There’s nothing quite like the delight of transforming simple ingredients into a memorable meal, especially when it can be done in just 30 minutes! Picture this: succulent chicken pieces, perfectly crispy and bathed in a glossy, sweet-and-spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds. That’s exactly what you get with this Delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken for Your Family’s Dinner!
On a particularly busy weeknight, I found myself chasing the clock, but I also craved something flavorful and satisfying far beyond the usual fast food. This recipe has quickly become a cherished part of my dinner rotation. With its simplicity and customization options, it’s a family-friendly dish that makes everyone at the table happy. Plus, if you need it, there are plenty of delightful variations—think tofu or shrimp—to ensure everyone is catered for. So, let’s dive in and discover how to whip up this delightful dish that promises to bring smiles around your dinner table!
Why is this Delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken a hit?
Quick to Prepare: You’ll love how this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Versatile Options: With ideas for swapping proteins or adding veggies, you can easily adapt this dish to your family’s preferences and dietary needs.
Bold Flavors: The sweet and spicy sauce elevates simple ingredients into a drool-worthy meal that satisfies every palate.
Crispy Perfection: The method of frying the chicken ensures each bite is wonderfully crispy outside while remaining tender inside.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress both adults and kids alike, making it a surefire hit at family dinners.
Make-ahead friendly: Want to save time later? Cook more chicken on the weekend and refrigerate! Simply reheat and toss into the sauce for an effortless meal.
Delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to create a family favorite!
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For the Chicken
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Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish, ensure they are cut into even bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
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Cornstarch – Key for achieving that crispy, golden texture when fried; feel free to substitute with all-purpose flour if needed.
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For the Sauce
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Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Provides a savory base for the sauce; vegetable broth is an excellent alternative for a vegetarian option.
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Dark Brown Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the heat; light brown sugar can work in a pinch.
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Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Essential for depth of flavor; using low sodium helps keep it heart-healthy.
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Water – Adjusts the sauce’s thickness to your liking.
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Garlic (minced) – Freshly minced adds a wonderful aroma and flavor boost.
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Ginger (chopped) – Provides warmth and spice; fresh ginger is best, but ground ginger can suffice in a hurry.
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Dried Red Chilies – For that spicy kick and vibrant color; substitute with red chili flakes if you prefer a milder taste.
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Cornstarch (for sauce) – Thickens the sauce to give it that perfect glossy finish.
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For Frying
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Canola Oil – Vital for frying, giving the chicken a crispy coating; sesame oil can be a tasty substitute if you’re up for it.
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For Garnish
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Green Onions – Adds a fresh, crunchy element; though optional, they bring brightness to the dish.
Dive into preparing this Delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken that’s sure to make your family smile!
How to Make Delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken
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Coat the Chicken: Begin by placing the chicken cubes in a resealable bag along with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and shake it gently until the chicken is thoroughly coated for a crispy texture.
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Cook Chicken: Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
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Make Mongolian Sauce: In a measuring cup, whisk together the low sodium chicken broth, dark brown sugar, cornstarch, soy sauce, and water until smooth and well combined. This will create a deliciously thick sauce.
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Prepare Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary. Sauté the chopped ginger, minced garlic, and dried red chilies for about 30 seconds until they become aromatic and flavorful.
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Combine: Carefully pour the prepared sauce into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and then add the fried chicken pieces, stirring well to coat them evenly with the sauce.
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Garnish & Serve: Finish by topping your dish with fresh green onions to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot over steamed rice for a delightful meal.
Optional: Add sesame seeds as a crunchy garnish for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken
• Uniform Pieces: Cut the chicken into equal sizes for even cooking and a perfect crispy texture.
• Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet while frying. This keeps the oil hot and ensures that each piece blissfully turns golden and crispy.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the number of dried red chilies in the sauce to match your family’s preferred spice level, making this dish a hit for everyone!
• Don’t Skip Garnish: Fresh green onions not only enhance the presentation but also add a delightful crunch and flavor that elevates your Mongolian Chicken.
