Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

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Skip the takeout and savor the flavor of homemade Panda Express Mushroom Chicken! This copycat recipe delivers tender chicken, juicy mushrooms, and crisp zucchini, all coated in a sweet and savory garlic-ginger sauce that clings to every bite. It’s fast, fresh, and ready in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight dinner favorite that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Whether you’re a fan of Panda Express or just love a solid stir-fry, this dish is a must-try. It pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles and brings that signature Asian-inspired restaurant taste right to your kitchen. The glossy sauce, the hint of sesame, and the vibrant veggies make every bite pop.

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What Cut of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the gold standard here. They stay juicy and flavorful even after stir-frying over high heat. Chicken breasts will work in a pinch but be mindful not to overcook them as they dry out more quickly.

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Ingredients for the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

• Chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, these hold up beautifully in high-heat cooking.
• Zucchini: Adds a slight crunch and soaks up the sauce deliciously.
• Mushrooms: Earthy and meaty, they balance the sweet-savory glaze.
• Soy sauce: The umami backbone of the sauce.
• Hoisin sauce: Brings sweetness and depth.
• Garlic and ginger: Essential aromatics for bold flavor.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and lightly coat the chicken.
• Sesame oil: A finishing touch for that nutty, toasty aroma.
• Green onions & sesame seeds: For garnish and extra texture.

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How To Make the Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

Cut your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a bowl with a spoonful of cornstarch, a splash of soy sauce, and a pinch of black pepper. Let them marinate for 10–15 minutes to tenderize and absorb flavor.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Stir well until smooth. Set aside—this will be the magic that brings it all together.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and sear the marinated chicken in batches so it browns instead of steams. Cook for 4–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and stir-fry the zucchini and mushrooms until just tender, about 3–5 minutes. You want them to retain some bite.

Step 5: Combine and Glaze

Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything together and cook for 2–3 more minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to every piece.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or your favorite grain.

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How to Serve and Store Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

Serve this dish fresh and hot over a bed of jasmine or brown rice. It also works well over lo mein or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For a full meal, add egg rolls or a light Asian slaw on the side.

To store, let it cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or microwave until heated through. Avoid freezing as the vegetables may lose their texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the chicken tender?

Use chicken thighs and marinate with cornstarch and soy sauce. Avoid overcooking and stir-fry quickly over high heat.

Can I substitute the vegetables?

Yes! Bell peppers, snow peas, or broccoli are great swaps or additions to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce (or tamari) and ensure all other sauce ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh, and ensure your sauces are vegetarian-friendly.

What if I don’t have hoisin sauce?

You can substitute with a mix of soy sauce, a bit of brown sugar, and a touch of rice vinegar or peanut butter for body.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Add an extra half teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a splash of water and stir into the sauce during cooking.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Panda Express Mushroom Chicken, you might enjoy these flavorful dinners too:

• Garlic Chicken Lo Mein with tender noodles and a savory twist.
• One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for cheesy comfort in every bite.
• Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff when you’re craving something creamy and cozy.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for effortless meal prep.
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet if you’re in the mood for bold, buttery goodness.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use zucchini or try another veggie mix? Did you double the sauce (I always do!)?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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