Delicious homemade Mongolian chicken served with vegetables and rice

Best Mongolian Chicken Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Mongolian Chicken is a delicious dish that is loved for its sweet and savory flavors. It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. The crispy chicken coated in a rich sauce makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

how to make Best Mongolian Chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly into strips
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for flavor)

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • ¼ cup water
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnish:

  • 3 green onions, sliced (both green and white parts)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced chicken strips with cornstarch until evenly coated. Let the chicken sit for about 10 minutes to allow the cornstarch to adhere.

  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken strips in batches (avoid overcrowding) and stir-fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the sesame oil and swirl it around for flavor.

  3. Make the Mongolian Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy.

  4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes to let the chicken absorb the flavors. If you’d like some heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.

  5. Serve: Transfer the Mongolian chicken to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

how to serve Best Mongolian Chicken

Serve the Mongolian Chicken hot, over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or your choice of noodles. You can also pair it with a side of vegetables to create a balanced meal. Enjoy it with family and friends for a delightful dinner experience!

how to store Best Mongolian Chicken

To store leftovers, let the Mongolian Chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

tips to make Best Mongolian Chicken

  • For extra crunch, let the chicken sit longer after coating it with cornstarch before frying.
  • If you like it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
  • You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the dish for additional flavor and nutrition.

variation

You can make a vegetarian version of Mongolian Chicken by replacing the chicken with tofu or seitan. The cooking process remains the same, and you can still enjoy the rich flavors of the dish.

FAQs

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

2. What can I use instead of soy sauce?
You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative.

3. How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes, so you can control the spice level based on your preference. Simply omit them for a milder dish.