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 chicken breast, sliced into thin strips; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup water; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A quick and delicious take on a classic dish, this Easy Mongolian Chicken is perfect for weeknight dinners.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:36:38.820Z

This Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe brings the flavors of the East to your kitchen in a matter of minutes. Tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick to prepare and cook, perfect for busy weeknights
Flavorful sauce with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice
Versatile dish that pairs well with rice or noodles

      

A Weeknight Winner

Easy Mongolian Chicken is the ultimate weeknight meal that can be on your table in under 30 minutes. This recipe combines the convenience of quick cooking with the delight of bold flavors, making it a go-to choice for busy families. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform everyday chicken into an exotic dish that feels special.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward steps. The chicken is cooked quickly in a hot skillet, ensuring it remains juicy and tender. Meanwhile, the sauce is a harmonious blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatic garlic and ginger, delivering a sweet and savory taste that complements the chicken perfectly.

Customize Your Dish

One of the great aspects of Easy Mongolian Chicken is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite vegetables.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. While rice and noodles are classic choices, you can also serve it over quinoa or even a bed of sautéed greens for a healthier twist. The options are endless, allowing you to create a meal that is both satisfying and tailored to your tastes.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Easy Mongolian Chicken is not just a quick meal; it's also ideal for meal prepping. You can prepare a larger batch over the weekend and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors of the sauce actually improve after sitting, making it a delicious option to reheat.

Simply store the chicken and sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and you’ll have a ready-to-go meal that saves time on busy days. Just reheat and serve over fresh rice or noodles for a delightful dish that feels homemade.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy Mongolian Chicken:

For the Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Green onions, for garnish

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Easy Mongolian Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil until well combined.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Mongolian Chicken!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining flavor and texture. Place any remaining Easy Mongolian Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. This will help restore the dish’s original consistency and flavor, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the first.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving Easy Mongolian Chicken with steamed broccoli or snap peas. These vegetables not only add a pop of color to your plate but also provide a nutritious balance to the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce.

You can also top your dish with sesame seeds or additional green onions for an extra layer of flavor and texture. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, try some crushed peanuts or cashews sprinkled on top before serving. These additions not only enhance the dish visually but also elevate the overall taste experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute to ensure the recipe remains gluten-free without sacrificing flavor. You can also check that your other ingredients, like brown sugar, are gluten-free.

How can I make the sauce thicker? If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can increase the amount of cornstarch or let the sauce simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency. Just remember to add it gradually and whisk continuously to avoid clumps.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, tofu, or shrimp, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Just combine and cook when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Mongolian Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables.