Name: Mongolian Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1¼ lbs chicken breast; ¼ cup cornstarch; 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil; 1½ tsp garlic; 1 tsp ginger; 1 tsp toasted sesame oil; ½ cup low sodium soy sauce; ⅓ cup water; ½ cup dark brown sugar; ½ cup Green Onions; salt and pepper

Mongolian Chicken Delight is a classic Asian dish known for its savory flavors and sticky, sweet sauce. It's a quick and easy meal to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The dish is made with chicken, cornstarch, soy sauce, and other common ingredients, but it's the combination and preparation that make this dish truly special. Served over rice, it's a filling meal that's sure to satisfy.

Photos of Mongolian Chicken Recipe

The ingredients for Mongolian Chicken Delight are quite common in most households. However, if you don't have any on hand, toasted sesame oil might be the only ingredient you need to look out for. It's typically found in the Asian food section of most supermarkets. Toasted sesame oil has a deeper, nuttier flavor than regular sesame oil, making it a key ingredient in this dish.

Ingredients for the Mongolian Chicken Delight

Chicken breast: Lean protein that will be coated and fried.

Cornstarch: Helps to give the chicken a crisp texture.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the chicken.

Garlic: Adds aromatic flavor.

Ginger: Gives a slight heat and unique flavor.

Toasted sesame oil: Adds a distinct nutty flavor.

Soy sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor.

Water: Thins the sauce.

Dark brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to thicken the sauce.

Green onions: Adds freshness and color.

Salt and pepper: Enhances the flavor.

One reader, Adelaida Wilkins says:

I recently tried the Mongolian Chicken Delight recipe and it was a hit! The chicken was perfectly crispy and the sauce was incredibly flavorful. The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce created a delicious blend of savory and sweet. It's definitely a new favorite in my household!

Adelaida Wilkins

Key Techniques for Mastering Mongolian Chicken Delight

How to coat the chicken: Place the chicken and ¼ cup cornstarch in a resealable plastic bag, then shake to coat evenly.

How to brown the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over high heat, then add the chicken to the pan in a single layer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side or until browned.

How to make the sauce: Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for 30 seconds. Then, add the soy sauce, sesame oil, water, and brown sugar to the pan and bring to a simmer. Mix the 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, add the cornstarch to the sauce, and boil for 30 to 60 seconds until just thickened.

How to finish the dish: Add the chicken and green onions to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce. Serve over rice if desired.

How To Make Mongolian Chicken

Make a delicious, filling dinner with this Mongolian chicken tossed in a sweet and sour sauce cooked with ginger, soy sauce, and brown sugar.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1¼lbschicken breast,boneless, skinless, thinly sliced
¼cupcornstarch,plus 2 tsp, divided
3tbspvegetable oil
1½tspgarlic,minced
1tspginger,minced
1tsptoasted sesame oil
½cuplow sodium soy sauce
⅓cupwater
½cupdark brown sugar
½cupgreen onions,cut into 1-inch pieces
salt and pepper,to taste

Instructions

Place the chicken and ¼ cup cornstarch in a resealable plastic bag, shake to coat evenly.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over high heat.
Add the chicken to the pan in a single layer and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side or until browned. Cook in multiple batches if needed.
Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels
Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for 30 seconds. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, water, and brown sugar to the pan and bring to a simmer.
Mix the 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Add the cornstarch to the sauce and boil for 30 to 60 seconds until just thickened.
Add the chicken and green onions to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce. Serve over rice if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 471.91kcal
Fat: 24.89g
Saturated Fat: 4.64g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.44g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.11g
Carbohydrates: 28.69g
Fiber: 0.84g
Sugar: 18.06g
Protein: 32.86g
Cholesterol: 90.72mg
Sodium: 1245.14mg
Calcium: 55.19mg
Potassium: 498.95mg
Iron: 1.92mg
Vitamin A: 40.47µg
Vitamin C: 2.70mg

One Crucial Technique for Perfecting Mongolian Chicken Delight

When cooking the chicken, it's important to not overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown, which can affect the overall flavor of the dish. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure each piece gets a nice, even sear. This will also make it easier to control the cooking process and prevent the chicken from becoming overcooked.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Mongolian Chicken Recipe

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

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal dishes and cook everything in one pot or pan to reduce cleanup time.

Batch cooking: Make larger portions and freeze the extra for future meals to save time on busy days.

Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize tools like food processors, slow cookers, and instant pots to streamline cooking processes and save time.

Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils and ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Mongolian Chicken Recipe

chicken breast - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken for a vegetarian version of the dish. It absorbs flavors well and provides a similar texture to chicken.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a gluten-free alternative to cornstarch for thickening the sauce in the dish. It has similar thickening properties and is a suitable replacement.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the dish and providing a healthy fat alternative.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a milder alternative to garlic, adding a subtle onion flavor to the dish.
ginger - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used as a substitute for ginger, providing a warm and aromatic flavor to the dish.
toasted sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil can be used as a substitute for toasted sesame oil, adding a nutty flavor to the dish.
low sodium soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce, can be used as a substitute for low sodium soy sauce, providing a similar umami flavor to the dish.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for dark brown sugar, providing a natural sweetener with a hint of caramel flavor.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for green onions, providing a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dish.

Plating Ideas for an Impressive Mongolian Chicken Dish

Elevate the plating: When presenting the Mongolian chicken delight, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate height and layers: Build the dish with varying heights and layers to create a visually stunning presentation. Consider stacking the chicken pieces and garnishing with thinly sliced chili peppers for a pop of color and heat.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the main components of the dish to stand out. Use a large, pristine white plate to showcase the vibrant colors of the Mongolian chicken delight.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate. Arrange the chicken pieces with care and precision, and drizzle the sauce strategically to create an artful presentation.
Incorporate texture: Add a textural element to the dish by including a small side of pickled vegetables or crispy wonton strips to provide contrast and complexity.
Highlight the sauce: Use a small squeeze bottle to create a delicate sauce design on the plate, showcasing the rich and flavorful Mongolian sauce as an integral part of the presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a delicate scattering of chopped cilantro for a touch of freshness and added visual appeal.
Consider the plate shape: Choose a plate that complements the overall aesthetic of the dish. A rectangular or oval-shaped plate may provide a modern and sophisticated backdrop for the Mongolian chicken delight.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Mongolian Chicken Delight

Chef's knife: A versatile tool used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients with precision.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Large sauté pan: Ideal for cooking the chicken and creating the sauce for the Mongolian chicken delight.
Resealable plastic bag: Used for coating the chicken with cornstarch before cooking.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the cornstarch slurry and ensuring a smooth, lump-free consistency.
Measuring cups and spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring ingredients such as soy sauce, brown sugar, and water.
Paper towels: Used to drain excess oil from the cooked chicken.
Spatula: Helps in flipping and transferring the chicken while cooking.
Garlic press: Optional tool for mincing garlic with ease.
Grater: If using fresh ginger, a grater can be used to finely grate the ginger for the recipe.

Proper Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Mongolian Chicken Delight

Allow the mongolian chicken to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the mongolian chicken for longer storage:
- Divide the chicken and sauce into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing and to save space.
Frozen mongolian chicken can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen mongolian chicken:
- Thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Transfer the thawed chicken and sauce to a saucepan or skillet.
- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
- If the sauce appears too thick after thawing, add a little water or chicken broth to thin it out.
Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen chicken directly in the microwave:
- Remove the lid from the container or open the resealable bag.
- Microwave on high power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is hot.
Serve the reheated mongolian chicken over freshly cooked rice or noodles, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

The Best Methods for Reheating Mongolian Chicken Leftovers

Reheat in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil or water to the pan to help loosen up the sauce and prevent sticking. Stir frequently until heated through, about 3-5 minutes. This method helps to preserve the texture of the chicken and vegetables while reviving the flavors of the sauce.
Use the microwave for a quick and easy reheating option. Place the leftover mongolian chicken delight in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters and maintain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dish is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and rubbery.
If you have time, reheating in the oven can provide excellent results. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover mongolian chicken delight to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the sauce to thicken and the edges to crisp up slightly.
For a stovetop method that mimics the original cooking process, reheat the leftover mongolian chicken delight in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water, chicken broth, or soy sauce to help loosen the sauce and prevent burning. Stir occasionally until the dish is heated through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
If you have an air fryer, use it to reheat your leftover mongolian chicken delight for a crispy texture. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the dish is heated through and the edges are slightly crispy. This method works best for smaller portions and can help restore some of the original crispiness of the chicken.

