Mushroom Chicken Copycat Recipe

Recreate the beloved Panda Express Mushroom Chicken right in your own kitchen with this easy, delicious copycat recipe. It features tender chicken breast stir-fried with fresh zucchini and mushrooms, all coated in a savory garlic ginger soy sauce. This homemade version offers the same comforting flavor with healthier, customizable ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
• Healthier than takeout: Less oil and sodium than the restaurant version.
• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
• Customizable: Swap out veggies or protein based on what you have.
• Meal prep friendly: Stores and reheats well for lunches or dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breast, thinly sliced
• Soy sauce
• Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• Cornstarch
• Brown sugar
• Vegetable oil

For the Vegetables:

• Zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• Mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini work best)

For the Sauce:

• Chicken broth or water
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Brown sugar
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch
• Fresh garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, grated

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and brown sugar. Add sliced chicken and marinate for 15–30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In another bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook Vegetables: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry the mushrooms and zucchini until just tender but still crisp.
5. Combine and Sauce: Return chicken to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss everything together. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables.
6. Serve: Serve hot over steamed white rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
• Add more vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
• Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
• Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to avoid overcooking.
• Freezing: Not ideal due to the texture of zucchini, but you can freeze the chicken and sauce portion without the vegetables.

FAQs

What can I serve with mushroom chicken?

This dish is great with steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Store them separately until ready to cook.

What’s a substitute for Shaoxing wine?

Dry sherry or mirin works well. If avoiding alcohol, use a mix of chicken broth and a splash of vinegar.

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely. Try adding bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas for variety.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Increase the cornstarch slightly or let the sauce simmer a bit longer to reduce.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default, but you can easily add heat with chili flakes or hot sauce.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just skip the marinating step and add the cooked chicken during the final stir-fry with the sauce.

What kind of mushrooms are best?

White button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are most traditional, but shiitake or portobello also work.

Is this like the Panda Express version?

Yes, this is a close homemade replica with similar flavors and textures.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure not to overcrowd the pan so the chicken and veggies cook evenly.

Conclusion

This Mushroom Chicken Copycat recipe is a delicious, healthier alternative to your favorite takeout dish. With tender chicken, crisp-tender vegetables, and a savory sauce, it’s an easy and satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for busy nights or weekly meal prep, this dish proves you don’t need to dine out to enjoy restaurant-quality food.

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