Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken Recipe

This slow cooker Mongolian chicken recipe is a flavorful blend of sweet and savory. It's easy to make with minimal prep, and it fills your home with a delightful aroma. The result is succulent chicken thighs coated in a rich sauce that will remind you of your favorite Asian restaurant. This dish is perfect for those busy weekdays when you want a home-cooked meal waiting for you at the end of the day.

Photos of Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are relatively common and should be easily found in most supermarkets. However, you might want to pay attention to the soy sauce and sesame seeds. Opt for lite soy sauce if available, as it contains less sodium but still offers the same great flavor. Sesame seeds might be located in the spice aisle, but they are also often found in the Asian food section.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken

Chicken thighs: The star of this dish, chicken thighs are used for their flavor and tenderness. They can withstand the long cooking time without drying out.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the dish. Lite soy sauce is recommended.

Dark brown sugar: Gives the sauce its sweet flavor and helps thicken it.

Ground ginger: Adds a spicy, aromatic element to the sauce.

Garlic powder: Provides a savory depth to the sauce.

Sesame seeds: Used as a garnish, they add a slight crunch and nutty flavor.

Green onions: Also used as a garnish, they add color and a fresh, sharp flavor.

One reader, Fionnula Devito says:

This slow cooker Mongolian chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and savory, and the chicken comes out so tender. It's incredibly easy to prepare, and the aroma while it's cooking is simply mouthwatering. This recipe has become a family favorite in no time!

Fionnula Devito

Essential Techniques for Making Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken

How to mix the ingredients: Combine the lite soy sauce, dark brown sugar, ground ginger, and garlic powder in a bowl until well mixed.

How to set the chicken into the slow cooker: Place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker, ensuring they are arranged skin side up.

How to cook on low or high: Set the slow cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.

How to garnish with sesame seeds or green onions: Sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped green onions over the cooked chicken before serving, if desired.

How To Make Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken

This Mongolian chicken recipe is slow-cooked in a flavorful soy sauce, dark brown sugar, ginger, and garlic sauce. It’s a rich dish that’s so easy to do.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5chicken thighs ,bone in and skin on
¼cuplite soy sauce ,low sodium
½cupdark brown sugar
½tspground ginger ,or 2 tsps fresh ginger, minced
½tspgarlic powder ,or 2 tbsps fresh garlic, minced
sesame seeds,for garnish, optional
green onions,sliced, for garnish, optional

Instructions

Mix all the ingredients and set the chicken into the slow cooker skin side up.
Cook on Low for 8 hours or on High for 4 hours.
Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions (optional).

Nutrition

Calories: 490.53kcal
Fat: 32.11g
Saturated Fat: 8.74g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.40g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.71g
Carbohydrates: 15.77g
Fiber: 0.14g
Sugar: 14.15g
Protein: 33.12g
Cholesterol: 189.14mg
Sodium: 619.37mg
Calcium: 29.82mg
Potassium: 463.96mg
Iron: 1.64mg
Vitamin A: 44.39µg
Vitamin C: 0.00mg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken

When preparing your chicken thighs for this recipe, it's important to trim off any excess fat. This will prevent your dish from becoming too greasy as it cooks in the slow cooker. Additionally, if you prefer a more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic powder mixture overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut ingredients: Utilize pre-cut vegetables and pre-made sauces to cut down on prep time.

Slow cooker magic: Utilize a slow cooker to let the flavors meld together while saving time on active cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken Recipe

Chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken thighs, with a similar texture and flavor when cooked in a slow cooker.
Lite soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos can be used as a gluten-free and lower-sodium alternative to soy sauce, providing a similar umami flavor.
Dark brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a less refined alternative to dark brown sugar, providing a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor.
Ground ginger - Substitute with fresh grated ginger: Fresh grated ginger can be used for a more intense and fresher ginger flavor compared to ground ginger.
Garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Minced garlic can be used for a more pungent and fresh garlic flavor compared to garlic powder.
Sesame seeds - Substitute with chopped peanuts: Chopped peanuts can provide a similar nutty crunch and flavor as sesame seeds in the dish.
Green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a milder alternative to green onions, providing a similar onion flavor and a pop of color to the dish.

How to Present Mongolian Chicken for Maximum Appeal

Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker Mongolian chicken, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Arrange the chicken thighs in a deliberate and artistic manner on the plate to showcase the dish's flavors and textures.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce elements of color to the plate to enhance its visual appeal. Consider adding a pop of color with vibrant green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to create a visually striking presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the Mongolian chicken to take center stage. By strategically leaving areas of the plate empty, you can draw attention to the beautifully cooked chicken thighs and their rich, flavorful sauce.
Balance textures: Incorporate complementary textures to elevate the dining experience. Consider pairing the tender chicken thighs with a crisp and refreshing side dish to create a harmonious balance of textures that will impress the discerning palates of Michelin-starred judges.
Emphasize precision: Pay close attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that every detail is meticulously arranged with precision. This level of attention to detail demonstrates a commitment to culinary excellence and elevates the overall presentation of the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken

Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering food at a lower temperature over a longer period of time.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients together.
Measuring cup: A kitchen utensil used primarily to measure the volume of liquid or bulk solid cooking ingredients.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients such as eggs and sauces.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for mixing, spreading, and lifting.

