While Orange Chicken may rule the roost at Panda Express, one of my favorite entrees is actually their Mushroom Chicken. Soft tender strips of stir-fried chicken breast mingle with mushrooms and crisp-tender zucchini in a light sauce perfectly balanced with garlic and ginger.
I’m thrilled to now have a taste twin—with more protein and less fat—that I can make right at home. And even more thrilled that this is an extra quick-fix stir-fry dish. With ingredients assembled, the cooking time is less than 15 minutes! As such, I usually get a side of rice started first. Quick (10-minute) brown rice is a great option.
MAKES 4 SERVINGS
3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons minced garlic
1 ½ teaspoons minced ginger
12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons canola oil
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 medium zucchini sliced into half moons (about 1 pound)
1 8-ounce package sliced mushrooms
1. In a small bowl, combined the first 5 ingredients (soy sauce through ginger) plus 2 tablespoons water; set aside.
2. Slice chicken across the grain into very thin slices. Place in a large bowl and toss with cornstarch. Add both oils to a wok or large nonstick skillet and heat over high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, while tossing, until lightly browned yet barely done. Remove and set aside.
3. Spray the wok with cooking spray, add the zucchini, and toss for 1 minute. Add 2 tablespoons of water, cover, and steam zucchini for 1 minute. Uncover, add mushrooms, and stir-fry just until softened and lightly browned, then add the chicken and the sauce mixture. Cook for an additional minute, tossing until the sauce slightly thickens and evenly coats the chicken and vegetables.
NUTRITION INFORMATION PER SERVING (1 ¼ cups): Calories 180 | Carbohydrate 11g (Sugars 3g) | Total Fat 6g (Sat Fat 1g) | Protein 23g | Fiber 3g | Sodium 415mg | Food Exchanges: 3 ½ Lean Meat, 1 ½ Vegetable | Carbohydrate Choices: ½ | Weight Watcher Smart Point Comparison: 2
