Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry
description :
Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken slices with earthy mushrooms, all tossed in a savory stir-fry sauce. The ingredients are cooked at high heat to create a perfectly balanced dish with a slight crispiness. The stir-fry sauce, typically made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness, enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and mushrooms. Served with rice or noodles, this dish is both satisfying and packed with umami.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 2 cups mushrooms (cremini, white, or shiitake), sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, minced or grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
- Green onions or sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken:
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips against the grain. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- Cook the vegetables:
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced mushrooms, bell pepper, and onion. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and stir for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce (optional), rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the vegetables in the pan and stir well to coat everything.
- Combine chicken and sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss everything together. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water and add it to the pan. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
- Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more soy sauce or pepper if desired.
- Serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
The Story of Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry:
Chicken and mushroom stir-fry is a beloved dish in Asian cuisine, known for its simplicity and the harmony of its flavors. Stir-fries are a cornerstone of many Asian kitchens due to their quick cooking method and the ability to combine proteins, vegetables, and sauces in one pan. The fast cooking process helps retain the nutrients and crunch in the vegetables, making it a healthy and flavorful option for busy weeknights.
The addition of mushrooms not only provides an earthy, umami-rich flavor but also complements the tender chicken perfectly. Sauces like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce are commonly used in stir-fries to deliver a balanced sweetness, saltiness, and depth of flavor.
This dish is versatile, allowing for swaps depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand—other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or bok choy can easily be added. Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry is a great way to enjoy a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal with minimal cleanup, making it a go-to in many households.
