The name Moo Goo Gai Pan translates to “mushroom chicken slices” in Cantonese, and that’s exactly what this dish is—a delicious stir-fry made with sliced chicken and mushrooms, plus a variety of fresh vegetables, all coated in a light yet flavorful brown sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
For the Stir-Fry:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup button mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms, sliced
½ cup carrots, julienned
½ cup snap peas (or snow peas)
½ cup water chestnuts, sliced (optional)
½ cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
For the Sauce:
¾ cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
For Garnish:
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix sliced chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
Let it sit for 10-15 minutes while preparing the vegetables.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar.
Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the wok.
Stir-fry mushrooms, carrots, snap peas, and onions for 2-3 minutes.
Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the wok.
Pour in the sauce mixture, then stir in the cornstarch slurry.
Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
Tips for the Best Moo Goo Gai Pan
Use Fresh Mushrooms – They add an authentic, earthy flavor.