Easy Moo Goo Gai Pan

Moo Goo Gai Pan is a classic Chinese dish that’s loved for its tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce. This homemade version is way better than takeout, and it comes together in just 20 minutes. Crisp carrots, mushrooms, water chestnuts, and snow peas are stir-fried with juicy chicken and a flavorful sauce that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is simple, healthy, and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 8 ounces water chestnuts
• 1 cup snow peas
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Season cubed chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
• Add remaining olive oil to the skillet and sauté sliced carrots for 1-2 minutes until almost tender.
• Add mushrooms and cook for 1-2 minutes, then stir in water chestnuts and snow peas for another minute.
• In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil to make the sauce.
• Combine cornstarch and water in a separate bowl, then whisk into the sauce.
• Return chicken to the skillet, pour sauce over, and cook until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.
• Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve over steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles for a complete meal.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables.

Variations

1. Swap chicken for beef, pork, or tofu for a different protein option.
2. Add bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
3. Use broccoli or baby corn instead of snow peas.
4. Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or sriracha.
5. Substitute soy sauce with low-sodium tamari for a gluten-free option.
6. Add ginger for an aromatic twist.
7. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a paleo-friendly version.
8. Include baby bok choy for a more authentic Chinese flavor.
9. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch.
10. Add water chestnuts for more texture.
11. Mix in bamboo shoots for variety.
12. Use a mix of shiitake and cremini mushrooms for richer flavor.
13. Swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
14. Serve with quinoa instead of rice for a healthier base.
15. Add cashews or peanuts for a nutty, crunchy element.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
   Yes, both work, but thighs are juicier and less likely to dry out.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Yes, substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh.
4. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
   Absolutely, mix the sauce and refrigerate until ready to cook.
5. What can I serve with Moo Goo Gai Pan?
   Steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles all pair perfectly.
6. Can I freeze leftovers?
   It’s not recommended as vegetables may lose their crispness.
7. How do I thicken the sauce?
   Cornstarch mixed with water thickens it perfectly.
8. Can I add other vegetables?
   Yes, bell peppers, broccoli, or baby corn work great.
9. How long does it take to cook?
   From start to finish, about 20 minutes.
10. Can I make this spicy?
    Yes, add sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chili paste to the sauce.

This Easy Moo Goo Gai Pan recipe is the perfect homemade alternative to takeout. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce, it’s healthy, quick, and incredibly satisfying. Serve it over rice or noodles for a family-friendly meal everyone will love. Experiment with variations to make it your own and enjoy this classic Chinese stir-fry anytime.

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