Description:
This Easy 30-min. Mongolian Chicken recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to enjoy the classic Asian dish at home. Tender pieces of chicken are stir-fried with a savory-sweet sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, creating a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Background and Origin:
Mongolian Chicken is a popular dish inspired by Mongolian cuisine, although its origins are not directly linked to Mongolia. The dish is believed to have been created in Taiwan or the United States, where it gained popularity in Chinese-American restaurants. While the name may suggest a connection to Mongolian cuisine, the dish is more closely associated with Chinese stir-fry cooking techniques and flavors.
Health Concerns:
While Mongolian Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish, it’s important to be mindful of certain health concerns, particularly related to sodium and sugar content. Many restaurant versions of Mongolian Chicken may contain high amounts of sodium from soy sauce and other seasonings, as well as added sugars in the sauce. When preparing Mongolian Chicken at home, consider using reduced-sodium soy sauce and minimizing the amount of added sugar to make it a healthier option. Additionally, incorporating plenty of vegetables into the dish can boost its nutritional value and provide added vitamins and minerals. Enjoying Mongolian Chicken in moderation as part of a balanced diet can help mitigate these health concerns while still indulging in its delicious flavors.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast, thinly sliced | 1 lb (about 450 g) |
| Cornstarch | 1/4 cup |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Ginger, grated | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Green onions, chopped (for garnish) | 2 |
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced chicken breast with cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the coated chicken slices to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and brown sugar until sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the soy sauce mixture over the cooked chicken in the skillet and stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken nicely.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve the Mongolian chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Storage Instructions:
Leftover Mongolian Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through before serving.
Advantages of Mongolian Chicken:
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Mongolian Chicken is a simple and straightforward dish to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a fast meal option.
- Versatile Ingredients: This dish can be customized with a variety of ingredients such as chicken, vegetables, and sauces, allowing for endless flavor variations to suit your taste preferences.
- Delicious Flavor Profile: Mongolian Chicken is known for its savory and slightly sweet taste, thanks to the combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger in the sauce.
- Balanced Meal Option: By adding vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and broccoli to the dish, you can easily incorporate more nutrients into your meal for a well-rounded and satisfying dish.
- Family-Friendly: Mongolian Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings.
- Minimal Cleanup: With only one pan required for cooking, cleanup is quick and hassle-free, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
- Budget-Friendly: Mongolian Chicken can be made using affordable ingredients that are readily available in most grocery stores, making it a budget-friendly meal option.
- Customizable Spice Level: You can adjust the level of spiciness in Mongolian Chicken by adding more or less chili flakes or hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: This dish can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for future meals, making it ideal for meal prep and planning.
- Authentic Asian-Inspired Dish: While Mongolian Chicken may not have direct ties to Mongolian cuisine, it is inspired by Asian flavors and cooking techniques, offering a taste of the East in every bite.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 15g
Additional Information:
- For a healthier option, use lean chicken breast and reduce the amount of oil and sugar in the sauce.
- Substitute low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
- Serve Mongolian Chicken with steamed brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables such as carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
FAQs:Â
- Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, pork, shrimp, tofu, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Can I make Mongolian Chicken ahead of time?
- While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken in advance to save time.
- Is Mongolian Chicken spicy?
- The level of spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili flakes or hot sauce used in the recipe.
- Can I make Mongolian Chicken gluten-free?
- Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make the dish gluten-free.
- What vegetables can I add to Mongolian Chicken?
- Common vegetables include bell peppers, onions, carrots, broccoli, and snow peas, but you can use any vegetables you prefer.
- Can I freeze Mongolian Chicken?
- Yes, you can freeze cooked Mongolian Chicken in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Is Mongolian Chicken healthy?
- Mongolian Chicken can be part of a healthy diet when made with lean protein and plenty of vegetables. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and limit added sugars for a healthier option.
Conclusion:Â
In conclusion, Mongolian Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. With its quick and easy preparation, delicious combination of savory and sweet flavors, and flexibility to accommodate different dietary needs, Mongolian Chicken is a popular choice for busy weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, Mongolian Chicken is sure to satisfy cravings and impress with its delightful taste and aroma. So why not give it a try and enjoy a taste of Asian-inspired cuisine right in your own kitchen!