Name: Mongolian Chicken Recipe That Will WOW Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (Can substitute with pork, beef, or shrimp); 1 cup Cornstarch (Essential for crispy coating); ½ cup Vegetable Oil (Can substitute with canola or peanut oil); ½ cup Soy Sauce (Use low-sodium for a healthier option); ¼ cup Brown Sugar (Adjust amount to taste); ¼ cup Rice Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar works as a substitute); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (Can use olive oil, but flavor will change); 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for spiciness); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Fresh is best); 1 tablespoon Ginger (minced) (Fresh ginger enhances the taste); 2 stalks Green Onions (Use both white and green parts for flavor)

As the sizzling sound of chicken frying fills the kitchen, my heart races with excitement. I’m about to share my favorite twist on a classic dish: this crispy Mongolian Chicken recipe. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, combining tender chicken thighs coated in a crunchy layer with a sweet and savory sauce that you won’t be able to resist. The best part? This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly customizable, whether you prefer it spicy or need a vegetarian option like tofu. Each bite brings a delightful balance of flavors that lifts your spirits and satisfies the whole family. Curious about how to make this crowd-pleaser? Let’s dive into the mouthwatering details!

Why Is This Mongolian Chicken Recipe Special?

Ease of Preparation: Simply toss your chicken in cornstarch and fry—no complicated steps involved!
Customizable Flavor: Adjust the sweetness, spice levels, or try a vegetarian twist using tofu or tempeh!
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish over rice, noodles, or alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress friends with its vibrant flavors.
Time-Saving Delight: Ready in under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table without the hassle.
Unique Texture: Experience the contrast of crispy chicken with a sticky, glossy sauce that tantalizes your taste buds!

Mongolian Chicken Recipe Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this flavorful Mongolian Chicken dish!

For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – A tender protein source; feel free to substitute with pork, beef, or shrimp, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
• Cornstarch – Essential for that irresistibly crispy coating; don’t skip this step!
• Vegetable Oil – Needed for frying; can be swapped with canola or peanut oil for different flavor profiles.

For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – The umami base of this Mongolian Chicken recipe; use low-sodium for a healthier option.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the savory sauce with sweetness; adjust the amount to fit your taste.
• Rice Vinegar – Adds necessary acidity; apple cider vinegar works in a pinch!
• Sesame Oil – For depth of flavor; olive oil can be used but will change the overall taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional but recommended for a spicy kick; adjust based on your heat preference.

For the Aromatics
• Garlic (minced) – Enriches the dish’s aroma and flavor; fresh is best!
• Ginger (minced) – Provides warmth; using fresh ginger enhances the taste significantly.
• Green Onions – Adds a burst of freshness; both white and green parts can be included for extra flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mongolian Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Toss the chicken in a bowl with cornstarch, coating each piece thoroughly. This essential step will create that irresistible crispy texture once fried. Set the coated chicken aside while you prepare the skillet.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding, frying them for 5-7 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust as a visual cue that they’re ready. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, remove excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Sauté chopped green onions, minced garlic, and ginger over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen! Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring to combine, and let it come to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Combine
Add the fried chicken back into the skillet, making sure to coat each piece in the sticky sauce. Stir well and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly, giving the Mongolian Chicken its delightful glossy finish. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is well-coated and bubbling gently.

Step 5: Serve
Once combined, remove the skillet from heat and serve your aromatic Mongolian Chicken over fluffy rice or noodles. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle additional chopped green onions on top. This vibrant dish not only pleases the palate but also makes for an impressive centerpiece at your dinner table.

Expert Tips for the Best Mongolian Chicken

Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure even frying and a crispy texture. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than frying!
Hot Oil Check: Always ensure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken. A small piece of coated chicken should sizzle upon contact; this ensures that the coating becomes crispy.
Personalize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the balance of sweetness and salt in your Mongolian Chicken recipe. Start with less sugar, and taste as you go until it’s perfect for you!
Rest for Tenderness: Let the cooked chicken rest for a minute before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender bite.
Protein Substitutions: When swapping proteins, be mindful of the cooking times. Shrimp cooks quickly while beef often requires longer to tenderize, so adjust accordingly.

