By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on February 28, 2023 | Last Updated on November 15, 2023
Chicken of the woods is a wild mushroom species that is sometimes used as a substitute for chicken. It can be prepared in many different ways and has a mellow, nutty flavour. Its silky texture and chewy firmness make it a pleasant meat alternative for individuals who want to consume fewer animal products.
Despite being less common than other wild mushrooms, chicken of the woods can still be obtained in some specialised shops or foraged from specific locations.
This article will discuss what chicken of the woods is and how to make it. We’ll also discuss nutrition and respond to some frequently asked questions regarding mushrooms. Read on to discover everything there is to know about chicken of the woods.
What is Chicken of the Woods?
Chicken of the woods, also known as Laetiporus sulphureus, is a type of wild mushroom. It has a soft texture and chewy firmness that can mimic chicken meat in recipes.
The exterior is yellow-orange to bright yellow with concentric circles of ridges, while the interior is white and soft. It grows on trees, particularly oaks and other hardwoods, in temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America.
What Does it Taste Like?
Chicken of the woods has a mild flavour with a hint of nuttiness. The texture is silky smooth and slightly spongy when cooked. Some people compare it to chicken, but others note that its flavour is more similar to scallops or abalone.
How Did I First Get Introduced to the Chicken of the Woods?
I first encountered chicken of the woods in a recipe for vegan tacos. My friends and I had been talking about trying out meat alternatives, so we decided to give it a try. I was pleasantly surprised by how much the mushroom reminded me of chicken, and I’ve been cooking with it ever since.
How To Make Chicken of the Woods?
Chicken of the woods is quite simple to make. You’ll need some wood mushrooms and a few simple components. To make the easiest chicken in the woods, simply follow these easy steps.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken of the woods mushrooms
- 2 whole eggs, whisked
- 1 cup cooking oil
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
Step 1:
Clean and prepare the mushrooms by cutting off any tough or woody stems.
Step 2:
Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 3:
Dip each chicken of the woods mushroom into the whisked egg, then coat with panko bread crumbs. Gently place into the preheated skillet.
Step 4:
Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping once to ensure both sides are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5:
Remove from the skillet and serve with your favourite dipping sauce or side dishes.
Tips
– Make sure to use fresh chicken of the woods mushrooms, as they will have the best flavour and texture.
– For an extra crunch, try adding some grated parmesan cheese to the panko bread crumbs before coating the mushrooms.
Chicken of The Woods Recipe
Equipment
- 1 have saut of frying pan
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cooking oil serving as a medium for frying, creating a golden and crispy exterior while retaining the moisture inside.
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs offering a light and crunchy texture, creating a crispy and flavorful coating for the mushrooms.
- 1 whole egg whisked, adding a creamy and binding element, helping the bread crumbs adhere to the mushrooms for a crispy coating.
- 1/2 lb chicken of the woods mushrooms also known as “vegan chicken,” providing a meaty and tender texture, perfect for a plant-based alternative.
Instructions
- Clean and prepare the mushrooms by cutting off any tough or woody stems.
- Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Dip each chicken of the woods mushroom into the whisked egg, then coat with panko bread crumbs. Gently place into the preheated skillet.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping once to ensure both sides are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and serve with your favourite dipping sauce or side dishes.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Calories: 649 kcal , Carbohydrates: 33g , Protein: 9g ,Fat: 55g ,Saturated Fat: 8g ,Sodium: 768mg , Potassium: 490 mg , Fibre: 2g ,Sugar: 4g , Vitamin A: 134 IU ,Vitamin C: 5mg , Calcium: 24mg ,Iron: 2mg
What to serve with Chicken of the Woods?
This dish pairs well with various side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. For an extra flavour boost, try serving it with a creamy sauce like hollandaise or béarnaise.
How to store leftover Chicken of the Woods?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and place them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until hot.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can safely enjoy this dish if they follow the general food safety guidelines for handling and storing raw meat.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Yes, as long as they are similar in size to chicken of the woods mushrooms.
Is this dish gluten-free?
No, it is not gluten-free, as the panko bread crumbs contain wheat.
Is this dish vegan?
No, it is not vegan, as it contains eggs and dairy-based products.
Wrapping Up
This Chicken of the Woods recipe is a delicious light and savory supper. Chicken of the woods is unquestionably a mushroom worth meeting because of its renowned meaty flavour and texture. You can add your preferred seasonings or sauces to it and it only requires a few basic components.
I hope you found the instructions for making chicken of the woods in this post to be helpful. Please share your experience with this dish by commenting below. Don’t forget to share the recipe if you like it! Thanks for reading.
Please share your experience in the comments below. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Happy Cooking!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
