Mongolian Chicken (Stovetop)

Mongolian Chicken is a beloved Asian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken with a savory-sweet sauce, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that dance on your palate. This recipe is a favorite among home cooks for its simplicity and incredible taste, making it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a 45-minute preparation and cooking time, you can enjoy restaurant-quality Mongolian Chicken right in your own kitchen!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Flavor: A perfect blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger creates that signature Mongolian taste.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile: Pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Required Kitchen Tools

Large Skillet or Wok: Essential for achieving that perfect stir-fry texture.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Mixing Bowls: For marinating and preparing the sauce.
Whisk: To blend the marinade and sauce ingredients smoothly.
Tongs or Spatula: For flipping and stirring the chicken without losing any of that delicious sauce.
Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping the chicken and vegetables.
Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: Optional, for tenderizing the chicken.

Ingredients for Mongolian Chicken Marinade

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish (exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below):

Boneless Skinless Chicken: The star of the dish, offering a lean protein base.
Vegetable Oil: For sautéing the chicken to a perfect golden brown.
Cornstarch: Helps in creating a crispy exterior for the chicken pieces.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh aromatics that infuse the dish with depth and warmth.
Dried Red Chili Peppers (Optional): Adds a subtle heat, perfect for spice lovers.
Scallions: Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the rich sauce.
Soy Sauce: The umami backbone of the sauce, bringing everything together.
Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Hot Water or Chicken Stock: Creates the base for the sauce, ensuring it’s luscious and thick.
Cornstarch Slurry: Used to thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Variations for Mongolian Chicken

Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
Spicy Kick: Increase the number of dried red chili peppers or add a splash of Sriracha.
Nutty Flavor: Toss in some roasted peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
Herb Freshness: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or basil before serving.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt levels.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Begin by preparing your chicken. Pat the boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior when you cook the chicken. Next, slice the chicken into ¼-inch (6mm) thick strips. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dish.

2. Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken slices with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Mix well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. This not only flavors the meat but also helps in tenderizing it, making each bite succulent and flavorful.

3. Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the savory-sweet sauce that defines Mongolian Chicken. In a separate bowl, whisk together:

2 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
¼ cup hot water or low-sodium chicken stock
2 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed into a slurry with 2 tablespoons water)

This mixture will thicken into a glossy, flavorful sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.

4. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated chicken in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This allows the chicken to sear properly, developing a rich, golden-brown color.

Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and crispy on the edges. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

5. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add an additional ⅓ cup (80ml) of vegetable oil if needed. Sauté the 1 teaspoon of julienned or minced ginger and 2 cloves of chopped garlic until they become fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. If you’re using 5 dried red chili peppers for an extra kick, add them at this stage and sauté until they’re slightly crispy.

6. Combine and Thicken the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Stir well to combine, ensuring that there are no lumps from the cornstarch slurry. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, allowing it to thicken. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss the chicken in the sauce, ensuring every piece is evenly coated and glossy.

7. Final Touches

Add the 3 scallions, cut diagonally into 1-2 inch (5cm) slices, to the skillet. Stir everything together for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the scallions to soften slightly and infuse the dish with their fresh, mild onion flavor.

8. Serve Hot

Your Mongolian Chicken is now ready to be served! Transfer it to a serving dish and garnish with additional scallions or sesame seeds if desired. Pair it with steamed white rice, brown rice, or your favorite noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving and Decoration

Mongolian Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal presentation:

How to Serve Mongolian Chicken

With Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
With Noodles: Toss with lo mein, udon, or rice noodles for a hearty stir-fry meal.
With Vegetables: Add a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.
In Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a low-carb option.
With Garnishes: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and visual appeal.

Plating Tips

Color Contrast: Add vibrant vegetables like red bell peppers or carrots to your plate for a colorful presentation.
Layering: Place a bed of rice or noodles on the plate and top with Mongolian Chicken for an organized look.
Garnishes: A sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh herbs not only adds flavor but also makes the dish look restaurant-quality.
Serving Utensils: Use a large spoon or pair of tongs to neatly transfer the chicken and sauce onto the plate without spilling.

Storing Mongolian Chicken

Refrigeration

If you have leftovers, Mongolian Chicken stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To store:

Let the chicken cool to room temperature.
Transfer it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze Mongolian Chicken for up to 3 months. To freeze:

Allow the dish to cool completely.
Divide it into portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

To reheat:

Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much.
Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.

Note: Avoid overcooking during reheating to prevent the chicken from becoming dry.

Nutrition

Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	75mg
Sodium	900mg
Fiber	1g
Sugar	15g
Vitamin A	10% DV
Vitamin C	5% DV
Calcium	6% DV
Iron	8% DV

Values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements.

Conclusion

Mongolian Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the rich flavors of Asian cuisine right to your dinner table. Its combination of tender chicken, savory-sweet sauce, and fresh scallions creates a harmonious blend that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with its easy preparation and ability to customize, Mongolian Chicken is a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!

Mongolian Chicken FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are an excellent choice as they are more tender and flavorful compared to chicken breasts. They also stay juicy during cooking, making your Mongolian Chicken even more delicious.

How can I make the dish spicier?

If you love heat, there are several ways to amp up the spiciness:

Increase Dried Red Chili Peppers: Add more dried chili peppers to the marinade or during sautéing.
Add Fresh Chilies: Incorporate sliced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers.
Spicy Sauce Additions: Mix in a splash of hot sauce like Sriracha or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! To make Mongolian Chicken gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative that maintains the same rich umami flavor.

What side dishes go well with Mongolian Chicken?

Mongolian Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, including:

Steamed Rice: White, brown, or jasmine rice works perfectly.
Noodles: Try serving it over lo mein, udon, or rice noodles.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots add color and nutrition.
Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves for a refreshing and low-carb option.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Marinate the chicken up to 8 hours before cooking for enhanced flavor. Additionally, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! Mongolian Chicken is perfect for meal prepping. Store it in individual containers with your choice of sides, such as rice and vegetables, for easy, grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

How do I ensure the chicken stays crispy?

To keep the chicken crispy:

Proper Coating: Ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated with cornstarch.
High Heat: Cook the chicken on medium-high heat to achieve a crispy exterior.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming, which can make the chicken soggy.
Serve Immediately: For maximum crispiness, serve the chicken right after tossing it in the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Adding vegetables not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors and textures. Popular choices include bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and mushrooms. Simply stir-fry the vegetables in the skillet before adding the sauce and chicken back in.

What can I substitute for brown sugar?

If you need a substitute for brown sugar, consider the following options:

Honey or Maple Syrup: These can add sweetness with a different flavor profile.
Coconut Sugar: A great alternative that provides a similar sweetness level.
White Sugar: Use in a 1:1 ratio, though it lacks the molasses flavor of brown sugar.

Can I use this recipe for other proteins?

Absolutely! This versatile sauce works well with various proteins, including:

Beef: Thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin.
Pork: Thinly sliced pork tenderloin or chops.
Tofu: Firm tofu, pressed and cubed, for a vegetarian option.
Shrimp: Peeled and deveined shrimp cook quickly and absorb the flavors beautifully.

Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked through and tender.

Enjoy crafting this delectable Mongolian Chicken in your kitchen! Its rich flavors and comforting textures are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Happy cooking!