Best Mongolian Chicken Recipe: Sweet, Savory, and Simply Irresistible
If you’re craving a dinner that’s quick, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this Best Mongolian Chicken Recipe is here to save the day. Think tender, juicy chicken coated in a glossy sauce that’s equal parts sweet, savory, and just a touch spicy—pure flavor magic in every bite.
Fun fact: despite its name, Mongolian Chicken isn’t from Mongolia at all. It’s a delicious, American-created dish inspired by Asian flavors. Proof that food doesn’t always need to be historically accurate to be absolutely irresistible!
What makes this recipe special is how easy it is. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. If you love dishes like Sweet and Sour Chicken or Teriyaki Chicken, this one will quickly become part of your regular rotation.
What is Mongolian Chicken?
Mongolian Chicken is all about bold flavor wrapped in simplicity. Bite-sized pieces of chicken are cooked until golden, then tossed in a rich sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. The result? A glossy, sticky coating that clings to every morsel.
Despite its misleading name, this dish is less about geography and more about delivering the ultimate comfort food experience—perfect for bringing the family together around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Chicken
Here’s why you might fall head over heels for this recipe:
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That sauce. It’s sweet, savory, garlicky, and slightly spicy—a perfect balance that coats each piece of chicken beautifully.
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Quick and easy. Dinner on the table in half an hour, without sacrificing flavor.
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Budget-friendly. Skip the takeout bill and enjoy restaurant-style flavor at home.
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Customizable toppings. Sprinkle on fresh scallions, sesame seeds, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
How to Make Mongolian Chicken
Key Ingredients
You’ll need:
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
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½ cup soy sauce
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¼ cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp cornstarch
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2 tbsp vegetable oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
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1 bunch green onions, chopped
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Sesame seeds, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken – In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Add chicken pieces, toss well, and let marinate for 10–15 minutes (or up to 30 for more flavor).
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Heat the Pan – Warm vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Cook the Chicken – Add marinated chicken (keep the marinade) to the hot pan. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
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Add Garlic and Ginger – Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Make the Sauce – Pour in the reserved marinade and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened and glossy.
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Garnish and Serve – Toss in chopped green onions, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Serving Suggestions
Pair Mongolian Chicken with fluffy jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad for contrast. Spring rolls also make a great sidekick, and an iced tea or light lager pairs perfectly with the sweet-salty sauce.
Tips for Perfect Results
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Don’t rush the sear – A hot pan will give the chicken that irresistible golden crust.
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Marinate longer if you can – 30 minutes will deepen the flavor even more.
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Adjust the sweetness – Add a bit more brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
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Thicken if needed – Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the sauce if you want it extra thick.
Storing and Reheating
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 1 month (portion before freezing).
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Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can enjoy a better-than-takeout meal any night of the week. One bite of this Best Mongolian Chicken, and you’ll understand why it’s a household favorite.
