Where to Buy Mushrooms That Taste Like Chicken: Your Ultimate Guide to Meaty Fungi

Are you craving that chicken texture and flavor but want to skip the meat? You’re not alone! As someone who’s been experimenting with plant-based alternatives for years, I’ve become obsessed with mushrooms that can mimic chicken in both taste and texture. These fungi champions are changing the game for vegetarians, vegans, and curious foodies alike.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about where to buy mushrooms that taste like chicken, how to prepare them, and why they’re becoming so darn popular Whether you’re shopping online or locally, I’ve got you covered!

The Top Mushroom Varieties That Taste Like Chicken

Let’s start by identifying the mushroom rockstars that can genuinely pass for chicken in your favorite recipes.

Oyster Mushrooms: The Versatile Champion

Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) are the undisputed kings of chicken-like mushrooms. They’re:

• Readily available in most grocery stores
• Mild and savory when cooked
• Delicate but slightly chewy in texture
• Perfect for absorbing flavors from marinades
• Affordable ($5-$8 per pound)

When properly prepared oyster mushrooms develop an umami richness that closely resembles poultry. Their texture becomes even more chicken-like when shredded with forks before cooking.

Chicken of the Woods: Nature’s Perfect Imitation

With a name like Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus sulphureus) you better believe this mushroom delivers! This bright yellow to orange fungus

• Has an uncanny resemblance to cooked chicken breast
• Features a soft, tender texture similar to lean meat
• Develops a deeper flavor when cooked, similar to seafood or poultry
• Has a mild, slightly lemony tang when raw
• Is typically available fresh from August through November
• Costs between $15-$25 per pound when fresh

The resemblance to chicken is so striking that even dedicated meat-eaters are often amazed by the similarity!

King Oyster Mushrooms: The Meaty Alternative

King oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus eryngii) have a substantial bite that’s remarkably similar to meat. These large-stemmed mushrooms:

• Develop a savory umami flavor with hints of nuttiness and butter when cooked
• Have a firm yet tender texture
• Are available year-round in many grocery stores
• Cost approximately $10-$15 per pound
• Pair exceptionally well with chicken flavors or can stand in for chicken completely

Their substantial stems make them perfect for slicing into medallions that mimic chicken pieces.

Honorable Mentions

While not as widely available or as chicken-like as the varieties above, these mushrooms deserve a mention:

• Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): Has a stringy texture that mimics shredded chicken and a savory, slightly seafood-like flavor
• Maitake/Hen of the Woods: Has a flavor profile similar to oyster mushrooms that some describe as chicken-like
• Shiitake Mushrooms: While earthier than the others, they can still work in dishes where a subtle chicken-like flavor is desired

Where to Buy Fresh Chicken-Like Mushrooms

Now that you know which mushrooms to look for, let’s talk about where to find them!

Local Grocery Stores and Supermarkets

Most well-stocked grocery stores now carry at least oyster mushrooms and king oyster mushrooms in their produce section. Look near other specialty mushrooms. Stores to check include:

• Whole Foods
• Trader Joe’s
• Kroger
• Safeway
• Local co-ops and health food stores

Pro tip: Ask the produce manager if they don’t currently stock these varieties. Many stores will order specialty items upon request!

Asian Markets

Asian markets are often THE BEST place to find specialty mushrooms at great prices. They typically carry:

• Fresh oyster mushrooms (often at lower prices than mainstream grocers)
• King oyster mushrooms
• Sometimes seasonal specialty mushrooms

Plus, the staff at these markets can often provide cooking tips if you ask!

Farmers Markets

Farmers markets are an excellent source for locally grown, fresh mushrooms. Benefits include:

• Direct interaction with growers
• Extremely fresh product
• Knowledge about cultivation practices
• Supporting local agriculture
• Potential for bulk discounts

Many mushroom farmers at markets offer oyster mushrooms, and some may seasonally have Chicken of the Woods if they forage or cultivate it.

Online Retailers for Fresh and Dried Mushrooms

Can’t find what you need locally? No worries! Several online retailers specialize in mushrooms and can ship them right to your door.

