Moo Shu Chicken Made Easy

Moo Shu Chicken is a flavorful stir fry that comes together quickly for dinner and is loaded with tender chicken strips, colorful veggies, and umami packed sauce. This is the go to meal I make on busy weeknights when I want something satisfying and homemade but do not have hours to spend in the kitchen.

I discovered Moo Shu Chicken years ago when I craved my favorite takeout but hoped for something fresher and lighter. After much trial and error this version became the only one my family asks for and I love that it is both comforting and healthy.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast tenderloins: For a lean protein that stays juicy when sliced thin use good quality chicken for best flavor
• Shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix: Brings crunch without much effort choose fresh cabbage or a pre bagged slaw for convenience
• Shiitake mushrooms: Deliver deep earthy notes look for sliced cans or rehydrate dried ones if you prefer
• Hoisin sauce: Provides classic sweet and tangy taste choose a high quality brand for authentic flavor
• Oyster sauce: Amps up the umami adding depth to the stir fry select one that lists oysters early in the ingredients
• Soy sauce: Ties everything together with a salty kick use low sodium if you want to control the saltiness
• Sesame oil: For rich nuttiness it should smell fragrant and toasty
• Eggs: Give a classic moo shu texture like little ribbons throughout the dish use large eggs
• Green onions: Add brightness and a hint of mild onion flavor select fresh firm stalks
• Garlic: For that classic aromatic foundation go for plump fresh cloves
• Sherry: A small pour wakes up all the flavors use dry sherry or a little rice wine in a pinch
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for that perfect stir fry consistency make sure it is superfine
• Vegetable oil: Is best for high heat and keeps flavors neutral

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl whisk together water sesame oil and cornstarch until the cornstarch dissolves completely and no lumps remain. Add the sliced chicken and turn every piece so it is fully coated. Let this sit while you prep the remaining ingredients for super tender bites.

Make the Stir Fry Sauce:

Mix together the rest of the water sesame oil hoisin sauce oyster sauce and soy sauce in a small bowl. Whisk well and set within reach of the stove so the sauce is ready to pour into your skillet when you need it.

Cook the Egg Ribbons:

Heat some vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs tilting the pan so they cover the bottom evenly. Cook slowly for about three minutes until mostly set then carefully flip to cook the other side for three minutes longer. Slide the cooked eggs onto a board and slice into thin ribbons so they mix evenly into the stir fry.

Cook the Chicken:

Add a little more oil to the skillet then place the marinated chicken strips in a single layer. Resist the urge to stir too soon let the chicken cook undisturbed for six minutes to develop a golden crust before flipping and cooking the other side for about six more minutes until every piece is golden brown and cooked through. Set aside on a plate while you finish the vegetables.

Vegetables and Aromatics:

To the same skillet add the remaining oil followed by shredded cabbage shiitake mushrooms and minced garlic. Pour in the sherry to deglaze the pan and stir constantly. The goal is to soften the veggies and bring out flavors without overcooking about two minutes will do it.

Combine and Finish:

Return the chicken and egg ribbons to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and stir well to coat. Keep the mixture moving until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken and vegetables about five minutes. Turn off the heat and quickly toss in the chopped green onions for freshness. Serve right away while everything is glossy and hot.

The hoisin sauce is what truly makes this dish so craveable for me. There is something about that sticky sweet and tangy flavor that feels like comfort in a bowl. I remember my kids standing at the stove sneaking tastes as soon as they smelled dinner cooking.

Storage Tips

Once cooled store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to reheat stir fries on the stove over medium heat with a splash of water or in the microwave until hot. Try not to freeze as cabbage can become mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the chicken for sliced pork tenderloin thin beef strips or tofu for vegetarian. If you cannot find shiitakes use cremini or button mushrooms though the flavor will change slightly. For a gluten free version use tamari in place of soy sauce and check your hoisin and oyster sauce labels.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own Moo Shu Chicken is wonderful spooned into warm flour tortillas or over steamed rice. If you are hosting make a build your own station with crunchy toppings like extra green onion or shredded carrots so everyone can customize.

Cultural Context for Moo Shu Chicken

This Chinese American favorite has its roots in Shandong cuisine though the takeout version evolved for Western tastes. Traditionally it is served with thin Mandarin pancakes but many home cooks (myself included) use soft tortillas for convenience and they work perfectly.

I have learned that preparing all the ingredients before you start cooking makes this dish truly seamless. There is no chance for overcooking if you have your sauces mixed and your vegetables and meats ready to go. Even picky eaters in my house appreciate this dish especially when they get to build their own wraps at the table.

Recipe Q&A

→ How do I keep the chicken tender in Moo Shu Chicken?

Marinating chicken in a cornstarch mixture helps lock in moisture and delivers a velvety finish when stir-fried.

→ Can I substitute vegetables in Moo Shu Chicken?

Yes, you can use other crunchy vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots to add extra color and texture.

→ What is the purpose of adding eggs?

Eggs provide richness and balance, adding traditional flavor and enhancing the heartiness of the dish.

→ How do I serve Moo Shu Chicken?

It can be enjoyed on its own or wrapped in thin pancakes or lettuce leaves for an authentic dining experience.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Moo Shu Chicken stores well and can be reheated, making it a convenient option for meal planning.