Mongolian Chicken

Mongolian Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen. This popular recipe features crispy chicken coated in a sweet and savory glaze, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this restaurant favorite that pairs beautifully with plain rice or noodles. Its unique blend of ingredients makes it a standout choice for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Prepare this delicious dish in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates an irresistible flavor profile that will leave you craving more.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer dried chilies to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a perfect family meal option.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, toss it with noodles, or serve it alongside steamed vegetables.

Tools and Preparation

To make Mongolian Chicken successfully, having the right tools in your kitchen is essential. These tools will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Wok or frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cooking spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Wok or frying pan: Ideal for even heat distribution, ensuring perfectly cooked chicken and vegetables.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and combining sauces effectively.
• Whisk: Helps dissolve sugar and cornstarch quickly for a smooth sauce.
• Cooking spoon or spatula: Perfect for tossing the chicken and ensuring even coating with the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 300 grams Boneless chicken (Skinless boneless chicken breast/thigh)
• 2 tsp Soy sauce (Regular soy sauce or light soy sauce)
• 2 tsp Shao xing grape juice (Cooking rice grape juice or rice vinegar)
• 2 tsp Cooking oil (Vegetable oil, sunflower, peanut, or sesame oil)
• 4 tbsp Cornstarch (Or potato starch)

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp Soy sauce (Regular soy sauce or light soy sauce)
• 2 tbsp Brown sugar (Or regular white sugar or honey)
• ¼ cup Chicken stock (Or water or chicken broth)
• ½ tsp Corn starch (or potato starch)

For the Stir-Fry

• ½ Onion (Cut thin slices)
• 6-8 Dried chiles (Deseeded whole dried chillies)
• 2 cloves Garlic (Minced or cut thin slices)
• 2 tsp Ginger (Minced or cut thin strips)
• 2-3 Spring onions (Cut 2 pieces)
• 1 Chilli pepper (Or bell pepper, cut thin slices (optional))
• Oil for frying (Sunflower, vegetable, peanut oil, etc.)

How to Make Mongolian Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a bowl, combine the boneless chicken pieces with soy sauce, Shao Xing grape juice, cornstarch, and vegetable oil. Mix everything well until the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, brown sugar, chicken stock, and half a teaspoon of cornstarch until fully dissolved. Set this mixture aside as well.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Fill a frying pan with enough cooking oil to cover about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil until it’s approximately 350°F/180°C. Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry them for about 5–6 minutes until they turn crispy golden brown. Make sure to flip them occasionally for even cooking. Once done, remove from oil and set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Aromatics

In a wok over medium heat, drizzle in 1–2 tablespoons of oil. Add dried chilies and sliced onions; sauté them for a few seconds until fragrant. Then add minced garlic and ginger; cook briefly until aromatic.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour in your prepared Mongolian sauce into the wok. Stir well until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy. Add in your fried chicken pieces along with fresh chili slices and spring onions.

Step 6: Toss & Serve

Toss everything in the wok gently but thoroughly so that each piece of chicken is well-coated in the flavorful sauce. Turn off the heat and serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles for an amazing meal experience!

How to Serve Mongolian Chicken

Mongolian Chicken is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it on its own or paired with sides, this meal is versatile and satisfying. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Plain Rice

• Steamed White Rice: The classic pairing that soaks up the savory sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative, adding a nutty flavor and more fiber.

With Noodles

• Lo Mein: Soft, stir-fried noodles that complement the rich sauce perfectly.
• Rice Noodles: Gluten-free option that absorbs flavors well.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use fresh lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken for a crunchy, low-carb option.
• Tortilla Wraps: Soft tortillas can be filled with Mongolian Chicken for a fusion twist.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh and vibrant touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and nuttiness.

How to Perfect Mongolian Chicken

To make your Mongolian Chicken truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will provide more intense flavors compared to dried versions.
• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors better.
• Ensure High Heat When Frying: This helps achieve the crispy texture you want without overcooking the chicken.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the number of dried chilies based on your heat preference; less for milder, more for spicy.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal taste and texture, serve Mongolian Chicken right after cooking while it’s hot and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Mongolian Chicken

Mongolian Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Vegetables: A mix of broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers adds color and nutrients.
2. Fried Rice: Flavored rice with peas, carrots, and eggs makes for a hearty side.
3. Egg Drop Soup: A light soup that complements the richness of Mongolian Chicken perfectly.
4. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with veggies add crunch and contrast to the meal.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with sliced cucumbers dressed in a light vinaigrette balances the dish’s bold flavors.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter can soak up any extra sauce left on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Mongolian Chicken, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can result in bland flavors. Always allow time for the chicken to soak up the marinade for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many chicken pieces in the frying pan can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Fry in batches to ensure each piece gets crispy.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old chicken can compromise the dish. Always opt for fresh ingredients for optimal flavor and quality.
• Incorrect Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, it won’t cling well to the chicken. Ensure you whisk cornstarch thoroughly with liquid until dissolved before adding it to the pan.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Overcooking or undercooking the chicken can affect its texture. Use a timer and check for doneness regularly during frying.
• Serving Without Garnish: Skipping garnishes like spring onions can make your dish look less appealing. Always add fresh herbs or vegetables as a finishing touch.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mongolian Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing it to maintain texture.

Freezing Mongolian Chicken

• Place cooled Mongolian Chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Mongolian Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mongolian Chicken?

Mongolian Chicken is a popular American-Chinese dish featuring crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s known for its rich flavors and quick preparation time.

Can I customize my Mongolian Chicken?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, or adjust spice levels by using more or fewer dried chiles according to your taste preferences.

How do I make Mongolian Chicken gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What should I serve with Mongolian Chicken?

Mongolian Chicken pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it with a side salad for freshness.

Is Mongolian Chicken spicy?

The level of spiciness can vary based on your preference. Adjust the number of dried chiles used in the recipe to control how spicy you want your dish.

Conclusion

Mongolian Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with various vegetables and spice levels. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Try making it at home and enjoy its irresistible flavors!

---