If you’re craving a dish that combines tender chicken with earthy mushrooms in a sauce that bursts with flavor, this Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. Quick to prepare yet incredibly satisfying, it balances savory soy notes, subtle sweetness, and a hint of spice, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels a little special. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe promises a delicious meal that comes together in a flash and brings joy to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this stir-fry lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of taste, texture, and visual appeal. From succulent chicken breast and earthy mushrooms to the essential sauces and aromatics, these simple items come together to create an extraordinary dish.
- 10 oz chicken breast: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites.
- ½ tablespoon cornstarch: Helps to tenderize the chicken and gives the sauce a silky finish.
- 1 pinch salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon water: Used in the marinade to keep the chicken moist.
- 1 drop neutral cooking oil: A light oil that won’t overpower the dish’s flavors.
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami depth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds richness and a subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce: Brings color and a robust flavor profile.
- ½ tablespoon cornstarch (extra): Thickens the sauce perfectly without making it gloopy.
- â…› teaspoon ground black pepper (or white pepper): Gives a gentle heat that lifts the dish.
- 1 pinch sugar: Balances savory elements for harmony.
- 4 tablespoons water: Creates the right sauce consistency.
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses a nutty aroma that makes the stir-fry irresistible.
- 1½ tablespoon neutral cooking oil (divided): For searing chicken and sautéing mushrooms.
- 3 cloves garlic (sliced): Adds fragrant warmth and depth.
- 5 oz button mushrooms (sliced, or fresh shiitake mushrooms): Earthy and juicy, providing excellent texture.
- 1 stalk scallions (finely chopped): Gives a fresh, bright finish and a pop of green color.
How to Make Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breast into thin slices across the grain—this ensures each bite is tender and juicy. Combine the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and water, mixing until every piece is coated well. This simple marinade serves two purposes: it tenderizes the chicken and creates a protective layer that keeps it juicy during cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, blend the light soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, the additional cornstarch, black pepper, sugar, and water. Stir until smooth, then finish with a splash of fragrant sesame oil. This sauce is the flavor powerhouse, offering a balance of salty, sweet, and earthy tones that make this Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe truly shine.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat an empty wok over high heat until it’s almost smoking—this intense heat is key for a beautiful sear. Add one tablespoon of oil, swirling to coat the surface. Spread the chicken slices out in a single layer and let them sear undisturbed just until the edges start to brown. Flip and toss the chicken to cook through, ensuring no pink remains. Once cooked, remove and set aside; this step locks in the chicken’s flavor and texture.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Mushrooms
Add the remaining half tablespoon of oil to the wok. Toss in sliced garlic and sauté for about 10 seconds until fragrant. Then, throw in the mushrooms and toss continuously over high heat. This quick sauté makes the mushrooms release their natural juices and enhances their earthy flavor—an essential component of this Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce and Mushrooms
Turn the heat down to low, or briefly remove the wok from your burner if you’re using an electric stove. Return the chicken to the wok and pour in the prepared sauce. Toss everything together while the sauce thickens, coating each ingredient in a glossy, flavorful glaze. Finally, stir in the freshly chopped scallions for a burst of freshness, then transfer the stir-fry to your serving dish.
How to Serve Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish visually and flavorwise, consider sprinkling toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty crunch or adding a few thin slices of fresh chili if you like it spicy. Fresh cilantro also pairs wonderfully, adding a lively green contrast and a subtle herbaceous note.
Side Dishes
This Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe is fantastic on its own but shines even more when paired with fluffy steamed jasmine rice or warm noodles to soak up that luscious sauce. A crisp side of stir-fried greens, like bok choy or baby spinach, brings a bright, fresh balance to the richness of the main.
Creative Ways to Present
For a visually stunning presentation, serve the stir-fry in a shallow bowl layered over a bed of rice, then drizzled with a light splash of extra sesame oil or a sprinkle of scallions. Alternatively, try stuffing it inside crispy lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on dining experience that’s sure to impress guests at any casual gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious stir-fry, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 2 days, though it’s always best to enjoy this dish as soon as possible to savor the full vibrancy of its flavors and textures.
Freezing
While you can freeze the Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe, be aware that mushrooms may lose some of their texture once thawed. For best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from any fresh garnishes, and consume within 1 to 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving for long periods as the chicken can become rubbery and the mushrooms mushy. A splash of water or broth can help revive the sauce’s consistency as you reheat.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms in this Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap button mushrooms for shiitake, cremini, or even oyster mushrooms depending on what you have on hand. Each variety offers a slightly different texture and flavor, making the dish your own.
Is this stir-fry spicy?
The recipe as written is mild and focuses on savory and umami flavors. However, you can easily add chili flakes or fresh sliced chili peppers if you want to introduce some heat without overpowering the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
While this particular receipt centers on chicken, you can substitute tofu or a mix of hearty vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli instead of the meat. Just be sure to adjust cooking times and sauce ingredients accordingly to maintain that delicious balance.
What’s the secret to tender chicken in this stir-fry?
The marinade with cornstarch and water creates a thin coat that locks in moisture and helps the chicken stay tender during the high-heat stir-frying process. Cutting the chicken thinly and across the grain is equally important for a nice bite.
Can I prepare parts of this Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can slice the chicken and mushrooms ahead, even prepare the sauce in advance. Keep them refrigerated separately and combine everything just before cooking for fresh, vibrant results.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe is one of those dishes that feels effortlessly impressive while being incredibly simple to make. It’s packed with flavor, comes together quickly, and satisfies a variety of tastes thanks to its savory-sweet soy-based sauce and mouthwatering ingredients. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new go-to dinner — trust me, it’s going to be a favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
A quick and flavorful chicken and mushroom stir-fry featuring tender chicken breast slices and sautéed mushrooms in a savory soy-based sauce, perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 10 oz chicken breast, thinly sliced
- ½ tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 drop neutral cooking oil
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- ½ tablespoon cornstarch
- â…› teaspoon ground black pepper (or white pepper)
- 1 pinch sugar
- 4 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
Stir-fry
- 1½ tablespoon neutral cooking oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced
- 5 oz button mushrooms, sliced (or fresh shiitake mushrooms)
- 1 stalk scallions, finely chopped
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Cut the chicken into thin slices across the grain. In a bowl, mix the chicken with ½ tablespoon cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon water until well combined. Stir in 1 drop of neutral cooking oil to coat the chicken evenly for a tender texture.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce, ½ tablespoon cornstarch, ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper, a pinch of sugar, and 4 tablespoons water. Whisk thoroughly until smooth, then add ½ teaspoon sesame oil. Set the sauce aside.
- Heat the wok and sear chicken: Heat an empty wok over high heat until it starts smoking. Add 1 tablespoon of neutral cooking oil and swirl to coat. Spread the marinated chicken pieces evenly in the wok to sear quickly. Flip and toss the chicken once the underside browns slightly. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and no pinkness remains. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.
- Stir-fry the mushrooms: Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of oil to the wok. Add sliced garlic and sizzle for about 10 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and keep the heat high, tossing constantly until the mushrooms begin to sweat and soften.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Reduce heat to low or temporarily remove the wok from the burner if using an electric stove. Return the cooked chicken to the wok, then pour in the prepared sauce. Toss everything together continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients evenly.
- Finish and serve: Stir in the chopped scallions, give everything a final toss, then remove from heat. Serve the stir-fry hot for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu and use vegetarian oyster sauce.
- Use fresh shiitake mushrooms for a more earthy flavor.
- Adjust the amount of chili or pepper based on your spice preference.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
