Cooking chicken with mushrooms Chinese style offers a delightful blend of flavors that is both savory and aromatic. This dish is not only nutritious but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, following these simple steps will help you create a delicious meal that your family and friends will love.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients:
- Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- Mushrooms: 1 cup of fresh mushrooms (shiitake, button, or cremini), sliced
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced
- Green onions: 3-4 stalks, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Oyster sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry): 2 tablespoons
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (for thickening)
- Vegetable oil: 2-3 tablespoons for cooking
- Sugar: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, to balance flavors)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Chicken broth or water: 1/4 cup (optional, for more gravy)
- Red pepper flakes (optional): a pinch for some heat
Preparation
Marinate the Chicken
Begin by preparing the chicken. Place the sliced chicken pieces in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This will help the chicken absorb some flavors and tenderize slightly.
Prepare the Mushrooms
While the chicken is marinating, clean and slice the mushrooms. Remove the stems if using shiitake mushrooms and discard any tough parts. Slice them into bite-sized pieces.
Chop the Aromatics
Mince the garlic and ginger. Chop the green onions, reserving a small portion for garnish.
Cooking Steps
Heat the Pan
Place a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Let the oil heat up until it’s hot but not smoking.
Sear the Chicken
Remove the chicken pieces from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Add the chicken to the hot oil, spreading them out in a single layer. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. This will lock in juices and add flavor. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Cook the Aromatics
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn, as this will make the dish bitter.
Add Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken pieces to the pan. Pour in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. If you like your dish a bit sweeter, add the sugar at this stage.
Simmer
Add the chicken broth or water if you prefer more gravy. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Thicken the Sauce
If the sauce is not thick enough, add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) a little at a time, stirring constantly. The sauce should thicken quickly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish and Serve
Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the chopped green onions (reserve some for garnish). Transfer the chicken and mushrooms to a serving dish. Garnish with the reserved green onions and, if you like some heat, sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Tips and Variations
Chicken Choice: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Mushroom Variety: Experiment with different types of mushrooms to find your favorite. Shiitake mushrooms offer a rich, earthy flavor, while button mushrooms are more mild and accessible.
Heat Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes. You can also use fresh chili peppers if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. It also pairs well with stir-fried vegetables or a side of soup.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken with mushrooms Chinese style is a rewarding experience that yields a flavorful and satisfying dish. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a meal that is not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delicious results!
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