Name: Chinese Mushroom Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 10 oz boneless and skinless chicken breast (cut into cubes); 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola oil works best); 5 slices ginger (peeled); 4 oz mushrooms (cut into halves (shiitake or button mushrooms are great choices)); 8 oz zucchini (cut into pieces); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 3 dashes white pepper; 1/8 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons water; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening); Salt (to taste)

If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this Chinese Mushroom Chicken. Made with tender chicken breast, earthy mushrooms, and fresh zucchini, this dish is not only vibrant but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Chinese Mushroom Chicken is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that highlights the best of Chinese cuisine. With its savory sauce and vibrant vegetables, it’s a one-pan meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner, this dish is also versatile, allowing you to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins.

The Ingredient Lineup

To whip up this flavorful dish, gather the following ingredients:

10oz (280g) boneless and skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola oil works best)
5 slices ginger, peeled
4oz (400g) mushrooms, cut into halves (shiitake or button mushrooms are great choices)
8oz (230g) zucchini, cut into pieces
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
3 dashes white pepper
1/8 teaspoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening)
Salt to taste

Cook’s Kit

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

Sharp knife: For cutting the chicken and vegetables efficiently.
Cutting board: A stable surface to work on.
Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.
Measuring spoons: For accurate measurements of sauces and seasonings.
Spatula: To stir and toss the ingredients as they cook.

Make Chinese Mushroom Chicken: A Simple Method

Follow these straightforward steps to create your Chinese Mushroom Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken breast with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and a pinch of salt. This will help to tenderize the chicken and create a nice coating when cooked.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a wok or large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking, as this will give the chicken a nice sear.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the sliced ginger and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This will infuse the oil with a wonderful aroma.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

Next, add the halved mushrooms and zucchini to the pan. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 6: Combine and Season

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, white pepper, and sesame oil. Stir everything together to ensure the chicken and veggies are well-coated in the sauce.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of water with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pan and stir well. Cook for an additional minute or two, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary. Serve your Chinese Mushroom Chicken hot, over a bed of steamed rice or alongside noodles for a complete meal.

Budget & Availability Swaps

If you’re in need of alternatives or want to save a few bucks, consider these swaps:

Chicken: Substitute with tofu or shrimp for a different protein.
Mushrooms: Use any variety you have on hand, like portobello or cremini.
Zucchini: Bell peppers or broccoli would also work well in this recipe.
Oyster sauce: Hoisin sauce can be used as a sweeter alternative.

Don’t Do This

Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; this can lead to steaming rather than searing.
Avoid using low-quality soy sauce, as it can affect the flavor of the dish.
Don’t skip the ginger; it adds a critical flavor component that enhances the dish.
Be careful not to overcook the vegetables; they should be tender-crisp for the best texture.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to loosen it up. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Questions People Ask

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While it’s best to use fresh chicken for optimal flavor and texture, you can use thawed frozen chicken. Ensure it is completely thawed before cooking for even cooking.

What can I serve with Chinese Mushroom Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried greens for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and ensure that the sauces you use are vegetarian-friendly.

How spicy is this dish?

This Chinese Mushroom Chicken recipe is not spicy. However, you can add chili flakes or fresh chili for a kick if you prefer some heat!

Let’s Eat

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to cook up a storm! This Chinese Mushroom Chicken is not only delicious but also a quick meal that the whole family will love. With its savory flavors and tender ingredients, it will soon become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy every bite and savor the satisfaction of a homemade dish that’s bursting with flavor!