Easy Mongolian Chicken

Name: Easy Mongolian Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 2 green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 cup water; 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Easy Mongolian Chicken is a quick and delicious dish that combines tender chicken with a savory and slightly sweet sauce, perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:40:53.247Z

This Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe is a family favorite that brings restaurant-style flavors right to your kitchen.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Savory and sweet sauce that tantalizes your taste buds
Versatile dish that pairs well with rice or noodles

      

A Taste of Mongolia at Home

Mongolian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and rich ingredients, and this Easy Mongolian Chicken brings that essence right to your dining table. The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and aromatic sesame oil creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements tender chicken. You don't need to travel far to enjoy this delightful dish; with just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate a taste of Mongolia in your own kitchen.

The key to this dish lies in the balance of flavors. While the soy sauce provides a salty depth, the brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that elevates the overall taste. This harmonious blend makes Easy Mongolian Chicken not only delicious but also appealing to a wide range of palates, making it a favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Perfect Pairings

One of the best aspects of Easy Mongolian Chicken is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with various side dishes, allowing you to customize your meal based on your preferences. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice to absorb the savory sauce or toss it with noodles for a heartier option. You can even add steamed vegetables on the side for a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

If you're looking to add a fresh element to your dinner, consider a simple cucumber salad or a side of stir-fried bok choy. These vibrant accompaniments not only enhance the meal visually but also add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the chicken dish.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

For those who love meal prepping, Easy Mongolian Chicken is an excellent choice. You can cook a larger batch and store it for later use. Simply place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it an ideal option for busy weekdays or quick lunches.

To keep the dish fresh, consider storing the chicken and sauce separately from your rice or noodles until you're ready to serve. This helps maintain the texture of each component and ensures that your meal remains delightful every time you enjoy it.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
2 green onions, chopped

For the Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon sesame oil

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting to cook!

Steps to Prepare

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water. Pour the mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer.

Combine and Finish

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in green onions before serving.

Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative, offering a richer flavor and juiciness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I substitute for soy sauce? If you're looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is an excellent substitute for soy sauce. Coconut aminos is another alternative that offers a similar taste with a slightly sweeter profile.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the sauce by adding your favorite spices or heat. A dash of chili flakes or a splash of sriracha can give the dish an exciting kick. You can also incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas directly into the skillet for added texture and nutrition.

If you're in the mood for something different, try swapping out the protein for tofu or shrimp. Both options will absorb the delicious sauce beautifully and provide a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best when fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

→ What can I serve with Mongolian Chicken?

This dish goes well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.