Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat Recipe You’ll Love

If you’ve ever craved the savory, rich flavors of Panda Express’s Mushroom Chicken, you’re in for a treat. This mushroom chicken copycat recipe lets you recreate that same delicious experience right in your own kitchen, with tender chicken and earthy mushrooms coated in a flavorful sauce.

this Recipe

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with ingredients you can find at any grocery store.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic flavor that mirrors the beloved Panda Express dish.
• Simple ingredients and easy steps anyone can follow.
• Ready in under 30 minutes for a fast, satisfying meal.
• Perfectly balanced savory sauce with tender chicken and juicy mushrooms.
• Great for meal prep or serving fresh with rice or veggies.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your mushroom chicken come alive with flavor and texture.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz fresh white or cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving

How to Make Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Sauté sliced mushrooms until browned and tender, about 4 minutes.
4. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Return chicken to the skillet. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chicken broth, and white pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a gentle boil and then reduce heat. Stir the cornstarch slurry again and slowly add it to the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Cook for another 2 minutes to let flavors meld and sauce thicken to a glossy finish.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or your favorite side.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more tender meat.
• Make sure to slice mushrooms evenly for consistent cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook chicken in batches if needed to get a nice sear.
• Adjust sauce thickness by adding more or less cornstarch slurry.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic for the most vibrant flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover mushroom chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day.

For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breast tends to be leaner and can dry out more easily. Cook carefully and avoid overcooking to keep it tender.

What mushrooms work best in this recipe?

White button or cremini mushrooms are great choices because they hold their texture well and have a mild flavor that complements the sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, since soy sauce and oyster sauce typically contain gluten. Substitute with gluten-free tamari and gluten-free oyster sauce to make it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before serving. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight.