Foraging for wild mushrooms can be a thrilling experience, especially when you stumble upon a bounty of Chicken of the Woods (Laetipus sulphureus) mushrooms. These tender and savory fungi are a favorite among many mushroom enthusiasts, and it’s easy to see why. With their rich, earthy flavor and meaty texture, they’re a natural fit for a wide range of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of Chicken of the Woods mushrooms. From tacos to pasta dishes, pizzas to BBQ sandwiches, these mouthwatering ideas will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Chicken of the Woods Mushroom Tacos
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of Chicken of the Woods mushrooms with the vibrant flavors of Mexico, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with mushroom mixture, radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Fried Chicken of the Woods with Garlic Butter
Elevate your mushroom game with this simple yet impressive recipe featuring Chicken of the Woods mushrooms. Pan-frying brings out their natural sweetness, while garlic butter adds a rich and savory flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushroom strips and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they release their liquid and start browning.
3. Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the cooked mushroom strips back into the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken of the Woods Mushroom Stir-Fry
This recipe showcases the earthy flavor and tender texture of Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, paired with crunchy vegetables and savory soy sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and mushrooms; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Chicken of the Woods Pasta
Experience the rich flavors of the wild with this comforting pasta dish featuring sautéed chicken and the earthy goodness of Chicken of the Woods mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the skillet; stir to coat with creamy mushroom sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture; toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken of the Woods Steaks
Elevate your grilling game with this simple recipe that showcases the earthy flavor of Chicken of the Woods mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Chicken of the Woods mushroom caps (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the mushroom caps with the oil mixture.
4. Place mushrooms on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they release their natural moisture and start to caramelize.
5. Remove from heat when tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with your favorite herbs or spices if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes total
Chicken of the Woods Mushroom Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup made with tender chicken and earthy chicken of the woods mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken of the woods mushrooms (sliced)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion (chopped)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add the chicken broth, chicken breast or thighs, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken of the Woods and Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the earthy flavor of wild rice with the rich, buttery taste of Chicken of the Woods mushrooms. Perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 cups Chicken of the Woods mushroom pieces (dried or fresh)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Add mushroom pieces to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Stir in vegetable broth and bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked wild rice with the mushroom-chicken mixture.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with grated cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Breaded and Fried Chicken of the Woods Nuggets
Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside – these bite-sized chicken nuggets are a delightful twist on traditional breaded and fried treats. Using Chicken of the Woods mushrooms for added umami flavor, this recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters and mushroom lovers alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, stems removed and torn into small pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each mushroom piece into the flour mixture, then coat in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Fry breaded mushrooms in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken of the Woods Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto recipe combines the earthy flavor of Chicken of the Woods mushrooms with the richness of Parmesan cheese, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups Chicken of the Woods mushroom caps, cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in sliced mushrooms and garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken of the Woods and Spinach Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of Chicken of the Woods mushrooms with the nutritional benefits of spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy stuffed shell pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked mushrooms, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the mushroom-spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken of the Woods Mushroom Gravy over Biscuits
This comforting dish combines the earthy flavor of sautéed Chicken of the Woods mushrooms with a rich gravy served over flaky biscuits. A perfect blend of comfort food and wild mushroom goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare biscuits according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add sliced mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture; whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let gravy thicken while biscuits bake (about 12-15 minutes).
6. Serve hot, spooning gravy over warm biscuits.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
Chicken of the Woods and Potato Hash
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of Chicken of the Woods mushrooms with crispy potatoes, perfect for a satisfying morning meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and filling breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Chicken of the Woods mushrooms
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. Rehydrate the dried mushrooms by soaking them in hot water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to brown.
4. Add the rehydrated mushrooms, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. If using eggs, create 2 wells in the potato mixture and crack an egg into each.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken of the Woods Mushroom Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with the rich flavor of Chicken of the Woods mushrooms! This unique combination will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 8 oz Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a pan, sauté mushrooms and garlic in olive oil until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the mushroom mixture over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with parsley.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken of the Woods Fritters with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your snacking game with these crispy fritters packed with tender chicken of the woods mushrooms and served with a side of spicy aioli for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chicken of the woods mushrooms, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Aioli (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chopped mushrooms and stir until well combined.
3. Beat in the egg until a thick batter forms.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
7. Drain on paper towels.
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Chicken of the Woods Mushroom and Leek Quiche
Elevate your brunch game with this savory quiche featuring tender chicken of the woods mushrooms and sweet caramelized leeks. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weekend morning or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, sliced
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the mushrooms, leeks, and onion in butter until tender.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Arrange the mushroom mixture evenly over the crust.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the mushrooms.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken of the Woods BBQ Sandwich
Transform your sandwich game with this mouth-watering recipe featuring tender Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce and piled high on a toasted bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh Chicken of the Woods mushrooms
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp butter
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Clean and slice mushrooms into thin strips.
3. Grill mushrooms for 5-7 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add BBQ sauce and stir to combine.
5. Brush grilled mushrooms with the BBQ sauce mixture.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled mushrooms on toasted buns, topping with lettuce, tomato, onion (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken of the Woods Mushroom and Wild Herb Salad
This salad combines the earthy flavor of sautéed Chicken of the Woods mushrooms with the freshness of wild herbs, all atop a bed of crisp greens. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, stems removed and sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked mushrooms, chopped parsley, and chopped chives.
3. Top with mixed greens and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken of the Woods Mushroom Jerky
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of Chicken of the Woods mushrooms with the chewiness of traditional beef jerky, creating a unique and delicious snack. Perfect for mushroom enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried Chicken of the Woods mushrooms
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil.
3. Add the dried mushrooms and stir until they are evenly coated with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Arrange the mushroom mixture in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with garlic powder and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these 18 savory chicken of the woods mushroom recipes! From tacos to pasta, steak to soup, these mouthwatering dishes showcase the versatility and flavor of this underrated foraged ingredient. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner forager, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Discover new ways to prepare chicken of the woods mushrooms, from pan-frying with garlic butter to making creamy pasta sauces. With a range of dishes that cater to all tastes and dietary needs, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
