Moo Goo Gai Pan

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moo Goo Gai Pan is a classic Chinese-American dish that features tender slices of chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory light sauce. Known for its simple yet flavorful profile, it’s a wholesome stir-fry that’s both satisfying and easy to make at home. With fresh mushrooms, snow peas, and water chestnuts, this dish offers a perfect blend of texture and taste, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastsoy sauceoystersaucecornstarchchickensesame oilgarlicgingergreen onionswhite button mushroomsbamboo shootssnow peaswater chestnutscarrotsvegetable oil

directions

Slice the chicken breast thinly and marinate with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a splash of sesame oil for 15-20 minutes.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Add marinated chicken and stir-fry until cooked through, then remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, add a bit more oil and stir-fry garlic, ginger, and the white parts of green onions for 30 seconds.

Add mushrooms, carrots, snow peas, bamboo shoots, and water chestnuts. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until crisp-tender.

Return the chicken to the pan and add oyster sauce, a bit more soy sauce, and chicken broth.

Mix a slurry of cornstarch and water and stir into the pan to thicken the sauce.

Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is coated in the glossy sauce.

Top with green onion slices and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 15 minutesMarinating time: 15-20 minutesCooking time: 10-12 minutesTotal time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Use sliced beef, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken for a protein swap.

Add baby corn or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.

Serve over steamed rice, brown rice, or noodles.

Spice it up with red pepper flakes or chili oil.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

What does Moo Goo Gai Pan mean?

It translates from Cantonese as “mushroom chicken slices”—highlighting its key ingredients.

Is Moo Goo Gai Pan healthy?

Yes, it’s generally low in fat and high in lean protein and vegetables, making it a healthy choice.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely, just substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken and use vegetarian oyster sauce.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

Avoid overcooking and stir-fry on high heat for the best texture.

What mushrooms work best?

White button or cremini mushrooms are traditional, but shiitake can also add a deeper flavor.

Can I freeze it?

It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

It adds depth and umami, but you can use hoisin or soy sauce if needed.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just add it near the end to heat through without overcooking.

Do I need a wok?

A large skillet works just fine, though a wok is ideal for even stir-frying.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce to make it gluten-free.

Conclusion

Moo Goo Gai Pan is a light yet satisfying dish that brings together fresh ingredients and traditional flavors in a quick stir-fry. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or just craving Chinese takeout at home, this easy recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting blend of chicken, vegetables, and savory sauce.

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