Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ cup water
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. This helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- In a bowl, toss the sliced chicken with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. The cornstarch helps create a light coating that keeps the chicken tender and slightly crispy when cooked.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are browned and cooked through. The chicken should no longer be pink in the center.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet.
- Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the mushrooms release their moisture.
Step 4: Making the Sauce
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and water. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combining Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce.
- Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serving the Dish
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- How to Tell if the Chicken is Cooked: The best way to check doneness is to cut a piece in half. If the inside is white with no pink, it is fully cooked. A food thermometer can also be used—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Preventing Overcooked Vegetables: Mushrooms release water as they cook. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly, but avoid overcooking, as they can become too soft.
- Avoiding a Soggy Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for an extra minute to thicken. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it.
- Efficient Ingredient Prep: Before turning on the stove, chop all vegetables and measure out the ingredients. This prevents any rush while cooking.
- Using the Right Pan: A large skillet or wok works best for this recipe since it allows even cooking and prevents overcrowding.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes