Chicken of the woods mushrooms, also called Laetiporus sulphureus, grow on hardwood trees. They have a bright orange color and grow on shelves. When cooked, they feel meaty and taste mild like lemon. People compare their flavor to chicken, lobster, or crab.
These mushrooms should be picked when young. If left on the tree too long, they can get tough. And young mushrooms are good fit for chicken of the woods mushroom recipe.
Is chicken of the Woods Mushrooms Healthy?
Are you health conscious? Then you’ll be happy to hear that chicken of the woods mushrooms are very healthy to eat.
They protect your cells from free radical damage because they contain antioxidants like quercetin, kaempferol, and acids. The mushrooms also have beta-glucans which boost immunity by producing more white blood cells.
Additionally, chicken of the woods mushrooms have anti-inflammatory properties and are low in calories and fat. They provide dietary fiber, potassium, vitamins C and A, and protein. This makes them a nutritious addition for vegans or vegetarians.
Not only do they support good health, but chicken of the woods mushrooms also taste great. Whether you focus on health or flavor, these mushrooms benefit both groups. Their tasty qualities and health properties mean they appeal to food lov
What’s The Best Way To Eat Chicken Of The Woods?
There are so many chicken of the woods mushroom recipes. Chicken of the Woods mushroom is very tasty but what’s the best method to make it more tasty? The best way to eat chicken of the woods mushrooms is to cook them thoroughly before consuming them.
The most popular method and recipe for cooking chicken of the woods that I have personally tried is :
Sautéed Chicken of the Woods: Sauteed chicken of the woods mushroom is a delicious and easy-to-make dish.
How Do You Know If The Chicken Of The Woods Is Edible?
Identification is important. Chicken of the woods mushrooms are usually safe to eat but you must identify them correctly. They are bright orange or yellow and grow on shelves on trees. They don’t have gills like other mushrooms.
The tree type also matters. Find chicken of the woods on trees like oaks, willows, and conifers. Some say avoid ones from trees like yew or cherry. But others eat them from conifers and eucalyptus with no problems.
So in summary, to be sure chicken of the woods is edible, make sure it looks like bright orange shelves without gills and comes from the right kinds of trees like oaks or conifers. Correct identification and tree type will tell you if it’s safe to eat.
Sautéed Chicken of the Wood
Ingredient Notes
Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms: Always use fresh mushrooms and avoid tough or woody pieces. If you’re foraging, ensure you correctly identify the mushrooms to avoid toxic varieties.
Shallots: Can be substituted with finely chopped yellow or red onion.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal, but 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
Oil: Neutral oils like canola or avocado oil work well. For a richer flavor, use butter instead.Thyme: Dried thyme can be used if fresh is unavailable, but use half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Ingredient Substitutes
Mushrooms: If you can’t find Chicken of the Woods, try King Oyster mushrooms or Portobello mushrooms for a similar texture.
Oil: Replace cooking oil with unsalted butter for a creamier, richer flavor.
Honey (if added): For a touch of sweetness, drizzle honey or maple syrup after cooking.
Thyme: Substitute with parsley, rosemary, or oregano for a different herbaceous note.
How to Make sauteed chicken of the woods?
Step 1: Cleaning the Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms
Why clean properly? Mushrooms often grow in dirt and may have debris, which needs to be removed for safety and taste.
How to clean:
- Use a soft brush or a damp paper towel to gently wipe the mushroom caps and undersides.
- For crevices where dirt might hide, carefully clean with a damp cloth.
- Avoid soaking mushrooms in water as they absorb water easily, which can alter their texture.
- If the mushrooms are excessively dirty, dunk them briefly in water and immediately pat them dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Step 2: Preparing the Mushrooms
Cut the mushrooms into 1-inch wide or 1/2-inch thick pieces. This size ensures even cooking and helps maintain their meaty texture.
Step 3: Cooking the Mushrooms
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add 1/4 cup water and the sliced mushrooms to the skillet.
Cook the mushrooms for 10-25 minutes, depending on their moisture content. Stir occasionally.
- Why cook thoroughly? Chicken of the Woods mushrooms must be fully cooked to be safe to eat. Cooking softens their texture and brings out their flavor.
Once the mushrooms are tender and any remaining water has evaporated, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil to the skillet.
Step 4: Sautéing with Aromatics
Add the chopped shallots and garlic to the skillet.
Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the shallots are soft and the garlic is fragrant.
Season the mixture with Kosher salt, black pepper, and thyme. Stir well to evenly coat the mushrooms with flavor.
Step 5: Serve
The sautéed mushrooms are ready to enjoy as a side dish, on toast, or as part of a main meal. Their meaty texture and savory flavor make them a versatile ingredient.
How To Serve Sauteed Chicken Of Wood
As a side dish – Serve them along with other main dishes like grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or pasta.
In a salad – Add the mushrooms to fresh greens, vegetables, and a light dressing for a healthy meal.
On top of pasta – Use the mushrooms as a topping to add unique texture and flavor to pasta dishes.
In a sandwich or wrap – Put the mushrooms in a sandwich or wrap for a savory filling to the meal.
In a mushroom risotto – Mix the sauteed mushrooms into a risotto with rice, broth, and other ingredients for a creamy dish.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration: Store leftover sautéed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended as Chicken of the Woods mushrooms can lose their texture when frozen.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to maintain texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations
Add Wine: Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine for an enhanced flavor.
Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk during the final minutes of cooking for a creamy sauce.
Spicy Mushrooms: Sprinkle red chili flakes for heat.
Cheesy Mushrooms: Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Add Protein: Combine with sautéed chicken or tofu for a complete meal.
FAQs
What does Chicken of the Woods taste like?
These mushrooms have a mild, meaty flavor and a texture similar to cooked chicken breast.
Can I use dried Chicken of the Woods mushrooms?
Yes, rehydrate them in warm water for 15-20 minutes before using. Adjust cooking times slightly.
How can I tell if the mushrooms are fully cooked?
They should be tender, golden brown, and any excess moisture should have evaporated.
Are Chicken of the Woods mushrooms safe to eat?
Yes, as long as they are properly cleaned and thoroughly cooked. Avoid eating them raw.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini pair well with these mushrooms.
More Recipes
Sautéed Chicken of the Wood
Ingredients
- 5 oz Chicken of the Woods mushrooms
- 2 oz shallot 1 small shallot
- 1 large clove garlic
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- Kosher salt to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh chopped thyme or a small handful of thyme sprigs
Instructions
Step 1: Cleaning the Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms
- Why clean properly? Mushrooms often grow in dirt and may have debris, which needs to be removed for safety and taste.
How to clean:
- Use a soft brush or a damp paper towel to gently wipe the mushroom caps and undersides.
- For crevices where dirt might hide, carefully clean with a damp cloth.
- Avoid soaking mushrooms in water as they absorb water easily, which can alter their texture.
- If the mushrooms are excessively dirty, dunk them briefly in water and immediately pat them dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Step 2: Preparing the Mushrooms
- Cut the mushrooms into 1-inch wide or 1/2-inch thick pieces. This size ensures even cooking and helps maintain their meaty texture.
Step 3: Cooking the Mushrooms
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1/4 cup water and the sliced mushrooms to the skillet.
- Cook the mushrooms for 10-25 minutes, depending on their moisture content. Stir occasionally.
- Why cook thoroughly? Chicken of the Woods mushrooms must be fully cooked to be safe to eat. Cooking softens their texture and brings out their flavor.
- Once the mushrooms are tender and any remaining water has evaporated, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil to the skillet.
Step 4: Sautéing with Aromatics
- Add the chopped shallots and garlic to the skillet.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the shallots are soft and the garlic is fragrant.
- Season the mixture with Kosher salt, black pepper, and thyme. Stir well to evenly coat the mushrooms with flavor.
Step 5: Serve
- The sautéed mushrooms are ready to enjoy as a side dish, on toast, or as part of a main meal. Their meaty texture and savory flavor make them a versatile ingredient.