Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving that irresistible flavor from your favorite Chinese takeout, you’re going to love this Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat recipe. It captures all the savory, umami-packed goodness of the original dish, featuring tender chicken paired with earthy mushrooms and crisp zucchini, bathed in a glossy, slightly sweet soy-based sauce. Each bite brings that comforting, restaurant-quality taste right into your own kitchen, making it a perfect go-to for a satisfying dinner that impresses without the hassle of takeout.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to create a bold and delicious dish. Every component plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken breast that soaks up the marinade, to fresh mushrooms and zucchini adding great texture, and the sauces melding into a luscious glaze with just the right balance of sweet and savory.

• 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breast: Thinly sliced to ensure quick cooking and maximum tenderness in every bite.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for high-heat searing that locks in juicy flavor.
• 2 cups mushrooms: Cleaned and quartered to bring earthy depth and a meaty texture.
• 1 large zucchini: Cut into half circles for a subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
• 3 minced garlic cloves: Add sharp, aromatic layers that awaken the palate.
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger: Offers a zesty warmth that complements the chicken beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce: Essential for that classic salty umami punch, used both in marinade and sauce.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds brightness and a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Gives a nutty aroma that makes the dish truly special.
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch: Divided use to create that signature silky sauce and to tenderize the chicken.
• 1/2 cup water: Helps to create the perfect consistency for the savory sauce.
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds layers of depth and a mild sweetness enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar: Sweetens the sauce just enough to brighten the savory notes without overpowering.

How to Make Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing together 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a medium bowl. This marinade is where the chicken gets its juicy, flavorful base. Add your thinly sliced chicken breast and toss until every piece is well-coated. For the best results, let it marinate for 20 to 30 minutes or even leave it overnight in the fridge to really let those flavors soak in deeply.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate small bowl, whisk together 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. This mix will become your rich, glossy sauce that perfectly ties all the ingredients together when stirred over the heat.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat until it’s smoking hot—this ensures a nice sear. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer to avoid overcrowding, which is key for getting that golden crust. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides, flipping and stirring as needed. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside to rest.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, toss in the mushrooms and zucchini. Sauté them until they just turn crisp-tender, about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often to keep everything evenly cooked. This quick sauté ensures the vegetables retain a natural bite and vibrant color, providing a fresh contrast to the savory chicken.

Step 5: Add Aromatics and Chicken Back

Lower the heat to medium-low and add the chicken back into the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about a minute until fragrant. These aromatics will infuse the dish, elevating the flavor with their warm, slightly spicy notes without becoming overpowering.

Step 6: Finish with the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring everything together to coat evenly. Continue to cook and stir as the sauce thickens into a glossy, luscious glaze that clings beautifully to every ingredient. This step brings all the flavors into harmony, completing the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat with that restaurant-style finish.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

For the best experience, serve this dish hot from the pan so the sauce maintains its silky texture and the chicken remains juicy. Nothing beats that fresh, homemade goodness that’s bursting with flavor.

How to Serve Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

Garnishes

To make your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat presentation pop, sprinkle thinly sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top. These simple touches add a fresh crunch and an inviting aroma, making your dish look as stunning as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This savory chicken and mushroom dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice, which soaks up the fantastic sauce. For a lower-carb option, serve alongside cauliflower rice or a crisp Asian-style slaw to bring a refreshing crunch and balance the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or mix up your weekday dinner routine, serve your Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat in individual bowls topped with sliced avocado or fresh cilantro sprigs. You could also place the chicken mixture over sautéed noodles for a fusion twist that combines textures and flavors in a fun, unexpected way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat stores really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to keep the flavors fresh and prevent any sogginess from forming in the sauce.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish if you want to enjoy it later. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible. Frozen, it will maintain good quality for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving directly as it may make the chicken rubbery or the vegetables limp. Stir frequently to heat evenly and preserve that fresh-cooked texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?

Absolutely! While button mushrooms work great, you can use cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms for different flavors and textures. Just make sure to slice them similarly to ensure even cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, this Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat is not spicy, making it perfect for all palates. If you enjoy a little heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some fresh chili slices when cooking the aromatics.

Can I substitute chicken with tofu or another protein?

Yes, tofu is a wonderful vegetarian substitute. Use firm or extra-firm tofu, press out excess moisture, and marinate similarly before cooking to absorb all the delicious flavors. Shrimp or thinly sliced beef could also work nicely if you prefer.

What type of rice vinegar is best to use here?

Light or seasoned rice vinegar works well. Light rice vinegar offers a milder acidity which blends seamlessly in this recipe, enhancing flavors without overpowering the dish’s natural balance.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little more water, a teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. To thicken, simply cook it a bit longer or add a touch more cornstarch slurry mixed with water to avoid lumps.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something incredibly satisfying about recreating your favorite dishes at home, especially one as delicious as this Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat. It’s approachable enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to serve to guests when you want to impress. So why wait? Grab those simple ingredients and start cooking this comforting, flavorful meal that will quickly become one of your family’s favorites.

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