If you're craving a dish that's savory, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced with a hint of spice, look no further than Mongolian Chicken. This classic dish combines crispy chicken bites with a rich, glossy sauce that's packed with garlic, ginger, and soy flavors. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, Mongolian Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and utterly irresistible.
Why You'll Love Mongolian Chicken
- Quick to Make: Perfect for busy weeknights, ready in just 30 minutes.
- Restaurant-Style Flavors: Achieve that authentic Asian restaurant taste right at home.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to your liking.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 ¼ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into thin bite-sized pieces for even cooking and a crispy texture.
- ⅓ cup cornstarch: Creates a light, crispy coating for the chicken.
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 medium yellow onion: Cut into wedges for a subtle sweetness and crunch.
For the Sauce
- 1 ½ teaspoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty, aromatic base to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger: Provides a zingy, warm spice that complements the sweetness of the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory profile.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a slight tang.
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce: Delivers salty, umami depth without overpowering.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Adds the signature sweetness for a caramel-like glaze.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a silky consistency.
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water: Provides the perfect base for the sauce.
- 1-2 pinches red pepper flakes: Optional, for a gentle heat.
- 4 green onions: Adds a fresh, oniony kick and brightens the dish visually.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken
- Combine the chicken and cornstarch in a large zipper bag. Shake well to coat evenly—this step ensures the chicken is crispy and flavorful.
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Work in batches if necessary, adding more oil as needed. Remove and plate the chicken.
2. Sauté the Onion
- Add another 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Toss in the yellow onion wedges and stir-fry for 2 minutes. The goal is to keep them slightly crunchy. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
3. Create the Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the sesame oil.
- Stir in the ginger and garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in the rice vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar, whisking to combine.
4. Thicken the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth and cornstarch. Add this slurry to the skillet.
- Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency. If desired, sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
5. Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken and onions to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the sauce.
- Garnish with green onions and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mongolian Chicken
- Cut Uniformly: Thin, bite-sized chicken pieces ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
- Vegetable Additions: Enhance the dish with snow peas, broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Spice It Up: For more heat, add sriracha, sambal oelek, or extra red pepper flakes.
- Fresh Ginger Alternative: Substitute with ginger paste for convenience without compromising on flavor.
- Serving Freshness: Serve promptly to maintain the chicken's crispy coating and the onion’s tender-crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Mongolian Chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: To soak up every drop of the flavorful sauce.
- Garlic Noodles: For an extra layer of indulgence.
- Steamed Vegetables: Balance the richness with lightly cooked greens like bok choy or asparagus.
Conclusion
Mongolian Chicken is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors. With its perfect balance of crispy chicken, sweet-savory sauce, and fresh aromatics, it’s no wonder this recipe is a favorite for home cooks and foodies alike. Follow these steps and pro tips for a meal that’s better than takeout—every single time.
Cook this dish tonight and experience the magic of Mongolian Chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen!