Mongolian Chicken: A 20-Minute Sweet and Savory Stir-Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mongolian Chicken recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. With tender chicken pieces coated in a luscious sauce, it's both satisfying and quick to prepare. The dish is ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. Its versatility allows for customization with your favorite vegetables, and it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced

• Cornstarch

• Salt and pepper

• Vegetable oil

• Soy sauce

• Brown sugar

• Garlic, minced

• Ginger, minced

• Green onions, chopped

• Sesame oil

• Optional: vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli

Directions

1. In a zip-lock bag, combine sliced chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Seal and shake to coat evenly.

2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in batches, cooking until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant.

4. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil to the skillet, stirring to combine.

5. Return chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Mongolian Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers to the sauce for a spicy kick.

• Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added texture and nutrition.

• Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken for beef, shrimp, or tofu to suit your preference.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

How can I make Mongolian Chicken spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, sliced chili peppers, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture to increase the heat.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce isn't thickening as desired, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce and cook for an additional minute.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using.

What should I serve with Mongolian Chicken?

Serve with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles to complement the dish.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Mongolian Chicken is great for meal prep. Store in individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?

Yes, honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar can be used as alternatives to brown sugar.

Conclusion

This Mongolian Chicken recipe offers a quick and flavorful meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. With its sweet and savory sauce, tender chicken, and the option to add your favorite vegetables, it's a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you're cooking for one or feeding a family, this recipe delivers delicious results in just 20 minutes.

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