Name: Mongolian Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (thinly sliced); 1/4 cup cornstarch (divided use); 2 teaspoons cornstarch (for sauce thickening); 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1.5 teaspoons minced garlic; 1 teaspoon minced ginger; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce; 1/3 cup water; 1/2 cup dark brown sugar; 1/2 cup green onions (cut into 1 inch pieces); salt and pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Mongolian Chicken

If you’re craving something that’s both delicious and easy to whip up in your kitchen, then Mongolian chicken is your answer! This dish transforms the classic take-out favorite into a homemade delight, boasting crispy slices of chicken breast coated in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s not just about taste; making it at home means you can control every ingredient that goes in, making it a healthier option compared to restaurant versions.

Why Homemade Mongolian Chicken is a Game-Changer?

First, let’s talk about the flavor profile. The melding of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. When you prepare Mongolian chicken yourself, you have the freedom to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste. Want it spicier? Throw in some red pepper flakes. Prefer it sweeter? Extra brown sugar does the trick.

Not only is this dish customizable, but it also fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle. With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve in half an hour. Plus, it's a fantastic way to impress friends or family during a casual dinner get-together.

For a more in-depth look at different variations and tips, you can check out this blog that dives even deeper into Mongolian cuisine. Let’s get started with the recipe!

Ingredients for Mongolian Chicken

Essential ingredients for a delicious dish

Creating a flavorful Mongolian chicken dish begins with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Breast: 1 ¼ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced for quick cooking and tenderness.
Cornstarch: ¼ cup plus 2 teaspoons, which helps achieve that signature crispy texture.
Vegetable Oil: 3 tablespoons for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
Minced Garlic and Ginger: 1 ½ teaspoons of garlic and 1 teaspoon of ginger bring bold flavors.
Toasted Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon adds a nutty aroma.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce: ½ cup for that essential umami flavor.
Dark Brown Sugar: ½ cup to balance out the savory notes.
Green Onions: A lovely addition that adds color and a fresh kick, sliced into 1-inch pieces.

Pantry staples you might already have

Before you rush to the store, check your pantry! You probably have some of these staples already:

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
Water: A key component for the sauce.

By using these common ingredients, you can whip up a mouthwatering Mongolian chicken dish without much hassle. It's a delightful meal that feels like a restaurant experience right in your home! For deeper insights into the ingredients, check out Serious Eats for cooking tips and tricks.

Preparing Mongolian Chicken

Creating a delicious homemade Mongolian Chicken is easier than you might think! It’s all about the right preparation and cooking methods to achieve that perfect blend of crispy chicken and savory sauce. Let’s walk through the essential steps together.

Prep Your Ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, gather all your ingredients for Mongolian Chicken. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 ¼ pounds of boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
¼ cup + 2 teaspoons of cornstarch (divided)
3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 ½ teaspoons of minced garlic
1 teaspoon of minced ginger
1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil
½ cup of low sodium soy sauce
⅓ cup of water
½ cup of dark brown sugar
½ cup of green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt and pepper to taste

By measuring and prepping your ingredients beforehand, you’ll be able to focus on perfecting your cooking technique. When slicing the chicken, ensure that the pieces are even for uniform cooking.

Coat the Chicken for That Crispy Texture

For that ideal crispy texture, place your sliced chicken and ¼ cup of cornstarch into a resealable plastic bag. Seal the bag and give it a good shake to coat the chicken evenly. This step is crucial because the cornstarch is what gives your chicken that delightful crunch. You can also mix in a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor right from the start.

Cooking the Chicken Until Golden Brown

Now it’s time to bring out the skillet! Heat your vegetable oil in a large pan over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this will help the chicken fry properly rather than steam. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. If necessary, you can do this in batches to ensure that every piece gets that lovely crispy exterior. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Create the Savory Sauce

While your chicken is resting, let’s whip up that irresistible sauce! In the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing them for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, water, and dark brown sugar to the pan. Bring to a simmer—it’s the moment when the magic starts to happen! To thicken the sauce, mix the remaining 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, then throw it into the sauce and let it boil for 30-60 seconds until it thickens.

Combine Chicken with the Sauce and Garnish

Finally, it's time to bring this Mongolian Chicken to life! Add the crispy chicken back into the pan with the sauce and toss everything together. The goal is to ensure every piece of chicken is generously coated. For that finishing touch, fold in the green onions and serve immediately over cooked rice, if desired. You’ll love how flavorsome and satisfying this dish is!

With a bit of preparation and love, you can create an amazing dish that makes any weeknight feel special. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share your experience with others!

For more cooking tips and delectable recipe ideas, check out resources like Bon Appétit or Serious Eats. They have fantastic culinary advice that can elevate your cooking game!

