Mongolian Chicken: The Ultimate Mongolian Chicken Recipe
Introduction to Mongolian Chicken
Mongolian Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce that is sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. Let’s dive into the flavors and experiences that make this dish a family favorite!
A Personal Story Behind My Mongolian Chicken Journey
Growing up, I remember my family often gathering around the table to share meals that were not only nourishing but also filled with laughter and love. Mongolian Chicken was a staple in our household, and it always reminded me of my mother’s warm kitchen, where the aromas of garlic and ginger filled the air. This dish holds a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to share it with you!
What Makes This Mongolian Chicken Recipe Special?
What sets this Mongolian Chicken recipe apart is its balance of flavors and textures. The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a delectable glaze that clings to the chicken, while the fresh green onions add a crunchy freshness. The quick cooking method ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender, making it a perfect option for busy nights when you want something hearty yet hassle-free.
The Full Mongolian Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds thinly sliced chicken breast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup + 2 teaspoons cornstarch, divided
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
Instructions
- In a ziplock bag, combine the chicken, salt, pepper, and 1/4 cup of cornstarch. Shake well to coat the chicken evenly. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
- Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through until cooked through. Remove the chicken and place it on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, dark soy sauce, honey, chicken broth, sesame oil, and the remaining 2 teaspoons of cornstarch to make the sauce. This mixture will create a thick glaze for the chicken.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
- Add the cooked chicken and green onions to the pan. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together to coat evenly and remove from heat.
- Enjoy this flavorful honey garlic chicken stir-fry with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Mongolian Chicken
Mongolian Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. For an extra touch, consider serving it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal. You can also customize the recipe by adding in other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mongolian Chicken
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted to use beef, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can reduce the amount of honey or use a sugar substitute, and add more vegetables to increase the fiber content.
Can I make Mongolian Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just combine and cook when you’re ready to eat!
What should I serve with Mongolian Chicken?
Steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles are all great options. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Mongolian Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds thinly sliced chicken breast
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 0.25 cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1.33 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 0.25 cup honey
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, chopped
- 0.5 cup green onions, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
Instructions
- In a ziplock bag, combine the chicken, salt, pepper, and 1/4 cup of cornstarch. Shake well to coat the chicken evenly. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
- Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through until cooked through. Remove the chicken and place it on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, dark soy sauce, honey, chicken broth, sesame oil, and the remaining 2 teaspoons of cornstarch to make the sauce. This mixture will create a thick glaze for the chicken.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
- Add the cooked chicken and green onions to the pan. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together to coat evenly and remove from heat.
- Enjoy this flavorful honey garlic chicken stir-fry with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!