Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
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- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
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- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or shiitake work best)
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- 1 cup snow peas
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- ½ cup carrots, thinly sliced
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- ½ cup bamboo shoots (optional, for crunch)
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- ½ cup water chestnuts, sliced
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- 2 cloves garlic, minced
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- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
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- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
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- 1 cup chicken broth
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- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
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- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
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- 1 teaspoon sugar
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- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Since stir-frying happens quickly, it’s best to have everything ready before you start cooking. Slice the chicken, mushrooms, and vegetables into thin, even pieces for even cooking.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a small bowl, toss the sliced chicken with 1 teaspoon soy sauce and ½ teaspoon cornstarch. Let it sit for 10 minutes to help tenderize the meat.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until just cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the mushrooms, carrots, bamboo shoots, and water chestnuts. Cook for 3 minutes before adding the snow peas.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the chicken broth mixture, stirring to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Drizzle with sesame oil, garnish with green onions, and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
Tips for the Best Moo Goo Gai Pan
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- Velveting the Chicken: The cornstarch marinade makes the chicken extra tender and silky.
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- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Keep them crisp by stir-frying on high heat for a short time.
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- Use a Wok if Possible: It ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding.
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- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of chili flakes or Sriracha for heat.