Variations on Mongolian Chicken

Spicy Mongolian Chicken
Looking to add a little kick to your Mongolian chicken? Just incorporate some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños into the sauce. You can even marinate the chicken in a spicy soy sauce blend before cooking. This gives the dish a delightful heat that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the brown sugar.

Mongolian Chicken with Vegetables
For a colorful twist, toss in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Adding these not only enhances the dish visually but also boosts the nutritional profile. Stir-fry the veggies alongside the chicken until tender-crisp for a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy. Discover more about incorporating vegetables into your meals at Healthy Eating.

These variations are simple ways to make this Mongolian chicken truly your own!

Cooking Tips for Mongolian Chicken

Achieving the Perfect Crispness

To get that perfectly crispy Mongolian chicken, start by ensuring your chicken slices are coated evenly with cornstarch. This gives the meat a lovely crunch when fried. Heating your oil to a high temperature is essential; it should shimmer before adding the chicken. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary. This helps each piece brown beautifully.

Tips for a Balanced Flavor Profile

Balance is key in any dish. When it comes to Mongolian chicken, adjust the soy sauce and brown sugar to suit your palate. Prefer it sweeter? Add a bit more sugar. If you’d like it saltier, a dash more soy sauce will do the trick. Don't forget to incorporate fresh ingredients like ginger and garlic, which bring an aromatic depth to the dish. For more flavor exploration, check out resources like Serious Eats for tips on spice blends and sauces.

Serving suggestions for Mongolian Chicken

What to pair with your dish

When serving Mongolian chicken, consider pairing it with fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up that delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables, like bell peppers and snap peas, for a pop of color and added crunch. Want something a bit healthier? Sautéed greens, such as bok choy or kale, offer nutrition while balancing the dish’s richness.

Creative serving ideas

Elevate your dining experience by serving Mongolian chicken in lettuce cups for a refreshing, low-carb option. You could also create a beautiful platter, drizzling extra sauce on top and garnishing with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro. If you're hosting a dinner, try offering it as part of a DIY Asian feast, featuring spring rolls and dumplings for your guests to enjoy. Don't forget to explore flavor profiles with different sauces; a sweet chili sauce could be a vast addition.

For more tips on Asian-inspired meals, check out this guide to get your creativity flowing.

Time Breakdown for Mongolian Chicken

When you’re craving that delightful flavor of Mongolian chicken, knowing how long it takes to whip it up can make your dinner planning much smoother. Here’s a quick breakdown of the time you’ll need:

Preparation time
Get your ingredients prepped in just 10 minutes! This includes slicing the chicken and measuring out all your sauces and spices.

Cooking time
The actual cooking process takes about 20 minutes. It’s a fast-paced stir-fry that brings everything together while keeping your chicken crispy.

Total time
In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, homemade Mongolian chicken ready to serve! Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing friends. Interested in side dishes that pair well? Check out this article on quick rice recipes for some great ideas!

Nutritional Facts for Mongolian Chicken

When you're diving into the delicious world of Mongolian chicken, it's good to know what you're fueling your body with. Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional breakdown:

Calories

With approximately 452 calories per serving, this dish provides a satisfying balance of flavors without overindulgence.

Protein

Packed with about 32g of protein, Mongolian chicken is an excellent source for those looking to boost their intake, especially after a workout or a long day.

Sodium

The sodium content is around 739mg, primarily from the low-sodium soy sauce, making it a reasonable choice if you're mindful of your daily intake.

Enjoy this flavorful dish and feel good about what you're eating! If you're interested in more recipes and nutritional insights, check out resources like the USDA Food Composition Databases for detailed information.

FAQs about Mongolian Chicken

Can I make Mongolian chicken gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version of this Mongolian chicken, simply swap out the low-sodium soy sauce for a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Cornstarch is typically gluten-free, so you’re safe on that front. This adaptation allows you to enjoy all the flavors without compromising your dietary needs.

What should I serve with Mongolian chicken?

Mongolian chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with fluffy white or brown rice, which will soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas add a vibrant touch and boost the health factor. For a more substantial option, try it with quinoa or even lettuce wraps for a fun twist.

How can I store leftovers effectively?

To keep your Mongolian chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last about 3-4 days. When it’s time to reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to maintain the chicken’s crispiness. If you want to freeze it, ensure it’s completely cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy your meal prep!

Conclusion on Mongolian Chicken

Final Thoughts on Enjoying Homemade Mongolian Chicken

Homemade Mongolian chicken is a delightful dish that brings the essence of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. With its perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness, this recipe enhances any dinner table. Don’t forget to pair it with steamed rice, and savor every delicious bite!