Easy Mongolian Chicken

This 30-minute recipe creates crispy fried chicken in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatics. Perfect over rice or noodles.

Featured in Family Dinner Ideas.

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Updated on Wed, 01 Jan 2025 17:37:10 GMT
A bowl of rice topped with chicken in a savory sauce, garnished with green onions and dried red chilies. Pin it
A bowl of rice topped with chicken in a savory sauce, garnished with green onions and dried red chilies. | quickierecipe.com

Let me share my absolute favorite takeout inspired dish! This Mongolian Chicken recipe has become my secret weapon for those nights when we're craving something special but don't want to order in. After countless tries I've perfected this 30 minute wonder that gives us restaurant quality flavors right from our own kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I stumbled upon this twist on classic Mongolian Beef years ago and honestly it's even better with chicken! The way the crispy chicken pieces get coated in that sweet and savory sauce is pure magic. My family actually prefers this to takeout now and it's so much easier on the wallet.

Ingredients for Mongolian Chicken

  • Chicken: Go for thighs or breasts both work beautifully here.
  • Cornstarch: This creates that amazing crispy coating we're after.
  • Red Dried Chilies: Just enough for a gentle warmth.
  • Garlic and Ginger: Fresh aromatics make all the difference.
  • Green Onions: Adds such lovely fresh flavor and color.
  • Vegetable Oil: For getting that perfect crispy chicken.
  • Soy Sauce: I use low sodium to control the saltiness.
  • Brown Sugar: Creates that perfect sweet balance.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds depth to our sauce.
  • Extra Cornstarch: Just for thickening that gorgeous sauce.

Let's Get Cooking

Start with the Sauce
Mix up that sauce first it gives the flavors time to get friendly while we cook everything else!
Prep Your Chicken
Coat those bite sized pieces in cornstarch they'll get so crispy and delicious.
Time to Fry
Get your oil nice and hot give those chicken pieces plenty of space to get golden and crispy.
Aromatics Time
The smell when those aromatics hit the pan is absolutely incredible!
Bringing It All Together
Watch that sauce thicken up then toss everything together it's pure kitchen magic!

My Best Tips

  • Add Some Veggies: Sometimes I toss in whatever vegetables I have on hand.
  • Healthier Option: Try baking it comes out surprisingly crispy!
  • Quick and Easy: No need to marinate the sauce packs enough punch.
  • Heat Level: Adjust those chilies to make it perfect for your taste.

Perfect Pairings

I love serving this over fluffy jasmine rice it soaks up that sauce beautifully! Sometimes I'll switch it up with noodles or pile it on some steamed broccoli. Add some spring rolls on the side and you've got a feast!

Keep It Fresh

This keeps beautifully in the fridge for a few days. Just warm it gently to keep that chicken crispy. You can even freeze portions for busy days ahead just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge.

A serving of chicken coated in a glossy sauce and garnished with green onions, placed on a bed of white noodles in a green bowl. Pin it
A serving of chicken coated in a glossy sauce and garnished with green onions, placed on a bed of white noodles in a green bowl. | quickierecipe.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I store this dish?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or wok until heated through.
→ Can I freeze Mongolian Chicken?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well as a substitute for breast meat and tend to stay more tender.
→ How do I know if the sauce is right?
If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth or water until you reach desired consistency. It should coat the chicken but not be too sticky.
→ What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles. Add steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This 30-minute recipe creates crispy fried chicken in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatics. Perfect over rice or noodles.

Mongolian Chicken

Crispy chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and savory sauce with garlic, ginger, and chilies. A quick homemade alternative to takeout.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Meryem

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Asian

Yield: 4 Servings (4 servings)

Dietary: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium).
02 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for sauce).
03 2 tablespoons brown sugar.
04 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce.
05 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes.
06 1/2 cup cornstarch (for coating).
07 4 cloves garlic, minced.
08 1 teaspoon minced ginger.
09 6 dried red chilies.
10 3 green onions, sliced.
11 1/3 cup vegetable oil.

Instructions

Step 01

Whisk together chicken broth, cornstarch, brown sugar, and soy sauce in a bowl.

Step 02

Toss chicken pieces with cornstarch until completely covered.

Step 03

Heat oil in wok and fry chicken in batches until cooked through and crispy.

Step 04

Leave 1 tablespoon oil in wok, cook garlic, ginger, and chilies for 30 seconds.

Step 05

Add sauce and simmer until thickened. Add chicken and green onions, toss for 15 seconds.

Notes

  1. Can be stored for 3 days in refrigerator.
  2. Freezes well for up to 2 months.
  3. Sauce can be thinned with extra broth if needed.

Tools You'll Need

  • Wok or large pan.
  • Mixing bowl.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Soy (soy sauce).
  • Wheat (cornstarch).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 440
  • Total Fat: 23 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 33 g
  • Protein: 25 g