Storing and Freezing Mongolian Chicken Made in a Slow Cooker

Let the mongolian chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. This will prevent condensation from forming and keep the chicken fresh for longer.
If you plan to consume the leftovers within 3-4 days, store the cooled mongolian chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will maintain its quality and flavor.
For longer storage, freeze the mongolian chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing them to prevent freezer burn.
When freezing, consider portioning the mongolian chicken into individual servings or meal-sized portions. This allows you to thaw only what you need, making it more convenient for future meals.
Label the containers or freezer bags with the date of preparation and the contents. Mongolian chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat the frozen mongolian chicken, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat it in a skillet or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you prefer, you can also reheat the frozen mongolian chicken directly from the freezer. Place the frozen chicken in a covered dish and reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through and reaches a safe internal temperature.

How To Reheat Leftover Mongolian Chicken

Reheat the mongolian chicken in a skillet or wok over medium heat until it's heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method allows you to quickly reheat the chicken while maintaining its texture and preventing it from becoming soggy. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent the sauce from burning.
Place the leftover mongolian chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Stir the chicken halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. The damp paper towel helps to prevent the chicken from drying out during microwaving.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover mongolian chicken to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method is ideal if you have a large amount of leftover chicken and want to reheat it all at once. The aluminum foil helps to retain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
If you have a steamer, you can use it to reheat the mongolian chicken. Place the chicken in a heat-proof dish and set it in the steamer. Steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
For a quick and easy reheating option, use an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover mongolian chicken in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method is perfect for achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and flavorful.

Interesting Trivia About Mongolian Chicken

Mongolian chicken is not actually a traditional dish from Mongolia. It is believed to have originated in Taiwan and is a popular Chinese-American dish.

Is Making Mongolian Chicken in a Slow Cooker Cost-Effective?

This slow cooker Mongolian chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are affordable and readily available, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of chicken thighs is economical, and the other ingredients such as soy sauce, brown sugar, and spices are commonly found in most kitchens. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $10-$15, making it a great choice for a delicious and budget-friendly meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?

The slow cooker Mongolian chicken recipe, while flavorful, may not be the healthiest option due to a few key ingredients:

Brown sugar: The recipe calls for a significant amount of dark brown sugar, which can contribute to high sugar intake and potential health issues like obesity and diabetes.
Soy sauce: Although the recipe specifies lite soy sauce, it still contains sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health concerns when consumed in excess.
Chicken thighs: While chicken is a good source of protein, chicken thighs are higher in fat compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in a smaller quantity
Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos as a substitute to decrease the sodium content
Opt for skinless chicken thighs or replace them with chicken breasts to lower the fat content
Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and carrots to the slow cooker to increase the nutrient density of the dish
Serve the Mongolian chicken with a side of steamed brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to incorporate more whole grains and fiber

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more balanced and nutritious version of this delicious slow cooker Mongolian chicken recipe.

Editor's Opinion on the Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken Recipe

This slow cooker Mongolian chicken recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The use of dark brown sugar adds a rich sweetness, while the soy sauce and spices provide a depth of umami. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and infused with the delicious sauce. The dish can be garnished with sesame seeds and green onions for added texture and freshness. Overall, it's a simple yet flavorful recipe that is sure to impress with its balance of flavors and succulent chicken.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic, perfect for soaking up the flavorful Mongolian chicken sauce.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and tender roasted vegetables, adding a healthy and vibrant touch to the rich Mongolian chicken dish.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing and juicy fruit salad, balancing out the savory flavors of the Mongolian chicken with a burst of natural sweetness.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: This spicy beef stir-fry is a perfect combination of tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. It's a quick and easy dish that's sure to satisfy your cravings for something spicy and savory.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This mango salsa chicken is a refreshing and tropical twist on traditional chicken dishes. The sweet and tangy flavors of the mango salsa pair perfectly with the tender and juicy chicken, creating a dish that's bursting with flavor.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for any time of year. The rich and velvety texture of the soup, combined with the fresh and aromatic flavors of the tomatoes and basil, makes it a true crowd-pleaser.

Chocolate Lava Cake: This decadent chocolate lava cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that's perfect for any special occasion. The warm and gooey center of the cake, paired with the rich and velvety chocolate, creates a dessert that's truly irresistible.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. The combination of creamy cheese, flavorful herbs, and earthy mushrooms will leave everyone wanting more.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with these classic bruschetta appetizers. The crisp bread, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together for a burst of fresh and vibrant flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken Recipe:

This slow cooker Mongolian chicken recipe guarantees tender, flavorful results every time. The combination of lite soy sauce, dark brown sugar, and aromatic spices infuses the chicken thighs with irresistible flavors. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich and savory dish. Plus, the option to garnish with sesame seeds and green onions adds a delightful touch. Trust this recipe for a hassle-free, delicious slow cooker meal that will surely impress your taste buds.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster than thighs, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I substitute the lite soy sauce with regular soy sauce?

Absolutely, you can use regular soy sauce as a substitute for lite soy sauce. Just be mindful that regular soy sauce is saltier, so you might want to use a bit less and adjust to taste.

Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can still make this recipe without a slow cooker. Simply cook the chicken in a covered skillet or pot on low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Certainly, you can reduce the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences. Just keep in mind that the sweetness balances the saltiness of the soy sauce, so adjust accordingly.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken?

Absolutely, adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking can infuse the dish with extra flavor and texture. Just ensure the vegetables are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.