Mongolian chicken, a Chinese-inspired American dish, has crispy fried chicken smothered in a rich, savory sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and spice. This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes and always impresses with its delightful crunch and vibrant flavors.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a quick and delicious dish to their weeknight dinner rotation. Great for a casual gathering or a cozy family meal, you can easily make it ahead and store leftovers for quick reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The chicken comes out perfectly crispy, providing a satisfying crunch in every bite.
- A quick prep and cooking time means you can enjoy this meal in about 30 minutes.
- The unique sauce blends sweetness and savory notes, enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
- It’s an easy dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
What You’ll Need
Gather the ingredients for a delightful experience:
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ cup vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Note: You can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken breast: thighs for more flavor
- Soy sauce: tamari for gluten-free
- Honey: maple syrup for a vegan option
- Cornstarch: arrowroot powder for thickening
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps for perfect Mongolian chicken.
1. Prepare chicken
Coat each piece of chicken with flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
2. Fry chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Make the sauce
In a separate saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to simmer.
4. Thicken the sauce
Add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine chicken and sauce
Toss the fried chicken in the thickened sauce until evenly coated. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
How to Store It
Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, the chicken loses crispiness.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes or pan-fry until warmed through.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure oil is hot enough before frying for maximum crispiness.
- Use a thermometer to check chicken doneness for perfect results.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying to maintain even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice for a complete meal.
- Pair with stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition.
- Enjoy with a side of egg rolls for a festive touch.
