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 thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Discover the delightful flavors of Easy Mongolian Chicken, a quick and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-23T05:33:37.625Z

Easy Mongolian Chicken is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that packs a punch of flavor. With tender chicken coated in a rich sauce and served over rice, it's sure to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
Sweet and savory sauce that tantalizes your taste buds
Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings

      

The Essence of Mongolian Cuisine

Mongolian cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, often reflecting the nomadic lifestyle of its people. Dishes typically feature meat, dairy, and root vegetables, complemented by various spices and seasonings. Easy Mongolian Chicken captures this essence by combining tender chicken with a sweet and savory sauce that elevates the dish to new heights.

Traditionally, Mongolian cooking emphasizes simplicity and freshness, making it an ideal choice for home cooks. With just a few ingredients, you can recreate the vibrant flavors of Mongolia right in your kitchen. This recipe is a perfect introduction to the cuisine, showcasing how accessible and satisfying Mongolian dishes can be.

Quick Meal Solutions

In today's fast-paced world, finding quick meal solutions is essential for busy families. Easy Mongolian Chicken stands out as a dish that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners. The combination of chicken and sauce is not only delicious but also filling, ensuring that your family leaves the table satisfied.

Moreover, this recipe is versatile enough to adapt to your preferences. Whether you choose to serve it over rice, noodles, or even with a side of steamed vegetables, you can create a balanced meal in no time. It’s a great way to enjoy a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Meal prepping is a fantastic way to save time during the week, and Easy Mongolian Chicken is an excellent candidate for this practice. The dish can be cooked in bulk and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it easy to grab and reheat for lunch or dinner. This not only enhances convenience but also helps maintain a healthy diet amidst a busy schedule.

When prepping, consider pairing the chicken with various sides to keep your meals interesting. You can try it with quinoa, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh salad to add variety. With a little creativity, this dish can remain a staple in your weekly meal rotation without ever becoming dull.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the cooking process!

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper until well combined.

Combine and Cook

Pour the sauce over the browned chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken and let it simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Mongolian Chicken!

Tips for the Best Mongolian Chicken

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken in the soy sauce and brown sugar mixture for at least 15-30 minutes before cooking. This allows the chicken to absorb the sweet and savory notes, resulting in an even more delicious dish. Additionally, consider using fresh garlic and ginger for a more vibrant taste.

When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This ensures that the chicken browns properly, creating a nice texture. If you're making a larger batch, cook the chicken in batches to achieve that perfect caramelization.

Serving Suggestions

Easy Mongolian Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, add a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas, which not only add color but also a nutritious crunch.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add some chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. This will give your dish an extra kick, balancing the sweetness with some spice. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh green onions for a burst of flavor and color!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat the chicken gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of this dish again without losing any of its charm.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it will stay good for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as mentioned above for a quick and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but it may require slightly less cooking time.

→ What can I serve with Mongolian Chicken?

It's delicious served over steamed rice, noodles, or even with a side of vegetables.

→ Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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