Mongolian Chicken is a delicious stir-fry dish featuring tender slices of chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce, mixed with garlic, ginger, and green onions. It’s an easy weeknight meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you crave a flavorful takeout-inspired dish. Serve it over rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying
Sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
Stir-Fry
- 1/4 cup green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken pieces are evenly coated. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Set the sauce aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken slices in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the prepared sauce and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce.
Step 5: Add Green Onions
Add the green onions and sesame oil to the skillet, stirring for an additional 1-2 minutes until the green onions are slightly softened. Remove from heat.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Mongolian Chicken over steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy!
Cook Notes
- Chicken Cutting Tip: It’s easier to slice the chicken breast thinly if it is slightly frozen. This helps achieve even, bite-sized pieces.
- Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it a bit longer, or add a slurry made from 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to ensure it gets crispy and doesn’t absorb too much oil.
Variations
1. Spicy Mongolian Chicken
Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also stir in sliced red chili peppers.
2. Mongolian Chicken with Vegetables
Add broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or snap peas to the skillet during the final minutes of cooking for added crunch and nutrients.
3. Low-Sugar Mongolian Chicken
Reduce the brown sugar to 2 tablespoons and substitute the hoisin sauce with a low-sugar version for a lighter take on this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
- Rice: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a classic pairing.
- Noodles: Serve over rice noodles for a different texture.
- Vegetables: Pair with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bok choy for a well-rounded meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breast?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They are more forgiving if overcooked and offer a juicier texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Mongolian Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken can be cooked and stored separately, then reheated and combined just before serving.
This Mongolian Chicken recipe is an easy way to enjoy a takeout classic from the comfort of your own home. With tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Customize it with extra veggies or a bit of heat to suit your taste, and serve it over fluffy rice for a delicious dinner. Give it a try and enjoy the rich flavors in every bite!
Did you make this recipe? Let us know in the comments below how it turned out and share your favorite variations!