• Quick Sauce Adjustment: If your sauce ends up too thick, add a splash of water while simmering to reach your desired consistency without sacrificing flavor.
Enjoy preparing this Delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken with these helpful tips and watch your family devour every bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Mongolian Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but need to save time! You can coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch and season them up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce by whisking together the broth, brown sugar, cornstarch, soy sauce, and water up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chicken, combine it with the sauce, and cook until heated through. Enjoy restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort!
Delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken Variations
Customize your dish to fit every taste and dietary need—feast on these enticing changes!
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Protein Swap: Replace the chicken with crispy tofu, succulent shrimp, or hearty chickpeas for a delicious twist.
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Vegetarian Delight: Opt for seitan instead of chicken, creating a plant-based meal that’s equally satisfying and flavorful.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use arrowroot powder in place of cornstarch for a gluten-free thickening agent that retains that perfect crunch.
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Add Veggies: Toss in vibrant bell peppers, crunchy snap peas, or nutrient-rich broccoli to boost nutrition and color—your tastebuds will thank you!
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Rice Alternatives: Swap out rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa to create a lighter, low-carb version of this wonderful dish.
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Garnish Variations: Top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture and unexpected delight on every bite.
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Sweet & Spicy Extra: Incorporate a splash of sriracha sauce into the Mongolian sauce for an extra kick of heat that spice lovers will adore.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh cilantro or basil during the final mix for an aromatic touch that elevates the entire meal.
What to Serve with Easy Mongolian Chicken?
Transform your dinner table into a delightful feast with these scrumptious pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of this dish.
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Steamed White Rice: A classic choice, fluffy rice soaks up the sweet and spicy sauce beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp veggies like bell peppers and broccoli add a colorful crunch and complement the savory chicken perfectly for a nutritious bite.
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Cucumber Salad: This light salad adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the dish’s sweet flavors with a cool, tangy bite; perfect for warm evenings.
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Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter, low-carb option, cauliflower rice absorbs the flavors of the Mongolian Chicken while adding a nutty dimension.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: Drizzling this vibrant sauce brings an additional layer of sweetness and heat that pairs wonderfully with the chicken’s spiciness.
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Sesame Noodles: These flavorful noodles offer a satisfying texture and pair seamlessly with the chicken, enhancing the Asian-inspired theme.
Each of these options will create a vibrant and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the magic of flavors!
Proper Storage for Delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it for easy identification!
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from thickening too much.
Delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best to use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness and juiciness. Cut them into bite-sized chunks for even cooking, which ensures every piece is crispy and flavorful.
How long can I store leftovers of this chicken dish?
You can refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. After that, I suggest making it a family tradition to enjoy a cozy chicken dinner again soon!
Can I freeze my Easy Mongolian Chicken?
Very! To freeze, let the chicken cool completely after cooking, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it, so you know what it is. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating.
I found my sauce thicker than expected! What can I do?
No worries! If your sauce becomes too thick, just add a small splash of water or chicken broth while simmering. Stir well until it reaches your desired consistency. The key is to maintain its delicious flavor while adjusting the thickness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! For gluten-free options, just substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder. If anyone in your family has soy allergies, consider using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. And for a vegetarian alternative, you can utilize tofu or seitan instead of chicken!
What veggies can I add to the dish?
The more the merrier! You can incorporate colorful veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply add them to the skillet after sautéing your garlic and ginger. This not only boosts the dish’s color but also makes it a bit healthier.
Delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken Your Family Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Coat the Chicken: Begin by placing the chicken cubes in a resealable bag along with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and shake it gently until the chicken is thoroughly coated for a crispy texture.
- Cook Chicken: Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Make Mongolian Sauce: In a measuring cup, whisk together the low sodium chicken broth, dark brown sugar, cornstarch, soy sauce, and water until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary. Sauté the chopped ginger, minced garlic, and dried red chilies for about 30 seconds until they become aromatic and flavorful.
- Combine: Carefully pour the prepared sauce into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and then add the fried chicken pieces, stirring well to coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish & Serve: Finish by topping your dish with fresh green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice.