Mongolian Chicken

There’s something about Mongolian Chicken that makes it a total crowd-pleaser. It’s sweet, savory, and packed with flavors that make every bite a moment of pure satisfaction. Whether you’re craving something flavorful for dinner or looking to impress your guests with a delicious homemade dish, this Mongolian Chicken is sure to be a hit. The crispy chicken pieces are coated in a rich, glossy sauce that’s bursting with ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. You’re going to love how simple it is to prepare and how much it tastes like takeout—only better!

Why You’ll Love Mongolian Chicken

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
• Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Let’s take a look at the ingredients that come together to make this dish so irresistible:

Chicken Breasts or Thighs

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are the perfect base for this dish. They get crispy on the outside and stay juicy on the inside.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch is key to achieving that perfect crispy coating on the chicken. It gives the chicken that light, crunchy texture that pairs so well with the sauce.

Vegetable Oil

You’ll need vegetable oil to fry the chicken. It has a neutral flavor that lets the chicken and sauce shine.

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce gives the sauce its salty, umami depth and is essential for the flavor profile.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that balances out the salty soy sauce and gives the dish its signature flavor.

Garlic

Fresh garlic is essential in this recipe. It provides a bold, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar.

Ginger

Grated fresh ginger adds a fragrant, spicy warmth that enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.

Green Onions

Green onions are used as both a garnish and an ingredient in the sauce. They add a bit of freshness and crunch.

Sesame Oil

A drizzle of sesame oil adds a nutty, aromatic element to the sauce, enhancing its depth.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make this delicious Mongolian Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they get crispy when fried.

Coat the Chicken

In a shallow bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, making sure each piece is evenly coated. This step is what gives the chicken that crispy texture.

Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add a little more oil if needed. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add soy sauce, brown sugar, and a pinch of sesame oil. Stir to combine, allowing the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the crispy chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing them gently in the sauce to coat each piece. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the sauce.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle sliced green onions on top of the chicken for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Mongolian Chicken

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile meal for any occasion:

• Steamed Rice: Serve with fluffy white or jasmine rice to soak up the savory sauce.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds freshness and crunch.
• Noodles: For a twist, serve with stir-fried noodles or ramen for a heartier meal.

Presentation Tip

Garnish the dish with additional sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful and tasty finishing touch.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to make your Mongolian Chicken even better:

• Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer juicier chicken, swap chicken breasts for thighs. They’ll be a bit more tender and flavorful.
• Make the Sauce Spicier: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sliced chili peppers to the sauce.
• Batch Cooking: Double the recipe to make enough for leftovers. Mongolian Chicken tastes just as great the next day!
• Make it Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A1: Yes, chicken breasts work perfectly well in this recipe. Just make sure to cut them into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

Q2: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
A2: While frying gives the chicken that crispy texture, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture will be a bit different but still delicious!

Q3: Can I use a store-bought Mongolian sauce?
A3: Sure! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought Mongolian sauce and simply toss the fried chicken in it.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.

Q5: Can I freeze Mongolian Chicken?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q6: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A6: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce as it simmers.

Q7: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A7: You can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and toss together.

Q8: How do I make it spicier?
A8: Add chili flakes, chili paste, or fresh chopped chilies to the sauce to give it an extra kick!

Q9: Can I use another type of oil for frying?
A9: Yes! You can use peanut oil or canola oil if you prefer, as they have high smoking points and neutral flavors.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Absolutely! Just make sure to fry the chicken in batches if you’re making a larger amount to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Conclusion

This Mongolian Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and sweet flavors, and it’s so much better than takeout. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish will quickly become a favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor!

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