Name: Chinese Mushroom Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 10oz (280g) chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into cubes); 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons oil; 5 slices ginger (peeled); 4oz (400g) mushroom (cut into halves); 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; to taste salt

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There’s something so comforting about a bowl of Chinese Mushroom Chicken on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I tried this dish; I was at a cozy little restaurant tucked away in a bustling street. The aroma of sautéed ginger and garlic wafting through the air immediately drew me in. Sitting down with friends, we couldn’t wait to dive into the vibrant stir-fry of succulent chicken and earthy mushrooms. It’s become one of my go-to recipes for weeknight dinners, simple yet packed with flavor. Whether I’m cooking for friends or just for myself, this dish never fails to bring warmth and happiness to the table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
5 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
40 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Wooden Spoon, Peeler, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

The Best Thing About This Chinese Mushroom Chicken

A Flavorful Fusion

The magic of Chinese Mushroom Chicken lies in its balance of flavors. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the tender chunks of chicken to the robust flavors of soy sauce and oyster sauce. This dish really brings out the umami, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Quick and Easy

One of the things I love most about this dish is how quick it is to prepare. In less than 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours cooking.

Healthy Ingredients

This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also packed with healthy ingredients. The combination of zucchini and mushrooms adds a nice crunch while providing essential vitamins. Plus, using skinless chicken breast makes it a lean protein choice for those mindful of their diets.

Versatile Dish

Chinese Mushroom Chicken is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, making it a great way to use up what’s left in your fridge.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is perfect for casual weekdays but can also impress guests at dinner parties. It’s a dish that feels fancy without being overly complicated, striking that perfect balance for any gathering.

Family Favorite

Lastly, it’s a hit with my family. Whenever I announce that Chinese Mushroom Chicken is on the menu, I see smiles all around. It’s heartwarming to know that this dish can bring everyone together, making meals a special occasion.

Shopping List for Chinese Mushroom Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial to making a delicious Chinese Mushroom Chicken. Each component contributes to the overall flavor, creating a harmonious blend that’s sure to please. Let’s take a closer look at the key players that come together in this delightful stir-fry.

10oz (280g) boneless and skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes: This is the star of the dish, providing a lean source of protein that soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
1 teaspoon cornstarch: Used for marinating the chicken, it helps create a silky texture and locks in moisture during cooking.
2 tablespoons oil: Essential for stir-frying, choose a neutral oil that can withstand high heat.
5 slices ginger, peeled: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
4oz (400g) mushroom, cut into halves: These earthy morsels add depth and umami to the stir-fry.
8oz (230g) zucchini, cut into pieces: Provides a fresh crunch, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: A key seasoning that brings saltiness and a rich flavor.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a slightly sweet and savory note, enhancing the overall taste.
1 teaspoon sugar: Helps balance the flavors and adds a hint of sweetness.
3 dashes white pepper: Adds a mild heat that complements the other spices.
1/8 teaspoon sesame oil: A fragrant oil that finishes the dish with a nutty aroma.
2 tablespoons water: Used to help create steam in the wok, ensuring even cooking.
1 teaspoon cornstarch: Used again to enhance the sauce’s consistency.
Salt to taste: Seasoning to elevate all the flavors.

Step by Step Guide for Chinese Mushroom Chicken

Cooking Chinese Mushroom Chicken is a straightforward process that yields fantastic results. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. Let’s get cooking!

Start by marinating the chicken with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. This not only tenderizes the meat but also gives the dish a lovely texture. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. This step is essential, as it will make the chicken juicy and flavorful.
While the chicken is marinating, mix together the sauce ingredients. Combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/8 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 2 tablespoons of water. This mixture will coat the chicken and vegetables perfectly.
Heat a wok over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the next ingredients; this is key to achieving a good stir-fry.
Add the ginger slices to the wok. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This is where the aroma starts to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the rest of the dish.
Next, add the marinated chicken to the wok. Stir-fry it for about 3-4 minutes until it turns white. Keep the chicken moving in the pan to cook it evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink inside.
Now it’s time to add the mushrooms and zucchini. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while retaining a bit of crunch. This step adds texture and color to your dish.
Pour the sauce mixture over the stir-fried chicken and vegetables. Stir quickly to ensure everything is well coated. The sauce will start to thicken and cling to the ingredients, creating a beautiful glaze.
Cook everything together for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld. Keep stirring to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the wok.
Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, remove the wok from heat. Your Chinese Mushroom Chicken is now ready to serve!
Dish out the stir-fry onto plates or in bowls. Enjoy it hot, perhaps over a bed of steamed rice for a complete meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Use High Heat: When stir-frying, high heat is crucial. It helps to quickly sear the chicken and vegetables, locking in flavors and moisture.
Prep Ahead: You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time. This makes cooking a breeze when you’re ready to eat.
Don’t Overcrowd: If you’re making a large batch, cook in batches to avoid steaming the ingredients instead of stir-frying.
Get Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality meat will provide the best flavor and texture.

Ways to Customize

Customizing Chinese Mushroom Chicken is an excellent way to make it your own. There are countless variations you can try, depending on your preferences and what you have on hand.

Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Switch Up the Protein: You can easily substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein source.
Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce to adapt this dish for gluten-sensitive diets.
Serve with Noodles: Instead of rice, try serving this stir-fry over noodles for a delicious twist.

How to Enjoy Chinese Mushroom Chicken

Enjoying your Chinese Mushroom Chicken can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. Here are a few ideas:

Pair with Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a satisfying meal.
Include a Side Salad: A light salad can complement the flavors of the stir-fry and add freshness.
Perfect for Lunch Boxes: This dish makes for excellent leftovers. Pack it for a quick lunch the next day.
Great for Gatherings: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
Seasonal Pairing: Depending on the time of year, consider serving seasonal vegetables alongside your stir-fry.

FAQ

Absolutely! Chinese Mushroom Chicken is very versatile. You can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp for a different protein source. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as shrimp cooks faster than chicken.

The great thing about Chinese Mushroom Chicken is that you can customize it with various vegetables. Consider adding bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. The more colorful, the better!

To make Chinese Mushroom Chicken gluten-free, you can use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce. There are many great brands available that cater to gluten-sensitive diets, ensuring you can still enjoy this delicious meal without any gluten.

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You could also serve it alongside a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance out the meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with fried rice for a delightful combination!

Conclusion

In summary, Chinese Mushroom Chicken is a delightful dish that marries tender chicken with savory sauces and fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to the table. I encourage you to try this recipe; I promise it will become a favorite in your household, just like it has in mine!