Mongolian Chicken is your go-to recipe when you want something fast, flavorful, and far more satisfying than takeout. With crispy chicken tossed in a glossy, garlicky soy-based sauce and just the right kick of ginger, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen in under 30 minutes. You don’t need exotic ingredients or a wok to pull it off—just a few basics and a good appetite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe: Crispy, tender chicken pieces coated in a sticky-sweet sauce? What’s not to love? This Mongolian Chicken hits all the right notes—savory, slightly sweet, with a subtle bite of heat. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, and it reheats beautifully. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it over rice, noodles, or even in a wrap for a killer lunch the next day.
Ingredients for Mongolian Chicken
Creating Mongolian Chicken is all about using fresh, quality ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and tender, making them perfect for absorbing the savory sauce.
Soy sauce: This adds a rich umami flavor, giving depth to the dish.
Hoisin sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the soy sauce beautifully.
Brown sugar: This sweetener balances the savory elements, creating that irresistible glaze.
Vegetable oil: Used for cooking the chicken, it helps achieve a nice sear.
Minced garlic: A must-have for that aromatic kick that elevates the dish.
Minced ginger: Adds warmth and a hint of spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Chopped green onions: These provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, these can spice things up!
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken to perfection.
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute half of the brown sugar with a sugar alternative for a healthier twist.
If you want to add some color and nutrition, toss in vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing.
How to Make Mongolian Chicken
Making Mongolian Chicken is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step.
With just a few simple actions, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready to serve.
Let’s get started!
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger.
Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
This sauce is the heart of your Mongolian Chicken, so make sure it’s well mixed.
Set it aside for now; it’ll be ready to work its magic soon!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the bite-sized chicken thighs.
Season them with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
The aroma will be irresistible, trust me!
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
Stir well to coat every piece evenly.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
This allows it to thicken slightly, creating that luscious glaze we all love.
Step 4: Add Green Onions and Serve
Finally, stir in the chopped green onions and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cook for an additional 2 minutes, just enough to soften the onions.
Now, it’s time to serve!
Spoon your Mongolian Chicken over a bed of rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Enjoy the delightful flavors and watch your family dig in!
Tips for Success
Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar to your taste.
For extra crunch, add vegetables like snap peas or carrots.
Let the sauce simmer longer for a thicker consistency if desired.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders, but any large pan will do.
Medium bowl: For mixing the sauce; a measuring cup can also work.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and ensuring even cooking.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping the chicken and green onions.
Variations
Spicy Mongolian Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist.
Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles.
Sweet and Sour Twist: Mix in pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil or cilantro at the end for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Mongolian Chicken over fluffy white rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
Pair it with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a colorful, nutritious side.
A chilled Asian-inspired cucumber salad complements the dish perfectly.
For drinks, try a light beer or iced green tea to balance the flavors.
FAQs about Mongolian Chicken
What can I serve with Mongolian Chicken?
Mongolian Chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or noodles. You can also add steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a nutritious touch.
Can I make Mongolian Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to cook.
Is Mongolian Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can be gluten-free! Just ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce for a safe and delicious meal.
How can I make Mongolian Chicken spicier?
If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce. You can also toss in some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Just remember that they may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Mongolian Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments.
The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the vibrant colors on your plate, and the smiles around the table make it all worthwhile.
This dish is a celebration of flavors that brings family and friends together, turning an ordinary weeknight into something special.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is your ticket to culinary success.
So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let Mongolian Chicken become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!
A simple and delicious recipe for Mongolian Chicken, featuring tender chicken thighs coated in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
Reduce heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Stir in the chopped green onions and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
For a healthier version, substitute half of the brown sugar with a sugar substitute.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
