Mongolian chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a savory sauce, making it a perfect choice for any meal. This recipe is simple and quick, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. The combination of flavors will tantalize your taste buds, making this a family favorite. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 320 calories, 12g fat, 34g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 5g sugar. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce and brown sugar until combined.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 1 minute.
5. Add chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken.
7. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
9. Stir in chopped green onions, cooking for 2 more minutes.
10. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with tofu or seitan for a vegetarian option. Additionally, coconut sugar can be used instead of brown sugar for a healthier alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Mongolian chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles. A side of crispy spring rolls or a fresh salad can also complement the dish nicely.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through. The dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just ensure it is in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it tough.
- Not allowing the sauce to thicken will lead to a watery dish.
- Using low-quality soy sauce can affect the flavor.
- Skipping the ginger may result in a flat taste.
- Not adjusting the spice level to your preference can make it too bland or too hot.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the chicken for an hour for deeper flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
- Adjust the sugar to balance the sauce according to your taste.
- For extra crunch, add some cashews or peanuts.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking and better texture.
What can I use as a substitute for soy sauce?
You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
Is Mongolian chicken spicy?
The spice level depends on the amount of crushed red pepper you use; feel free to adjust it to suit your preference.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, but it’s best to cook it fresh for the best texture.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can reduce the sugar content and serve it with more vegetables or use chicken breast for a leaner protein option.
Conclusion
Mongolian chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to make at home. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of Asian cuisine right in your kitchen!
Mongolian Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger grated
- 1/2 cup green onions chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce and brown sugar until combined.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 1 minute.
- Add chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken.
- Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Stir in chopped green onions, cooking for 2 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.