Easy Mongolian Chicken

Name: Easy Mongolian Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup water; Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Easy Mongolian Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2025-12-21T07:50:51.692Z

This Easy Mongolian Chicken recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a delicious glaze that coats the chicken perfectly.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory flavor profile that's irresistible
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile dish that pairs well with rice or noodles

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

Easy Mongolian Chicken is a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking time, this dish allows you to whip up a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. It's simple enough for beginner cooks while still being impressive enough to serve to guests.

The balance of sweet and savory flavors in this dish makes it an instant hit. The brown sugar adds a delightful sweetness that complements the saltiness of the soy sauce perfectly. This harmony of flavors creates a comforting dish that is sure to warm your heart, making it a family favorite.

Versatile Serving Options

One of the best aspects of Easy Mongolian Chicken is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, allowing you to customize your meal based on your preferences. Whether you prefer fluffy white rice, hearty brown rice, or chewy noodles, this dish is a fantastic base that complements a wide range of starches.

You can also elevate the dish by adding steamed vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors and textures to your plate. Feel free to experiment with different combinations and make it your own!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, given how delicious this dish is!), storing them properly is essential for maintaining flavor and freshness. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay good for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze. Simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or you can microwave them in short intervals. Adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce while reheating can help revive the dish's moisture and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

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

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir until smooth.

Combine and Cook

Add the garlic and ginger to the skillet with the chicken, then pour the sauce over the top. Stir to coat the chicken and bring to a simmer. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve

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

Tips for Success

To ensure the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs all the wonderful sauce flavors, it's important to slice the chicken breast into uniform pieces. This will help achieve that perfect golden-brown color and tender texture. Consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce for 30 minutes before cooking for an extra flavor boost.

When thickening the sauce, be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Stirring occasionally will help distribute the heat evenly, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully without sticking to the pan.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a little heat. This will give your Easy Mongolian Chicken an exciting kick that spice lovers will appreciate.

For those who prefer a healthier option, try substituting boneless chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them an excellent choice for this dish. Additionally, you can use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and add more flavor.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas would be great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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