Mongolian Chicken is a dish that has taken many kitchens by storm. This savory recipe brings together tender chicken pieces enveloped in a luscious sauce, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. If you’re looking to explore Asian-inspired meals that are not only easy to prepare but also delightful to the palate, this Mongolian Chicken recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the zest of ginger and garlic with the sweetness of hoisin sauce, making it a family favorite.
Why We Love This Mongolian Chicken Recipe
What’s not to love about Mongolian Chicken? This delightful dish is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly simple to make. The chicken cooks quickly, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of hoisin sauce and soy sauce adds a delightful sweetness and depth that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
Moreover, this recipe is highly versatile. Whether you’re an adventurous eater or prefer mild flavors, you can adjust the spice and sweetness levels to suit your tastes. Plus, it takes minimal effort to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal with family or friends.
Mongolian Chicken can also be served in various ways, from a vibrant platter with steamed rice to a crunchy side of vegetables, making it a versatile choice that can accommodate numerous dietary preferences.
Ingredients about Mongolian Chicken
To create your own scrumptious Mongolian Chicken, gather the following ingredients. Each element plays an essential role in building the delicious flavor profile that makes this dish so irresistible.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Green onions, for garnish
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be ready to whip together a hearty meal that excites your taste buds and warms your heart.
How to Make Mongolian Chicken Directions
Making Mongolian Chicken at home is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Here’s how you can create this delicious dish step-by-step.
- Prepare the Sauce: Start by taking a medium-sized bowl. In it, mix together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced ginger, and minced garlic. This mixture will serve as your savory sauce and a burst of flavor for the chicken.
- Dredge the Chicken: In another bowl, toss the diced chicken breast in cornstarch until each piece is well-coated. The cornstarch helps give the chicken a crispy texture when cooked, enhancing the overall eating experience.
- Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; this will ensure a nice sear.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the coated chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Allow it to cook without stirring for about 3-4 minutes until it turns golden brown. Stir occasionally for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
- Add the Sauce: Once the chicken is ready, pour the prepared sauce mixture over the golden chicken. Stir well to ensure that every piece is coated in the sweet and savory goodness. Let this cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and stick to the chicken.
- Serve and Garnish: Once everything is cooked to perfection, transfer the Mongolian Chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot over rice or alongside steamed vegetables.
If you prefer a healthier cooking method, consider air frying the chicken. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F and cook the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method results in a delightful crunch while reducing the amount of oil used.
How to Serve Mongolian Chicken
Mongolian Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. You can present this dish over a bed of fluffy steamed rice, allowing the grains to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a light meal, consider pairing it with a side of sautéed vegetables, which adds color and nutrition to your plate.
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, serve it in lettuce wraps, which adds a refreshing crunch and allows each person to assemble their own bite. You could also pair it with noodles for a heartier meal – the chewy texture complements the saucy chicken beautifully.
Don’t forget to sprinkle some additional green onions on top when serving for an extra touch of freshness and garnish. Whether it’s a quiet dinner at home or a gathering with friends, Mongolian Chicken is sure to impress everyone with its delightful flavors and beautiful presentation.
Expert Tips: Mongolian Chicken
To elevate your Mongolian Chicken experience, here are some expert tips to ensure perfect results every time you whip up this dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh ginger and garlic. Fresh ingredients provide a more vibrant flavor compared to their jarred counterparts.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This can lead to steaming rather than searing, impacting the crispiness.
- Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of hoisin and soy sauce to suit your taste. If you prefer it sweeter, add more hoisin; for saltiness, add extra soy sauce.
- Garnish Generously: Use plenty of chopped green onions as a garnish. They add not only flavor but also a beautiful color contrast to the dish.
- Make it Ahead: Mongolian Chicken can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep. Just ensure you store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture.
How to Store Mongolian Chicken
If you have leftover Mongolian Chicken, proper storage is vital to maintain its taste and texture. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 3 days. If you anticipate not eating it within that period, consider freezing it. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Mongolian Chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. If reheating from frozen, do so gently on the stovetop to ensure it warms evenly without drying out.
Variation of Mongolian Chicken
While the traditional Mongolian Chicken recipe is delicious on its own, there are numerous ways to put a unique spin on this dish to cater to your tastes or dietary preferences.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Ensure to press and drain the tofu well before marinating so you achieve a nice crisp texture.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporating vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can enhance the dish’s nutrition and color. Cook them alongside the chicken until they are tender but still crisp.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce to the cooking sauce for a spicy twist.
- Nutty Flavor: For a nutty flavor profile, toss in some toasted sesame seeds before serving. They add a beautiful crunch that complements the dish’s soft textures.
- Different Proteins: Consider using shrimp or beef in place of chicken for a completely different flair. Each alternative will bring a unique taste and texture that can be delicious in its own right.
FAQ: Mongolian Chicken
What is Mongolian Chicken?
Mongolian Chicken is a savory dish that features diced chicken breast cooked with a flavorful mixture of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. It is known for its delightful taste and crispy texture.
How can I make Mongolian Chicken spicier?
To spice things up, add crushed red pepper flakes or chili sauce to the sauce mixture. Start with a small amount and increase to your liking for the perfect heat.
Can I make Mongolian Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Mongolian Chicken ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I serve with Mongolian Chicken?
Mongolian Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or sautéed vegetables. It can also be served in lettuce wraps for a fun and delicious twist.
Is Mongolian Chicken gluten-free?
To make Mongolian Chicken gluten-free, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure all other ingredients are free from gluten.
Mongolian Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced Use fresh for better flavor
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced Use fresh for better flavor
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch Helps give a crispy texture
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil For cooking
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced ginger, and minced garlic to create the sauce.
- In another bowl, toss the diced chicken breast in cornstarch until well-coated.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes without stirring until golden brown.
- Stir occasionally for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken and stir well to coat.
- Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Serving
- Transfer the Mongolian Chicken to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot over rice or alongside steamed vegetables.
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