Name: Moo Shu Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 pound (454 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce, divided; 2 eggs, lightly beaten and seasoned with salt and pepper; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or arrowroot powder); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (remaining); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated or finely minced; 1 cup (226 g) shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced; 1 cup (70 g) green cabbage, thinly sliced; 1 cup (128 g) carrots, julienned; 1 cup (100 g) green onions, thinly sliced

Jump to Recipe·4 from 84 reviews

If you’ve ever craved a dish that combines vibrant veggies, tender chicken, and a flavor punch that makes your taste buds dance, this Moo Shu Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s quick to whip up on any weeknight yet rich with layers of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet notes that perfectly complement the crisp textures. This dish truly celebrates the magic of combining simple, fresh ingredients into a harmonious, comforting meal that feels special every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of various cooking ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center, a white bowl holds light pink sliced raw chicken. Surrounding it are clear glass bowls with thin sliced light green cabbage, brown and white sliced mushrooms, bright orange thin carrot strips, and green sliced spring onions. Smaller clear bowls contain minced garlic and grated yellow ginger. There are two brown eggs in a small white bowl near the bottom right. Three small glasses hold different liquids, one dark brown, the others light yellow and clear. The layout is clean and bright, showing fresh and vibrant ingredients, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Moo Shu Chicken Recipe are straightforward but absolutely essential for capturing the authentic balance of flavors and textures you’re after. Each component plays a role, from the tender chicken to the crisp vegetables and the glossy, thick sauce that brings it all together.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 pound): Thinly sliced for quick cooking and perfect tenderness.
Eggs (2, lightly beaten): Adds a silky texture and a mild richness, seasoned simply with salt and pepper.
Soy sauce (4 tablespoons, divided): A salty, umami backbone split between marinating the chicken and enriching the sauce.
Hoisin sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings a sweet, deep flavor essential for authentic moo shu taste.
Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a bright, tangy lift to balance the richness of the sauce.
Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce beautifully, binding everything in a glossy coating.
Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Needed for sautéing both the chicken and the veggies to flavorful perfection.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Delivers fragrant warmth and depth.
Ginger (1 teaspoon, grated or minced): A hint of zing that brightens the whole dish.
Shiitake mushrooms (1 cup, thinly sliced): Earthy and meaty, adding texture and umami complexity.
Green cabbage (1 cup, thinly sliced): Offers crispness and mild sweetness.
Carrots (1 cup, julienned): Adds color, crunch, and subtle natural sweetness.
Green onions (1 cup, thinly sliced): Fresh and sharp, garnishing the dish with brightness and a mild onion flavor.

How to Make Moo Shu Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing those thin slices of chicken in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. This quick marinade infuses the chicken with umami flavor and ensures every bite is juicy and delicious. Letting it sit for about 15 minutes is a simple but crucial step to develop that savory base.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken marinates, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch in a small bowl. This magical mixture will turn into the rich, slightly sweet sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables at the end, thickening up perfectly as it cooks.

Step 3: Cook the Eggs

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and pour in the beaten eggs. Let them cook undisturbed until mostly set, then flip carefully to finish. The goal is a soft and tender omelet, which you’ll slice into thin strips to mix in later, adding a lovely silkiness to the dish.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and sear it until each piece is golden and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, remove it from the pan to keep warm while you cook the veggies.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and toss in the garlic and ginger. Sauté for a minute until fragrant, then add the cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and green onions. Cook these vibrant veggies for 4 to 6 minutes until they soften just enough but still maintain a satisfying crunch.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the skillet along with your prepared sauce. Stir everything together and keep cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes as the sauce thickens, coating each ingredient with glossy flavor. Finally, stir in the sliced eggs and serve immediately, enjoying every colorful, tasty forkful.

How to Serve Moo Shu Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate this dish beautifully. Scatter a few extra sliced green onions or even a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture. If you love a bit of crunch, a handful of chopped peanuts or crispy fried shallots will also add terrific contrast and flavor.

Side Dishes

Moo Shu Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with soft, thin pancakes to wrap the filling, mimicking traditional Moo Shu presentation. Alternatively, steamed jasmine rice or a bowl of fluffy white rice is fabulous for soaking up the incredible sauce. For a lighter side, a crisp cucumber salad or stir-fried greens offer a fresh counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to jazz up your serving style, turn this into a DIY moo shu wrap night with hoisin sauce, pancakes, and all the fixings laid out for everyone to assemble their own. Or serve the chicken atop a bed of noodles for a noodle bowl twist. Either way, the vibrant colors and textures will impress and satisfy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Moo Shu Chicken Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain freshness and texture. This way, you can enjoy a quick reheated meal whenever the craving strikes again.

Freezing

While fresh is always best, you can freeze this dish in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind, some vegetables may soften slightly after freezing, but the sauce and chicken will still provide plenty of great flavor for a convenient future meal.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Moo Shu Chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or soy sauce can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much in the fridge. For microwave use, cover loosely and heat in short intervals to avoid drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms for this Moo Shu Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! While shiitake mushrooms add a lovely earthy flavor, cremini or button mushrooms can also work well if that’s what you have on hand. Just slice them thinly and sauté until tender.

Is there a vegetarian version of Moo Shu Chicken?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or extra mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian twist. Adjust the cooking time as needed and keep the same fantastic sauce to maintain the signature flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and be sure to check your hoisin sauce for gluten-free labeling. This way, you keep all the flavor without the gluten.

What can I use instead of rice vinegar?

If you don’t have rice vinegar, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are good substitutes. Just use slightly less to keep the tang balanced and avoid overpowering the dish.

How long does it take to make Moo Shu Chicken Recipe from start to finish?

From marinating the chicken to the final stir-fry, this recipe takes about 35 minutes total. It’s perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that doesn’t keep you tied to the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

This Moo Shu Chicken Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining ease and exquisite flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s an inviting dish that showcases how quick meals can still be deeply satisfying and full of exciting textures. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!