Name: Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken in Just 20 Minutes!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless Chicken (Thighs are best; breasts work too.); ¼ cup Corn Starch (Plus 2 teaspoons for crispiness.); Salt and Pepper (Season to taste.); 3 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Add more if needed for frying.); 1 teaspoon Ginger (Minced for flavor.); 1 teaspoon Garlic (Minced for aroma.); ½ cup Green Onion (Chopped, use both white and green parts.); ½ cup Dark Brown Sugar (For sweetness and color.); ½ cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (Opt for gluten-free if needed.); 1½ teaspoons Toasted Sesame Oil (Adds nutty flavor.); ⅓ cup Water (For the slurry with cornstarch.)

“Do you ever find yourself staring blankly at your pantry, willing it to magically whip up dinner?” I’ve been there too, but that’s when I discovered the magic of Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken. This delightful dish brings the bold, sweet, and savory flavors of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen, ready in just 20 minutes! Not only does this quick dinner impress family and friends, but it’s also customizable—feel free to kick up the heat or add in some colorful veggies. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and embrace weeknight cooking together—are you ready to transform simple ingredients into a tantalizing meal that leaves cravings satisfied?

Why is Mongolian Chicken a must-try?

Quick Dinner: This Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken can be on your table in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Customizable Flavors: Want to spice things up? Simply add red chilies or sriracha for an exciting kick.

Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this dish! Its sweet and savory profile caters to both kids and adults, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Perfect Texture: Enjoy the delightful contrast of a crispy chicken exterior with a luscious, thick sauce that clings perfectly to every bite.

Effortless Cooking: The straightforward preparation means you can put this meal together without any culinary fuss, making it a breeze for any home chef. For more quick ideas, check out my Chicken Etouffee Savory and Stuffed Sweet Potatoes recipes!

Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up this delightful dish with some simple ingredients!

For the Chicken
• Boneless Chicken (1 pound) – Thighs are best for juicy bites; breasts work too!
• Corn Starch (¼ cup + 2 tsp) – Crucial for that signature crispiness on the chicken.
• Salt and Pepper – Season to taste; it enhances the overall flavor perfectly.
• Vegetable Oil (3 tablespoons + more if needed) – Essential for frying until that golden brown color shines!

For the Sauce
• Ginger (1 tsp, minced) – Infuses warmth and a unique depth of flavor.
• Garlic (1 tsp, minced) – Delivers a fragrant aroma that pairs beautifully with the ginger.
• Green Onion (½ cup, chopped) – Adds freshness and a pop of color; use both white and green parts.
• Dark Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the sauce and deepens its color, enhancing the dish.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (½ cup) – The main seasoning; opt for gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
• Toasted Sesame Oil (1½ tsp) – Offers a nutty flavor that rounds out the sauce beautifully.
• Water (⅓ cup) – Used to make a slurry with cornstarch for thickening the sauce.

Feel free to customize your Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken with your favorite veggies or spice it up for an extra kick!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Slurry
In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with ⅓ cup of water, whisking until smooth. Set this mixture aside to thicken the sauce later. This essential step ensures that your Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken has that luscious, clingy texture that brings all the flavors together perfectly.

Step 2: Chicken Prep
Cut your boneless chicken into thin strips, aiming for even sizes to ensure uniform cooking. Place the chicken strips in a zip-lock bag along with ¼ cup of cornstarch, salt, and pepper to taste. Seal the bag and shake it well to coat the chicken evenly, setting the stage for that crispy exterior once fried.

Step 3: Fry Chicken
Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken strips in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the crispy chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Cook Aromatics
In the same pan, add the minced ginger, garlic, and half of the chopped green onion. Sauté the mixture over medium heat for about 20 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. This step will infuse the oil with beautiful flavors, creating a solid base for your Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken sauce.

Step 5: Make Sauce
Pour in the toasted sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, and dark brown sugar, stirring well to combine with the aromatics. After mixing, add the prepared cornstarch slurry to the pan. Allow the sauce to cook for about 30 seconds while stirring continuously until it thickens and becomes glossy, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.

Step 6: Combine
Add the fried chicken strips back into the pan along with the remaining chopped green onion. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in that delicious sauce. Give it a minute to heat through before serving, so every piece of chicken is infused with the sweet and savory goodness.

Step 7: Serve
Serve your Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken hot over a bed of steamed rice or alongside crispy Thai noodles. Embrace the colors and enticing aromas as you present this quick yet impressive meal, ready to satisfy the appetites of your family or friends in no time!

