Easy Mongolian Chicken
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
A quick and delicious recipe for Mongolian chicken that brings bold flavors to your table in no time.
This Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners. It's quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bold and savory flavors that excite your palate
- Quick cooking time, perfect for busy evenings
- Tender chicken coated in a delicious sauce
A Flavorful Journey
Mongolian chicken is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Asian cuisine with its bold and savory flavors. This recipe offers a quick way to enjoy a taste of Mongolia without the need for complicated cooking techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. The combination of tender chicken, rich soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar creates a dish that is both satisfying and exciting for your taste buds.
As you cook this dish, you'll find that the aroma fills your kitchen, enticing everyone around to gather and enjoy a meal together. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this Mongolian chicken recipe is sure to impress. The vibrant colors and rich flavors are as appealing as they are delicious, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best features of this Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe is its quick cooking time. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a homemade meal that rivals your favorite takeout options. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but you still want a meal that is both nutritious and flavorful.
The marination step, while simple, enhances the chicken's flavor and tenderness, allowing the soy sauce and cornstarch to work their magic. As the chicken cooks, the sauce comes together seamlessly, ensuring that every bite is coated in the delicious, savory mixture. This recipe is designed for those who want to enjoy great food without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect Pairings
Mongolian chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, consider serving it over fluffy jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables. The rice soaks up the extra sauce, making for a delightful combination that balances the flavors perfectly. Alternatively, serve it with crispy noodles for a satisfying crunch that complements the tender chicken.
To elevate your meal further, you can include a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad. These options not only add nutritional value but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken. By mixing and matching sides, you can create a dining experience that suits your preferences while making the most of this delectable dish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Combine all ingredients for a quick and flavorful meal!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same pan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, water, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the pan, stir to coat in the sauce, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Enjoy your homemade Mongolian chicken!
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers after enjoying your Mongolian chicken, storing them is easy and convenient. Simply transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss of cooking again immediately.
When you're ready to eat the leftovers, simply reheat them in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or a bit more soy sauce to refresh the dish and prevent it from drying out. This makes for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner option that tastes just as good the second time around.
Customization Options
One of the wonderful aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the dish according to your preferences or dietary needs. If you're looking to add more vegetables, consider incorporating bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to the pan while cooking the chicken. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds vibrant colors and textures.
For those who prefer a spicier kick, adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce can elevate the flavor even further. You can also experiment with different proteins like beef or tofu for a vegetarian version. The possibilities are endless, making this Easy Mongolian Chicken a recipe you'll want to revisit again and again.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Mongolian chicken, presentation matters. Consider plating the dish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and sesame seeds to add visual appeal and freshness. You can also serve it in a large communal bowl for a family-style meal, allowing everyone to help themselves and enjoy the vibrant flavors together.
To complement the meal, serve a refreshing beverage such as iced tea or a light beer. These drinks can enhance the dining experience and balance the savory notes of the chicken. With thoughtful presentation and the right accompaniments, your Easy Mongolian Chicken will not only taste amazing but also impress your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef or tofu for a different twist.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
Easy Mongolian Chicken
A quick and delicious recipe for Mongolian chicken that brings bold flavors to your table in no time.
Created by: Piper Andrews
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, water, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Return the chicken to the pan, stir to coat in the sauce, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 25g