For Fresh Chicken of the Woods:

1. Oregon Mushrooms (www.oregonmushrooms.com)

   • Ships fresh Chicken of the Woods overnight from Oregon
   • Available August through November
   • Also offers dried Chicken of the Woods year-round

2. Fungi Perfecti

   • Sells foraged wild mushrooms including Chicken of the Woods in season
   • Known for high-quality products

For Fresh Oyster and King Oyster Mushrooms:

Most online grocers now offer delivery of specialty mushrooms, including:

• Amazon Fresh
• Instacart (partnered with local stores)
• Misfits Market
• Imperfect Foods

For Dried Mushrooms (Available Year-Round):

1. Mushroom House

   • Offers dried Chicken of the Woods pieces and powder
   • Sells dried king oyster and oyster mushroom chunks

2. Oregon Mushrooms

   • Sells dried Oregon Chicken of the Woods online
   • Great selection of other dried mushroom varieties

3. Hole in the Woods Farm

   • Forages and dries Chicken of the Woods mushrooms from their Indiana farm

4. Online Marketplaces

   • Amazon
   • Thrive Market (offers dried oyster mushrooms at wholesale prices for members)
   • Walmart (carries budget-friendly dried oyster mushrooms)

Dried mushrooms might sound less exciting, but they actually concentrate the savory flavors and can be rehydrated when needed. They’re also much more shelf-stable and available year-round.

Preparation Tips to Maximize Chicken-Like Qualities

Once you’ve sourced your mushrooms, proper preparation is crucial to maximize their chicken-like qualities.

For Oyster Mushrooms:

1. Shredding Technique

   • Shred with two forks before cooking
   • This helps them better absorb flavors and mimics shredded chicken texture

2. Searing Method

   • Sear in a hot pan with oil until crispy on the edges
   • Creates a texture similar to chicken skin

3. Marinating Magic

   • Marinate in poultry-like seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, sage, thyme
   • Add a bit of soy sauce or liquid smoke for depth

For Chicken of the Woods:

1. Testing for Tolerance

   • Try a small amount first, as some people may experience mild digestive discomfort
   • This is rare but recommended when trying any new food

2. Simple Preparation

   • Can be prepared in most ways you’d prepare chicken meat
   • Works exceptionally well breaded and fried like chicken cutlets

3. Freezing Option

   • Can be frozen for long periods and still maintain edibility
   • Great for batch cooking

For King Oyster Mushrooms:

1. Scoring Technique

   • Score the stems in a crosshatch pattern before cooking
   • Helps them absorb more flavor and creates a meat-like texture

2. Medallion Cutting

   • Slice into 1-inch thick medallions that resemble chicken pieces
   • Great for stir-fries and sautés

Creative Recipe Ideas

Here are some quick recipe ideas to get you started with your chicken-like mushrooms:

1. Mushroom “Fried Chicken”

   • Batter and fry Chicken of the Woods pieces
   • Season with traditional fried chicken spices

2. Pulled “Chicken” Sandwich

   • Shred oyster mushrooms and sauté with BBQ sauce
   • Serve on a bun with coleslaw

3. Mushroom “Chicken” Noodle Soup

   • Use king oyster mushrooms sliced into chunks
   • Add to traditional chicken noodle soup recipe

4. Mushroom Piccata

   • Pound king oyster mushroom slices thin
   • Prepare with traditional piccata sauce of lemon, capers, and butter

5. Buffalo Mushroom “Wings”

   • Bread and fry oyster mushroom clusters
   • Toss in buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese dressing

FAQs About Chicken-Like Mushrooms

Q: Are oyster mushrooms always safe to eat?
A: Generally, yes. Commercially cultivated oyster mushrooms are safe for consumption. Just ensure you’re purchasing from a reputable source and that they appear fresh and undamaged.

Q: Can I grow my own oyster mushrooms?
A: Absolutely! Growing oyster mushrooms is relatively straightforward. Pre-inoculated kits are readily available online and at garden centers.

Q: What’s the best way to store these mushrooms?
A: Store oyster mushrooms in a paper bag (not plastic!) in the refrigerator and use within a week. Chicken of the Woods should also be stored in paper and used quickly or frozen for later use.

Q: How do I clean these mushrooms?
A: Gently wipe with a damp cloth or paper towel. Avoid soaking in water as mushrooms will absorb moisture and become soggy.

Q: Are these mushrooms nutritious?
A: Yes! Oyster mushrooms are a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They’re also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to your diet.

Final Thoughts

The world of chicken-like mushrooms is expansive and exciting! With more people looking to reduce meat consumption while still enjoying familiar flavors and textures, these mushroom varieties offer an incredible alternative.

Whether you’re buying them from your local grocery store, a specialty market, or online, these mushrooms provide a sustainable, healthy, and delicious way to recreate chicken dishes without the chicken.

I’ve personally used oyster mushrooms to make everything from “chicken” pot pie to mushroom tacos that fooled my meat-loving friends. The versatility and availability of these fungi make them a must-try for anyone looking to expand their culinary horizons.

Have you tried any mushrooms that taste like chicken? What were your experiences? I’d love to hear about your adventures in the comments below!

Happy cooking and mushroom hunting!