Interesting Trivia About Mongolian Chicken Delight

The Mongolian Chicken Delight recipe is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. It is believed to have originated in Taiwan and is known for its sweet and savory flavors. The dish typically features tender pieces of chicken coated in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. The use of green onions adds a fresh and aromatic element to the dish. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a taste of Asian cuisine at home and can be easily customized with additional vegetables or spices to suit individual preferences.

Budgeting for Mongolian Chicken Delight: Is It Cost-Effective?

This Mongolian chicken delight recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The key ingredients like chicken breast, garlic, ginger, and green onions are affordable and readily available. The use of simple pantry staples like soy sauce and brown sugar keeps the cost down. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. The overall verdict for this recipe would be an 8/10 for its affordability and delicious flavor.

Is Mongolian Chicken Delight a Healthy Choice?

The Mongolian chicken delight recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. The main concerns are:

High sodium content due to the use of soy sauce
Significant amount of added sugar from the brown sugar
Deep frying the chicken in vegetable oil, which may be high in unhealthy fats

However, the recipe also includes some healthy ingredients, such as:

Lean protein from the chicken breast
Ginger and garlic, which have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
Green onions, which provide some vitamins and minerals

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use low-sodium soy sauce or replace some of the soy sauce with a low-sodium alternative like coconut aminos
Reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Instead of deep frying the chicken, try baking, grilling, or stir-frying it in a small amount of heart-healthy oil like olive oil or avocado oil
Add more vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Serve the chicken with brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to add more fiber and nutrients to the meal
Use a leaner cut of chicken, such as chicken tenderloin, to reduce the fat content further

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious meal that still captures the delicious flavors of Mongolian chicken.

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on Mongolian Chicken Delight

The Mongolian Chicken Delight recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The use of cornstarch gives the chicken a crispy texture, while the sauce, infused with garlic, ginger, and soy, adds depth and richness. The balance of brown sugar and soy sauce creates a perfect harmony of sweet and salty notes. The addition of green onions provides a fresh and vibrant finish. This dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and tender chicken, making it a wonderful choice for a satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Mongolian Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Broccoli: Create a zesty lemon and garlic dressing to drizzle over the steamed broccoli for a burst of flavor.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Toss the sweet potatoes in a mixture of olive oil, rosemary, and honey before roasting to create a sweet and savory side dish.

Fruit Salad: Combine a variety of fresh fruits such as strawberries, kiwi, and pineapple with a honey-lime dressing for a refreshing and colorful fruit salad.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Whip up a batch of creamy mashed potatoes with butter, cream, and roasted garlic for a rich and indulgent side dish.

Tasty Alternatives to Mongolian Chicken Delight

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

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: This lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a light and refreshing dish that's perfect for a summer meal. The combination of tangy lemon, savory garlic, and succulent shrimp is sure to please your taste buds.

Mango Coconut Panna Cotta: This mango coconut panna cotta is a creamy and tropical dessert that's perfect for any occasion. The sweet mango and rich coconut flavors are a match made in heaven, and the silky texture is simply irresistible.

Perfect Appetizer and Dessert Combinations for Mongolian Chicken Delight

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any gathering. Filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, they're sure to be a hit with your guests.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: These crispy coconut shrimp are a delicious and tropical-inspired appetizer that will transport your taste buds to the beach. The shrimp are coated in a crispy coconut breading and fried to perfection, making them the perfect finger food for any party.

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 intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

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

Why trust this Mongolian Chicken Recipe:

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is tender and succulent, coated in a crispy cornstarch crust. The savory garlic and ginger infuse the dish with aromatic depth, while the soy sauce and brown sugar create a luscious, umami-rich glaze. The addition of green onions adds a fresh, vibrant finish. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients and the meticulous cooking process to deliver an unforgettable Mongolian Chicken Delight experience.

Share your thoughts on the Mongolian Chicken Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

What can I use as a substitute for chicken breast?

You can use boneless chicken thighs or tofu as a substitute for chicken breast in this recipe. Both options will work well with the flavors of the dish.

Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low sodium soy sauce?

Yes, you can use regular soy sauce, but be mindful of the saltiness. You may need to adjust the seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Mongolian chicken ahead of time. Simply reheat it gently on the stove before serving to ensure the chicken stays tender and the flavors meld together.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can use white granulated sugar or honey as a substitute for dark brown sugar. Keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the dish to enhance both the flavor and nutritional value. Simply stir-fry the vegetables before adding the sauce to the pan.