Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken

Crispy fried chicken tossed in a sticky, sweet, savory sauce. This Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken is not just better-than-takeout; it’s made with simple ingredients and can be ready in 25 minutes or less! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can whip this up in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and ginger creates a deliciously rich flavor that stands out.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, noodles, or as a filling for wraps to suit your family’s preferences.
• Better than Takeout: Enjoy restaurant-quality Mongolian chicken at home without the extra cost and wait time.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild spice and sweet sauce, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools and equipment you’ll need. Having the right tools will streamline your process and enhance your enjoyment while cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Wok or large frying pan
• Tongs
• Wire rack or paper towels
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients and tossing chicken evenly with cornstarch.
• Wok or large frying pan: Provides ample space for frying the chicken without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping the chicken during frying to achieve that golden brown color without losing pieces.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
• ¼ cup cornstarch (or as needed) (or sub with potato starch)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)

For the Sauce

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 red chili pepper (sliced) (optional)
• 5 slices ginger
• 4 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 2 tbsp regular soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (or sub with potato starch)
• ½ cup water

Garnish

• 1 green onion (finely chopped)
• 1 red chili pepper (sliced)

How to Make Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry

In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with ½ cup of water until well combined. Set aside this mixture; it will serve as your thickening agent later.

Step 2: Dice the Chicken

Dice the chicken thighs into approximately 1.5-inch pieces. Aim for about 4-6 pieces per thigh. Remember not to pat the chicken dry since some moisture is required for coating.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, add the diced chicken thighs along with ¼ cup of cornstarch. Use tongs to toss until every piece is well-coated. If you notice some starch falling off, feel free to add more cornstarch as needed.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in small batches until golden brown on both sides—this should take about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack or plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium and add ginger, garlic, and red chili into the pan. Fry these ingredients together for about 10 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

Add hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil to the pan. Mix well before incorporating the cornstarch slurry you prepared earlier. Stir until combined and let it simmer briefly to thicken.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Toss in your fried chicken pieces into the thickened sauce mixture. Ensure everything is well-coated before removing from heat. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with sliced red chili and green onions if desired. Enjoy your delicious Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken

Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Over Noodles

• Serve the chicken over cooked lo mein or rice noodles for a hearty twist.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Add a side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, for extra nutrition.

As a Wrap

• Use lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with chicken and additional toppings like cucumber and carrots.

On a Bed of Salad

• Serve the chicken over a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with sesame dressing for a refreshing meal.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Top with finely chopped green onions for added flavor and color.

How to Perfect Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Control Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get that crispy texture without absorbing too much oil.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain high heat and ensure even cooking.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a little more water; if too thin, allow it to simmer longer.
• Experiment with Spice: For extra heat, include more chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce in the mix.
• Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest briefly after frying for optimal crispiness before adding it to the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken

Pairing your Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice: A classic choice that adds flavor and texture; mix in peas and carrots for color.
2. Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy appetizers bring an exciting contrast to the saucy chicken.
3. Garlic Snow Peas: Lightly sautéed snow peas provide crunch and freshness alongside the rich flavors of the chicken.
4. Coconut Rice: The sweetness of coconut rice balances out the savory notes of the dish beautifully.
5. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing gives a nice crunch and tangy flavor.
6. Quinoa Salad: A wholesome option that can be tossed with edamame, cucumbers, and soy dressing for an Asian flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a delicious dish.

• Not coating the chicken properly: Ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated in cornstarch. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
• Using too much oil: While frying, use just enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Excess oil can make your chicken greasy instead of crispy.
• Overcooking the chicken: Fry the chicken until it’s golden brown, but avoid overcooking it. This keeps the meat tender and juicy.
• Skipping the cornstarch slurry: The slurry helps thicken the sauce. Without it, your sauce may be too watery and not cling to the chicken properly.
• Neglecting garnishes: Adding red chili and green onions at the end enhances flavor and presentation. Don’t skip this step for a more appealing dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the chicken cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate into meal-sized portions for convenience.

Reheating Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps retain crispiness.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Use a microwave-safe dish with a lid if possible.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of water or broth. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken?

Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet and savory sauce made from hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and ginger.

How long does it take to make Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken?

This recipe can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Can I air fry the chicken?

Yes! To air fry, coat the chicken in cornstarch and cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

What can I serve with Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Is Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken spicy?

The dish can be spicy if you include chili peppers; however, you can omit them for a milder flavor.

Final Thoughts

Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness of the sauce. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful homemade meal that’s sure to impress!