduces sweetness and depth; hoisin sauce can be a great alternative.
• Brown Sugar – Counterbalances the savory notes in the sauce; can be replaced with honey or coconut sugar.
For Cooking
• Vegetable Oil – Ideal for sautéing, ensuring a good sear on chicken and veggies; can substitute with canola or peanut oil.
• Water – Necessary for achieving the right sauce consistency; adjust as needed.
Let’s bring the flavors of a Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat dish right to your dinner table!
How to Make Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine light soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and corn starch. Coat the thinly sliced chicken strips in the mixture and let them marinate for 20-30 minutes; overnight is best for deeper flavor.
- Prepare Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together water, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and an additional tablespoon of corn starch. Set this aside as you move on to the next steps.
- Sear Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t crowded. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, then remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped mushrooms and zucchini. Sauté until crisp-tender, about 2-3 minutes, enjoying the aroma as they cook.
- Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat to medium and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat. Continue to stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy finish. Serve immediately for the best experience.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or green onions for added flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat
Feel free to let your creativity shine while preparing this dish; there’s a world of delightful twists waiting for you!
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of light soy sauce for a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor.
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots for an extra splash of color and nutrients. These bright veggies not only enhance the dish visually but also add different textures and tastes.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein experience; each offers a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste to the sauce for heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance. It’s a simple addition that transforms the dish into a fiery delight.
- Sweet Alternative: Substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness; each option lends its own character to the dish.
- Nutty Flavor Boost: Toss in some toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts during the final stir-fry for an added crunch and nutty flavor explosion.
- Crispy Texture: For added texture, top the chicken with fried onions or crispy shallots right before serving; it’s a fun, crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fragrant finish; they brighten the overall flavor with a fresh twist.
Embrace these variations to make the recipe suited to your taste, and let every meal feel special!
Expert Tips for Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat
- High Heat Searing: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding chicken. This step creates that essential golden-brown sear and prevents steaming.
- Flavor Boosting Marinade: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. This enhances tenderness and infuses it with richer tastes.
- Veggie Timing: When adding extra vegetables, choose those with similar cooking times. This ensures everything cooks evenly without over or undercooking any ingredients.
- Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water while cooking to achieve your desired consistency. The perfect finishing touch is essential for this Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat!
- Recipe Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas for added nutrients and color; adjust cooking time as necessary.
Make Ahead Options
These Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat meal prep options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply. Additionally, chop your mushrooms and zucchini ahead and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their crispness. When you’re ready to serve, simply sear the marinated chicken, cook the prepped vegetables, and combine everything with the prepared sauce for a quick finish. This way, you’ll enjoy a satisfying dinner that tastes just as delicious as fresh, without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating on the stovetop helps maintain the dish’s texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Airtight Sealing: Always ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
What to Serve with Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat?
Bring your dinner to life with these delightful pairings that complement the savory stir-fry perfectly.
- Jasmine Rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice absorbs the rich sauce and provides a classic contrast to the chicken. It’s a comforting staple that elevates any meal.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of colorful veggies, such as bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots, adds freshness and crunch while enhancing the Asian-inspired theme.
- Garlic Noodles: Flavorful noodles tossed in garlic and soy sauce create a hearty side that pairs deliciously with the glossy chicken stir-fry. They’re a comforting addition that brings warmth to the table.
- Fresh Spring Rolls: Crisp, veggie-packed rolls offer a light, refreshing balance to the dish, making them perfect for an appetizer or side.
- Coconut Milk Soup: A creamy, fragrant soup can enhance the meal’s flavors while providing a delightful east-meets-west twist. The lightness of the soup complements the richness of the chicken.
- Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed green beans drizzled with sesame oil create a sweet, nutty flavor that complements the umami goodness of the mushroom chicken. They add a vibrant touch to your plate.
- Chilled Soba Noodles: These smooth, buckwheat noodles served cold with a light dipping sauce can be a refreshing side dish that balances the warmth of the chicken.
- Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet dessert option, this classic Thai dish offers a delightful finish, blending the flavors of coconut and ripe mango to cleanse the palate after the savory meal.
Shine a spotlight on your dinner with these delicious accompaniments, ensuring a satisfying and memorable feast!
Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the recipe?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a quick-cooking option. However, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking!
How should I store leftovers from the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat to maintain that delicious texture.
Can I freeze the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat?
Absolutely! Once cooled, you can freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then warm it up in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick while cooking, simply add a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir it well, and allow it to cook for another minute to blend the flavors together.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! For gluten-free options, you can substitute regular soy sauce with tamari. Additionally, always check labels for allergens if cooking for someone with food sensitivities, particularly with sauces like oyster sauce or any packaged ingredients.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just ensure the vegetables you choose have similar cooking times to the mushrooms and zucchini so that everything cooks evenly and stays crisp-tender.
Savory Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine light soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and corn starch. Coat the thinly sliced chicken strips in the mixture and let them marinate for 20-30 minutes; overnight is best for deeper flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together water, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and an additional tablespoon of corn starch. Set this aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, cooking until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped mushrooms and zucchini, sautéing until crisp-tender, about 2-3 minutes.
- Lower the heat to medium and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy finish. Serve immediately.