Easy Mongolian Chicken
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Enjoy a delightful twist on a classic with this Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe. Perfectly tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
This Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe is a delicious way to bring the flavors of Mongolia to your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory sauce that perfectly complements the chicken
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
- A crowd-pleaser that can be served with rice or noodles
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
This Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe showcases a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The combination of soy sauce and brown sugar creates a rich, glossy coating that clings beautifully to the tender chicken. With each bite, you'll experience the umami depth of the soy, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the brown sugar, making it an irresistible dish that everyone will love.
To enhance the flavor profile, the addition of minced garlic and ginger adds a fresh, zesty kick that elevates the dish to new heights. These aromatic ingredients not only contribute to the overall taste but also offer numerous health benefits, making this meal a delicious and nutritious choice for your family.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
In today's fast-paced world, finding a quick and satisfying meal can be a challenge. This Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe is designed with busy weeknights in mind, making it a perfect solution for time-strapped cooks. With minimal prep time and just a few simple steps, you can have a mouthwatering dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
The simplicity of this recipe doesn't compromise on flavor or quality. Using chicken breast ensures that the dish remains light and healthy, while the straightforward cooking method allows even novice cooks to achieve professional-tasting results. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that will keep the whole family happy.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about Easy Mongolian Chicken is its versatility. While serving it over rice or noodles is a classic choice, you can easily adapt the dish to suit your preferences. For a low-carb option, consider serving it on a bed of sautéed vegetables or cauliflower rice for a nutritious twist.
Additionally, this dish can be customized with various toppings and side dishes. Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for some heat or serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a meal that fits your family's tastes and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Mongolian chicken:
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Easy Mongolian Chicken:
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
Simmer
Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens, stirring frequently.
Serve
Garnish the chicken with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your homemade Easy Mongolian Chicken!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! Easy Mongolian Chicken stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture, or use the microwave for a quick option.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, ensuring the best texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information
This Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also offers a well-rounded nutritional profile. Each serving provides a good source of protein from the chicken, essential for muscle repair and growth. The use of low-sodium soy sauce can also help keep sodium levels in check while still delivering that signature savory flavor.
In addition to protein, this dish features healthy fats from the vegetable oil and offers a variety of vitamins and minerals from the garlic, ginger, and green onions. When paired with nutrient-rich sides like vegetables or whole grains, this meal can contribute to a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many home cooks wonder about the best way to ensure their chicken remains juicy and tender. The key lies in marinating the chicken briefly, as suggested in this recipe. This not only infuses flavor but also helps to break down some of the proteins, resulting in a more tender bite.
Another common question is about ingredient substitutions. If you don’t have brown sugar, honey or maple syrup can serve as excellent alternatives, offering a slightly different flavor while maintaining the dish's sweet component. Similarly, feel free to experiment with different protein sources, such as tofu or shrimp, for a delightful twist.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other proteins?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef or tofu.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
→ What should I serve with Mongolian chicken?
It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.
Easy Mongolian Chicken
Enjoy a delightful twist on a classic with this Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe. Perfectly tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens, stirring frequently.
Garnish the chicken with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 28g