What’s better than takeout Mongolian Chicken? Making it yourself and watching everyone’s jaws drop at how good it is. I mean, who doesn’t love crispy chicken tossed in a sticky, sweet, and savory sauce that clings to every bite? You’ll find yourself stealing seconds before anyone else at the table even finishes their first serving.
This Mongolian Chicken Recipe has become a regular guest at my dinner table. It’s not only easy to whip up but also endlessly customizable. If you’re serving this dish for a cozy night in, pair it with Chicken Taco Soup or Potsticker Soup. Trust me, the combination is pure magic!
Let’s dive into why Mongolian Chicken is such a hit and how you can make it effortlessly delicious.
What is Mongolian Chicken?
A Classic Restaurant Favorite
Mongolian Chicken is the lesser-known but equally delicious cousin of Mongolian Beef. Originating from Chinese-American cuisine, this dish is all about thinly sliced chicken breast stir-fried until crispy and coated in a rich sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
While it’s a favorite at Chinese takeout spots, there’s something extra satisfying about recreating it in your kitchen. You get full control over the ingredients, portion sizes, and, best of all, the amount of sauce—because let’s be honest, you’ll want to drizzle that sauce on everything.
Why Homemade is Better
Ever ordered Mongolian Chicken only to feel like they skimped on the sauce or gave you three sad green onions? When you make it at home, none of that nonsense applies. You can customize it to your liking, from the sauce’s sweetness to how crispy you want the chicken. Plus, it’s healthier since you control the oil and sugar.
Ingredients for Mongolian Chicken
Let’s dive into what makes this dish absolutely irresistible.
Key Ingredients for the Sauce
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce forms the backbone of this dish, providing that deep umami flavor. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you want to control the saltiness without sacrificing taste.
Brown Sugar
Ah, the magic of brown sugar! It gives the sauce its signature sweetness and helps create that beautiful caramel-like glaze.
Sesame Oil
A little sesame oil goes a long way in adding nutty depth. It’s one of those ingredients that makes your kitchen smell like a professional restaurant.
Additional Ingredients for Flavor
Garlic
Minced garlic adds that bold, punchy flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
Ginger
Freshly grated ginger is a must for a zingy kick. It balances out the sweetness of the sauce beautifully.
Green Onions
These bring a fresh, slightly sharp bite to the dish. Plus, they make it look oh-so-pretty!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mongolian Chicken
Preparing the Chicken
Tips for Slicing Chicken Thinly
Pro tip: Pop your chicken breasts in the freezer for about 20 minutes before slicing. This makes it so much easier to get those thin, even slices. Trust me, you’ll feel like a knife-wielding wizard.
Why Cornstarch is Essential
Coating your chicken in cornstarch isn’t just for show—it’s the secret to getting that crispy exterior that holds up beautifully in the sauce. Think of it as a protective layer that keeps the chicken tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Stir Frying the Chicken
Getting the Perfect Crispy Texture
The key here is to stir-fry your chicken in batches. Overcrowding the pan is a one-way ticket to soggy-ville. Cook in small portions over medium-high heat for that golden, crispy perfection.
Pro Tip: Serve your Mongolian Chicken with a warm side of Potsticker Soup to round out the meal with another irresistible dish.
Making the Mongolian Sauce
How to Balance Sweet and Savory
It’s all about tasting as you go. If you want it sweeter, add a touch more brown sugar. If you crave more savory depth, splash in a little extra soy sauce. Cooking is an art, not a science—experiment!
Tips for Perfect Mongolian Chicken
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken Breast vs. Chicken Thighs
Prefer juicy dark meat? Go for chicken thighs instead of breasts. They’re a bit fattier and extra tender, making them a great alternative.
Using Shrimp or Other Proteins
Feeling adventurous? Swap the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef for a tasty twist!. I’ve tried it with shrimp, and let me tell you—it’s a game-changer.
Adding Vegetables
While traditional Mongolian Chicken keeps it simple with green onions, you can totally jazz it up with veggies. Some great options include:
- Zucchini for a fresh, light crunch
- Water Chestnuts for texture
- Carrots for a hint of sweetness
- Broccoli for added nutrients
- Mushrooms for an earthy flavor
- Red Peppers for a pop of color
Want to try more veggie-packed soups? Check out this Chicken Taco Soup for a hearty, flavorful option.
Serving Suggestions
Over Steamed Rice
Nothing beats the classic pairing of Mongolian Chicken with fluffy white rice.
Zucchini Noodles for Low-Carb Options
Trying to cut carbs? Zoodles (zucchini noodles) are a fresh and healthy alternative.
Pairing with Chow Mein
Feeling indulgent? Serve this dish alongside a plate of chow mein for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy to Make
You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen to whip this up.
Perfect for Families
Kids and adults alike will love this dish. My kids even ask for it as leftovers—if there are any left!
Versatile for Meal Prep
Double the recipe and pack it up for lunches throughout the week. Trust me, your coworkers will be jealous.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mongolian Chicken
What’s the secret to getting crispy chicken without deep frying?
Coating the chicken in cornstarch and stir-frying in small batches over high heat is the trick!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and you’re good to go.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep the chicken crispy.
What vegetables work best with Mongolian chicken?
Zucchini, broccoli, mushrooms, and red peppers are all fantastic options.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for some heat.
More Asian Dishes You’ll Enjoy
If you loved this Mongolian Chicken Recipe, check out these other crowd-pleasers:
- Best Winter Soup Recipes
- Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup
- Chicken Potato Soup Crock Pot
- Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Mongolian Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breasts thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for stir-frying
- For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
- 1/4 cup water
- For Garnish:
- 4 green onions sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Thinly slice the chicken breasts (freezing for 20 minutes beforehand makes slicing easier).
- Coat the chicken evenly in cornstarch and shake off any excess.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken in batches, ensuring the pan isn’t overcrowded. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same pan, add garlic and ginger, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and water. Stir and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Combine:
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat the pieces evenly in the sauce.
- Stir in sliced green onions and cook for another minute.
- Serve:
- Serve the Mongolian Chicken over steamed rice, zucchini noodles, or chow mein.
Notes
- Substitutions: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef for a different protein.
- Vegetables: Add broccoli, red peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.
- Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Pair it with Potsticker Soup or Chicken Taco Soup for a complete meal!
Mongolian Chicken is one of those recipes that’s both ridiculously simple and undeniably delicious. Whether you’re serving it to impress dinner guests or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish never disappoints.
Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to pair it with some Potsticker Soup for a complete feast. If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends or leave a review below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
