Mongolian Chicken

This Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, offering that delightful combination of sweet and savory that we all crave. If you’ve ever enjoyed Mongolian chicken from your favorite takeout spot but wished you could whip it up at home, then you’re in for a treat! Not only is this recipe simple, but it also makes use of common ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, the crispy texture of the chicken mixed with the thick, flavorful sauce will make you feel like a dinner hero. Imagine serving this up to your family or friends, and watching their eyes light up with joy as they dig in.

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So, grab your aprons as we dive into the world of Easy Mongolian Chicken, and get ready to impress without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why This Recipe Works

This Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, ensuring that each bite is a delight. The use of cornstarch creates a crispy texture on the chicken, reminiscent of your favorite takeout, but made healthier and faster at home. The brown sugar and soy sauce meld beautifully, providing a rich taste that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Mongolian Chicken

You’ll appreciate how quickly this dish comes together, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Not only is it easy, but it also requires simple ingredients that you may already have at home. Plus, this recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to tweak it to fit your family’s tastes. Whether you prefer it spicy or sweet, you can adjust the heat and the amount of sugar based on your preferences. It’s straightforward enough for beginners but flavorful enough to impress seasoned cooks.

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 small bunch scallions (green parts only), cut into 1″ pieces
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

Cutting the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-size pieces and placing them in a medium bowl. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavors beautifully. You want pieces that are roughly the same size for even cooking.

Seasoning the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. It’s important to sprinkle 3 tablespoons of cornstarch over the chicken, as this will help create that crispy texture we love. Toss the chicken until all the pieces are fully coated, giving them a nice, even layer.

Making the Sauce

Whisking the Sauce Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, water, low sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk together until smooth. It’s all about blending those ingredients perfectly to create a rich, flavorful sauce that clings to the chicken.

Cooking the Chicken

Heating the Oil

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes until the oil is shimmering. This is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown color.

Browning the Chicken

Add half of the seasoned chicken to the skillet, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan for better browning. Cook for about 4 minutes, then flip the pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until browned and cooked through (165°F). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken, adding another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.

Combining Ingredients

Adding Back the Chicken

Once the second batch of chicken is done, turn off the burner and return all the chicken back to the skillet alongside the chopped scallions.

Pouring the Sauce

Immediately pour the prepared sauce into the hot skillet. The heat will cause the sauce to thicken in about 30 seconds to one minute. Toss everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated. This step ensures that every piece is drenched in that delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Now comes the fun part! Serve your Easy Mongolian Chicken over steamed rice or chow mein noodles, garnished with additional scallions for that pop of color. You can also pair it with a side of sautéed vegetables for an extra nutritional boost. This not only makes your plate look appealing but adds a lot of flavor to the meal.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that perfect crispiness.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes for an extra zing.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking; this will enhance the taste even more.

Variations

If you want to mix things up a bit, consider swapping chicken for tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also add bell peppers or snap peas to the dish for added nutrition and texture. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of soy sauce, like teriyaki, for a unique flavor twist.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store Mongolian chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. This way, you can enjoy it just as much the next day!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cutting and seasoning.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store separately until you’re ready to cook.

4. How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is mild, but you can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference.

5. Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas make great additions for extra flavor and nutrients.

This Easy Mongolian Chicken is not only a quick dinner option but also a dish that brings the flavors of takeout home without the hassle. With its crispy chicken and luscious sauce, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy the cooking experience and savor every delicious bite!

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