Introduction to Mongolian Chicken
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re like me, juggling a busy life while craving something delicious can feel impossible. But let me introduce you to the magic of Mongolian Chicken! This dish is a fantastic way to bring the flavors of Asian cuisine right to your dinner table in just 35 minutes. Imagine biting into crispy, flavorful chicken that wraps you in a warm embrace of soy, garlic, and sesame. Trust me, this recipe will become a weeknight favorite that pleases everyone, from picky eaters to the most adventurous taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Chicken
This Mongolian Chicken is your answer to quick, tasty meals that don’t skimp on flavor! In about 35 minutes, you can enjoy a dish that is not only crispy but also rich with savory sauce. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights. Plus, you can customize the spice level to suit your family’s palate, ensuring every bite is delightful and satisfying!
Ingredients for Mongolian Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients can make or break a dish, and trust me, this Mongolian Chicken recipe is no exception! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Skinless, boneless chicken thighs: They’re juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for your crispy coating.
- Cornstarch: This little magic powder is essential for getting that crave-worthy crunch on your chicken. You can substitute it with potato starch if you want.
- Vegetable oil: A neutral oil is best for frying. You can also use oils like canola or sunflower.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a delicious aroma and depth to this dish.
- Red chili peppers: Add a spicy kick to the dish! These are optional, so feel free to skip them for milder flavor.
- Ginger: Fresh ginger slices offer a zingy warmth that complements the savory sauce.
- Hoisin sauce: This sweet and savory sauce provides the signature flavor, giving your chicken that delicious Asian flair.
- Soy sauce: Regular soy sauce enhances the umami richness. Choose low-sodium for a lighter option!
- Brown sugar: It helps balance the flavors with its sweetness. Feel free to use less if you prefer a less sweet dish.
- Sesame oil: Just a drizzle adds a nutty flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
- Green onions: Finely chopped as a garnish, they provide a pop of color and freshness to your plate.
For the exact quantities you’ll need, don’t forget to scroll down to the bottom of the article where you can print this recipe out easily!
How to Make Mongolian Chicken
Step 1: Make the Cornstarch Slurry
Start by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1 cup of water in a small bowl. Stir it until smooth and set this aside. This slurry will help thicken your sauce later, adding that luscious texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Next, take your chicken thighs and dice them into 1.5-inch pieces. Each thigh should yield about 4-6 bites. Don’t pat them dry; the moisture will help the cornstarch cling beautifully!
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced chicken with ½ cup of cornstarch until every piece is coated. This makes the chicken crispy and gives it that delightful texture we all crave!
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Now, it’s time to cook! If you’re using a stovetop, heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches, taking 6-8 minutes for that golden brown perfection. Prefer using an air fryer? Spray the basket and air fry at 400°F for 10-14 minutes, shaking halfway through. Both methods yield juicy, crispy chicken!
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Reduce the pan heat to medium, and toss in sliced ginger, minced garlic, and optional red chili peppers. Sauté everything for about 10 seconds until your kitchen fills with an aromatic delight.
Step 6: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
Add hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil to the sautéed aromatics. Stir it well to combine, then pour in the cornstarch slurry. Mix until everything is smooth, and let it simmer gently to thicken.
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Add your golden chicken back to the pan and toss everything together. Ensure each piece is beautifully coated in that rich sauce. This step is vital for maximum flavor!
Step 8: Serve
Transfer your Mongolian Chicken to a serving dish, and don’t forget to garnish with finely chopped green onions and extra red chili slices if you’d like. It’s time to dig in!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your chicken thighs are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t rush the frying; give each batch space to cook evenly.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili peppers.
- For extra crunch, consider double-coating the chicken with cornstarch.
- Pair it with steamed rice to soak up that delicious sauce!
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl: Perfect for coating chicken, but any bowl will do.
- Frying pan or wok: Essential for crisping the chicken; a large skillet works well too.
- Air fryer: If you prefer a healthier option; an oven can be a suitable alternative.
- Spatula or tongs: For flipping the chicken while cooking.
- Small bowl: Needed for your cornstarch slurry—any small bowl will work!
