String Bean Chicken Breast from Panda Express features tender chicken breast stir-fried with crisp green string beans and sliced mushrooms, all coated in a savory ginger soy sauce that delivers a flavorful and satisfying Asian-inspired dish.
Equipments
- Wok
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula or wok turner
- Small bowl (for sauce mixing)
- Plate (for resting cooked ingredients)
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups green string beans
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Use fresh green string beans for the best crunch and flavor, as frozen ones may become mushy when stir-fried. Shaoxing wine adds authentic depth to the sauce, but dry sherry is a suitable substitute if you don't have it on hand. Marinate the chicken breast briefly with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt to enhance tenderness and help the sauce adhere better. Ensure the ginger and garlic are finely minced to evenly distribute their aroma throughout the dish. Your homemade String Bean Chicken Breast from Panda Express copycat will capture the perfect balance of savory and umami flavors found in the original menu item.
Instructions
- Slice chicken breast thinly against the grain.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper; mix and marinate for 10–15 minutes.
- Trim ends off string beans and cut into 2-inch pieces; slice mushrooms.
- In a small bowl, combine remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, sesame oil, and set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
- Add marinated chicken; stir-fry until chicken is just cooked through. Remove and set aside on a plate.
- Add remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the wok.
- Add ginger and garlic; stir-fry for 10–15 seconds until fragrant.
- Add string beans; stir-fry for 1–2 minutes.
- Add mushrooms; continue stir-frying for another 2 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Return cooked chicken to the wok.
- Pour sauce over chicken and vegetables.
- Stir-fry everything together for 1–2 minutes until well coated and heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
String Bean Chicken Breast from Panda Express is a popular dish featuring tender chicken breast stir-fried with crisp green string beans and mushrooms in a savory ginger soy sauce. If fresh string beans are unavailable, snap peas or asparagus can serve as a crunchy and flavorful substitute without drastically altering the taste. Shaoxing wine can be replaced with dry sherry or a splash of rice vinegar mixed with a pinch of sugar to maintain the authentic profile. When cooking, make sure to evenly coat your chicken and vegetables in sauce for balanced flavor and use a hot wok to achieve the distinct wok hei aroma. Your dish will benefit from resting the cooked ingredients briefly on a plate before combining to develop a harmonious texture.
Tips
When slicing your chicken breast, make sure to cut against the grain to ensure tenderness. Marinating the chicken for at least 10-15 minutes with soy sauce and cornstarch will help lock in moisture and improve texture. Prepping all ingredients before heating your wok is crucial since stir-frying requires quick, high-heat cooking. You should always cook the chicken separately first to avoid overcooking and then combine it with vegetables and sauce for even flavor distribution.
Nutritions
Your String Bean Chicken Breast from Panda Express is a lean source of protein thanks to the boneless, skinless chicken breast, supporting muscle repair and growth. The green string beans add a good amount of dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, promoting digestive health and immune function. Mushrooms contribute additional B vitamins and minerals such as selenium, while the ginger and garlic add phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory benefits. The dish remains relatively low in calories and fat, especially with controlled use of vegetable oil and sesame oil, making it a nutritious, balanced meal option.
Storage
Store String Bean Chicken Breast in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate your leftovers promptly and consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety. Reheat gently in a wok or microwave to preserve the texture of the chicken and crispness of the string beans.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute snap peas or asparagus for string beans to add a different crunch and a slight variation in flavor. Instead of oyster sauce, use hoisin sauce or a vegetarian mushroom sauce for a plant-based alternative that maintains umami depth. For a smoky twist, try cooking the chicken over high heat in a cast-iron skillet rather than a wok. Marinating the chicken for 30 minutes instead of 10-15 will intensify the flavors and tenderize the meat further.
Allergies
String Bean Chicken Breast contains soy sauce and oyster sauce, both common allergens due to soy and shellfish derivatives. Sesame oil is also known to trigger allergic reactions in some individuals sensitive to sesame seeds. If you have allergies to soy, shellfish, or sesame, make sure to verify all ingredient labels and consider alternatives to keep your meal safe.
Why this recipe?
Panda Express' String Bean Chicken Breast menu is popular for its tender chicken breast stir-fried with crisp string beans, delivering a balanced combination of protein and fresh vegetables. This dish offers a flavorful, low-calorie option that appeals to health-conscious diners seeking a savory yet nutritious meal. You benefit from replicating this recipe at home by controlling ingredients and customizing flavors while enjoying a restaurant-quality dish. Making the copycat version also saves money and provides a satisfying culinary experience that matches the original's taste and texture.