Storage Tips for Mongolian Chicken Recipe

Fridge: Store leftover Mongolian Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while maintaining freshness.

Freezer: If you want to save it longer, freeze the chicken in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to ensure the chicken stays crispy. You can add a splash of water to create steam, keeping it moist without sogginess.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Mongolian Chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.

What to Serve with Crispy Mongolian Chicken with Sweet & Savory Sauce

Create a delightful dining experience by pairing your meal with complementary sides and flavors.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its fragrant, fluffy texture serves as the perfect canvas for the sticky sauce, absorbing all those delicious flavors.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli add a crunchy freshness and vibrant contrast to the crispy chicken, enriching your plate.
Garlic Noodles: Twirly, garlicky noodles offer a satisfyingly slurp-worthy pairing, balancing the sweet and savory notes and making every bite irresistible.
Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette provides a cool contrast to the warm dish, enhancing your dining experience with its crispness.
Spring Rolls: Crispy, fresh spring rolls stuffed with veggies are a delightful appetizer or side, adding another layer of texture and a burst of flavor.
Chardonnay or Riesling: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a sweet Riesling complements the dish beautifully, balancing the flavors without overpowering the palate.
Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with sesame oil add a touch of nuttiness and provide a textural crunch, enhancing the overall Asian-inspired feast.

Make Ahead Options

These Mongolian Chicken bites are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces and tossing it with cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance. Store the coated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its crispiness. Additionally, you can mix the sauce ingredients—soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil—and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chicken until golden, then combine it with the sauce in a skillet; it’ll be just as delicious while saving you valuable cooking time on busy nights!

Mongolian Chicken Recipe Variations

Feel free to explore and customize your dish to suit your taste or dietary preferences!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a delightful plant-based twist. Simply follow the same cooking instructions for a protein-rich alternative.
Extra Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers to the sauce for a fiery kick. Don’t be afraid to play with heat levels until it’s just the way you like it!
Veggie Boost: Toss in colorful vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas when cooking the aromatics. This adds both nutrition and vibrant flavor to your dish.
Low Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep your Mongolian Chicken lighter without sacrificing flavor. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Sweet & Sour Twist: Replace some of the brown sugar with pineapple juice for a fruity, tangy alternative. This gives the dish a tropical vibe that’s a refreshing change!
Crunchy Texture: Add nuts like cashews or peanuts for an additional crunch and flavor dimension. Sprinkle them on top before serving for that delightful texture contrast.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil sprinkled on top before serving. This adds a fresh zing that pairs beautifully with the rich sauce.
Sizzle & Steam: Feel free to serve your Mongolian Chicken with a side of Chili Cozy Nights to warm up those chilly evenings. It’s a perfect complement to the sweet and savory dish!

Mongolian Chicken Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my go-to for this Mongolian Chicken recipe. They’re not only tender and flavorful but also stay juicy during cooking. If you’d prefer a different protein, pork, beef, or shrimp can also work well—just keep an eye on cooking times, as shrimp cook faster than chicken.

How should I store leftovers?
To keep your leftover Mongolian Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for the best results. This way, you can retain that delectable crispy texture without making it soggy.

Can I freeze Mongolian Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze Mongolian Chicken for up to 2 months. I recommend placing it in a sealed freezer bag or container. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When you’re ready to eat, just warm it gently in a skillet to preserve its crunch!

What can I do if the sauce is too sweet?
If you find the sauce too sweet for your taste, you can easily adjust it! Try adding a bit more soy sauce or a splash of rice vinegar to balance out the sweetness. Start with a teaspoon, mix it in, and taste—add more as needed until it’s perfect for your palate.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This Mongolian Chicken recipe is quite versatile! For a vegetarian version, you can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, following the same steps in the cooking process. If anyone in your family has allergies, make sure to check for soy allergies due to the soy sauce, and consider low-sodium soy sauce for those watching their sodium intake.

Can I make this dish spicy?
The more the merrier when it comes to spice! You can boost the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or tossing in fresh chili slices during the sauce-making phase. Start small, taste as you go, and build up to your desired level of heat for the perfect fiery kick in your Mongolian Chicken!