Variations for Mongolian Chicken
- Vegetable Mongolian Chicken: Swap the chicken for diced tofu or your favorite vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli for a delightful vegetarian option.
- Spicy Mongolian Chicken: Add more red chili peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to crank up the heat, making it perfect for spice lovers!
- Sweet and Sour Version: Mix in pineapple chunks towards the end of cooking for a sweet and tangy twist that complements the hoisin sauce.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your hoisin sauce is also gluten-free for a safe and delicious meal.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Replace brown sugar with a sugar substitute like erythritol to enjoy this dish if you are watching your carbs.
Serving Suggestions for Mongolian Chicken
- Serve with Steamed Rice: Fluffy white or jasmine rice perfectly absorbs the rich sauce.
- Pair with Noodles: Lo mein or rice noodles add a delightful chewiness that complements the crunch.
- Beverage Ideas: Enjoy with a refreshing iced tea, or a light beer to balance flavors.
- Presentation Tip: Serve in a colorful bowl, topped with extra green onions for visual appeal.
FAQs about Mongolian Chicken
What is Mongolian Chicken?
Mongolian Chicken is a delicious dish featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a savory sauce made from hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and spices. It’s inspired by Asian cuisine and is beloved for its rich flavors and quick preparation.
Can I make Mongolian Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately in advance. Just keep both in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them together to bring back that delightful flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?
Yes! One of the best parts about this Mongolian Chicken recipe is that you can adjust the flavors easily. By controlling the spice level and ensuring a crispy texture, it appeals to even the pickiest of eaters at your table.
What can I serve with Mongolian Chicken?
Mongolian Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also add some sautéed veggies or a crisp salad for a refreshing balance.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider using an air fryer instead of frying in oil. You can also use skinless chicken breasts and reduce the amount of brown sugar. There’s plenty of room for personalization in this dish!
Final Thoughts
Creating Mongolian Chicken is like crafting a warm hug in a bowl. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the family together, turning busy weeknights into something special. From the crispy texture to the deliciously silky sauce, each bite whispers comfort and satisfaction. I love watching my family dig in, their faces lighting up with delight at this quick yet flavorful dish. So go ahead, make this Mongolian Chicken your go-to recipe! It embodies love, joy, and ease, and I promise you won’t regret it. Happy cooking, my friends!
Print
Mongolian Chicken: A Deliciously Simple Recipe!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop or Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A deliciously simple recipe for Mongolian Chicken that is crispy, flavorful, and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 2 lb skinless, boneless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (or as needed, or substitute with potato starch)
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 red chili peppers, sliced (optional)
- 10 slices ginger
- 8 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 4 tablespoons regular soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or substitute with potato starch)
- 1 cup water
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (optional garnish)
- 2 red chili peppers, sliced (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Make the cornstarch slurry: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 1 cup water until smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Dice the chicken thighs into 1.5-inch pieces (about 4-6 pieces per thigh). Do not pat the chicken dry, as the moisture helps the cornstarch stick.
- Coat the chicken: In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced chicken with ½ cup cornstarch until evenly coated. If needed, add a little more cornstarch to ensure all pieces are coated well.
- Cook the chicken:
- Stovetop Option: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches for 6-8 minutes until golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain excess oil on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
- Air Fryer Option: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place the coated chicken pieces into the basket in a single layer, leaving space between pieces (do not overlap). Lightly spray the chicken with oil. Air fry at 400°F for 10-14 minutes until crispy and golden, shaking halfway through for even cooking.
- Make the sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same pan, add the ginger, garlic, and red chili pepper (optional). Sauté for about 10 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine the sauce ingredients: Add the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Stir well. Before adding the cornstarch slurry, give it a quick stir to recombine, then pour it into the pan. Mix until the sauce is smooth and begins to simmer and thicken.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Add the cooked chicken (fried or air-fried) to the sauce and toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with green onions and additional red chili slices if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure to coat the chicken well with cornstarch for extra crispiness.
- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your preference for spiciness.
- The dish can be served with steamed rice or noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
