Panda Express Mushroom Chicken (Copycat Recipe)

Oh my gosh—you’ve got to try this! If you love Panda Express Mushroom Chicken like I do, you’re in for a treat. I figured out how to make it at home, and wow… it’s just like the real thing.

I know how hard it is to find a copycat recipe that actually tastes right. But this one? It’s juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and mushrooms in the most perfect sauce ever.

You don’t need a wok or anything fancy. I did it all in one pan, and dinner was ready super fast. It’s now one of my favorite easy meals.

So, if you’re craving takeout but wanna skip the drive, let me show you how I made it. Let’s get cooking—it’s so simple and so good.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Takeout Taste at Home: This copycat recipe captures the same bold umami flavor without the need to leave the house.
• Healthier Option: Uses lean chicken breast and minimal oil while keeping all the flavor.
• Quick to Make: Ready in about 30 minutes—great for weeknights.
• Balanced Meal: Protein, veggies, and a light sauce in one dish.
• Easy to Customize: Add extra vegetables or tweak the sauce to your liking.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: Serves 4 as a main dish. Can stretch further if served with rice or noodles.

Difficulty Level: Easy—ideal for beginners and busy cooks alike.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this copycat Panda Express dish, gather these tools for a smoother cooking experience:

• Large non-stick skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls (for marinade and sauce)
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Tongs or spatula for sautéing

Ingredients for the Recipe

Chicken and Vegetables

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Vegetable oil
• Mushrooms
• Zucchini
• Garlic
• Fresh ginger

Chicken Marinade

• Light soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch

Stir-Fry Sauce

• Water
• Light soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Brown sugar
• Cornstarch

How to Make Panda Express Mushroom Chicken (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Slice and Marinate the Chicken

Start by thinly slicing the chicken breast into bite-sized strips (about ¼ inch thick). Place the chicken in a bowl and add:

• Light soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch

Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. This quick marinade helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor to every bite.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the stir-fry sauce ingredients:

• Water
• Light soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Brown sugar
• Cornstarch

Stir until the sugar and cornstarch dissolve completely. Set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their moisture.

Add the zucchini and cook for another 2–3 minutes until just tender but still bright. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.

4. Cook the Chicken

In the same pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and let it sear for 2–3 minutes without moving it. Then flip and continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden on the outside.

Add in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for 30 seconds to release their aroma.

5. Combine and Finish

Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the ingredients.

Remove from heat and serve hot.

Variations for Mushroom Chicken

• Add Broccoli: For extra crunch and fiber, lightly steamed broccoli works well here.
• Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer juicier meat, boneless skinless chicken thighs are a good swap.
• Make It Spicy: Add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.
• Try Different Mushrooms: Button mushrooms are classic, but shiitake or cremini add deeper flavor.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari in place of soy sauce and check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

How to Serve Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

This dish is best enjoyed hot and freshly cooked. Here are a few simple serving ideas to turn it into a complete meal:

• With Steamed White or Brown Rice: Classic and lets the savory sauce shine.
• Over Fried Rice: For a more indulgent, restaurant-style experience.
• With Lo Mein or Noodles: Spoon the mushroom chicken over warm noodles for a comforting bowl.
• With Stir-Fried Vegetables: Add extra color and crunch with bell peppers, baby corn, or snap peas.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, low-carb option, spoon the filling into crisp lettuce leaves.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers store well, making this dish great for meal prep.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing in portioned containers.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave gently with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Slice Chicken Evenly: Thin, uniform slices cook quickly and stay tender.
• Pre-Mix the Sauce: Don’t wait to add cornstarch while cooking—have it fully mixed and ready.
• High Heat for Searing: Use medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the chicken and vegetables without overcooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the chicken.
• Add Sauce at the End: This prevents burning and gives you full control over the thickness.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~280 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbohydrates	13 g
Sugar	4 g
Fat	13 g
Saturated Fat	2 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	~600 mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and specific brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes. Thighs will add more juiciness and work just as well in this recipe.

Is this dish spicy?
No. It’s mild and family-friendly, but you can add red pepper flakes or chili sauce if you like heat.

What kind of mushrooms should I use?
Button or cremini mushrooms work best, but shiitake mushrooms are a flavorful option too.

How can I make it vegetarian?
Swap the chicken for tofu or use extra veggies like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. Use a vegetarian oyster sauce substitute if needed.

Conclusion

This Panda Express Mushroom Chicken Copycat is a reliable go-to when you’re craving takeout but want a home-cooked option. It’s quick, full of flavor, and offers a balanced combination of lean protein and vegetables in a light savory sauce. Once you try it, it’ll likely become part of your regular weeknight dinner rotation.