What to Serve with Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken?

Experience a complete, mouthwatering meal by exploring these delightful pairings that complement your chicken perfectly.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice is the perfect canvas for the sweet and savory sauce, soaking up every drop of flavor.
Crispy Thai Noodles: The texture of these noodles adds a satisfying crunch, all while enhancing the overall Asian-inspired theme of your meal.
Stir-Fried Broccoli: A vibrant, nutritious addition that brings a fresh crunch and bright green color, balancing the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully.
Sesame Green Beans: Tender yet crisp, these lightly cooked green beans tossed in sesame oil offer a nutty contrast and elevate the dining experience.
Spring Rolls: Light and filled with crisp veggies, these make for a delightful appetizer, setting a fun, sharing atmosphere.
Mango Salad: A refreshing blend of sweet and tangy, this salad offers a fruity pop that complements the rich, savory chicken perfectly.
Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Elevate your meal with a smooth, slightly sweet chilled sake or a refreshing cup of green tea to cleanse the palate.
Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, indulge in a sweet finish—dip fresh fruits and marshmallows into rich, molten chocolate for a satisfying end to your dinner.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken ahead of time is a smart way to save precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can marinate and coat the chicken strips in cornstarch, then store them in a zip-lock bag in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Additionally, the sauce can be made and refrigerated for 3 days; just mix all the sauce ingredients and store in an airtight container. To maintain the chicken’s crispy texture, avoid frying until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, simply fry the chicken and combine with the pre-made sauce for a quick, delicious dinner that tastes just as fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken

Fridge: Store your cooked Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Remember to label it with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a microwave or stovetop skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring the chicken remains tender.

Avoid Texture Loss: To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick when reheating, stir in a splash of water or broth for that perfect consistency!

Expert Tips for Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken

Perfectly Crispy Chicken: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s too cool, the coating may become soggy instead of crispy.
Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying chicken strips. This not only maintains the oil temperature but ensures even cooking and browning.
Adjust Thickness: If your sauce becomes too thick while cooking, just splash in a bit of water or chicken stock to achieve the desired consistency for your Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken.
Fresh Aromatics: Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor. They add warmth and a unique depth, making your dish irresistible.
Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in some colorful veggies like bell peppers or broccoli to enhance nutrition and add vibrancy to the dish without changing the fundamental flavors.

Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken Variations

There are endless ways to make this scrumptious recipe your own, so let your creativity shine!

Spicy Kick: Add whole dried red chilies or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra punch of flavor. Feel the warmth tingle on your taste buds, adding an exciting twist to the sweetness!
Vibrant Veggies: Toss in colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to amp up the nutrition and visual appeal of your dish. Not only do they add crunch, but they also bring your Mongolian chicken to life!
Chicken Alternative: Swap out chicken for slices of beef or tofu for a delightful twist, creating your very own Mongolian beef or a satisfying vegetarian option. Each variation presents new flavors and textures worth exploring.
Gluten-Free Haven: Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular for a delicious gluten-free version while keeping all the flavors intact. Your meal can cater to everyone without losing its sweet-savory charm!
Crispy Tofu: For a plant-based option, replace chicken with cubed, crispy tofu. Just pan-fry until golden, and you’ll have a satisfying dish that’s just as enjoyable.
Zesty Citrus: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the sauce for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the entire dish. The sweet and tangy contrast will surprise your taste buds!
Sesame Seed Crunch: Top your finished dish with toasted sesame seeds for an added layer of nuttiness and crunch. This small touch delivers big flavor!

Don’t forget to check out my Persian Chicken Savory or Chopped Chicken Bacon recipes for more delicious variations. Get ready to savor the delightful journey of flavors!

Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken, I recommend boneless thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too. Look for pieces that are firm and pink without any dark spots, which can indicate spoilage. Fresh ingredients make all the difference!

How should I store leftover Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. This ensures that the chicken remains moist and flavorful. When you’re ready to eat it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Can I freeze Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. I often label my bags with the date so I know exactly what I’ve got on hand!

What if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out a bit thicker than you like, don’t worry! Just splash in a little water or chicken stock while reheating, stirring to reach your desired consistency. This little trick will keep the sauce from being gloopy!

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, indeed! You can easily make this Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken gluten-free by using a gluten-free soy sauce, which is widely available in most grocery stores. Just be careful with any other sauces or condiments you might add!

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Including colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can enhance both the nutrition and presentation of your meal. Simply toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking until they are tender-crisp for a delightful crunch.