20 Minutes Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner, this 20 Minutes Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken is the perfect dish for you. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, savory soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. In just 20 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this Mongolian Chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Chicken Recipe

This 20 Minutes Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken is everything you need for a fast, weeknight meal. The best part? It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with flavor. The savory sauce with hints of sweetness coats the chicken perfectly, creating a deliciously sticky glaze. Plus, it only takes 20 minutes to cook, so you can enjoy a homemade dinner even on the busiest of nights. It’s a great choice for families, and it’s customizable for your preferred level of sweetness or spice.

Ingredients for Mongolian Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:

• Chicken breast: Tender and juicy, the chicken provides the perfect base for the savory-sweet sauce.
• Soy sauce: Adds saltiness and depth to the dish, giving it that authentic Mongolian flavor.
• Brown sugar: Brings the sweet element that balances the savory soy sauce perfectly.
• Garlic: Aromatic and savory, garlic adds a rich depth to the sauce.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger contributes a spicy kick, enhancing the flavor profile.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and creates that glossy, sticky texture.
• Green onions: Used as a garnish, they add freshness and a bit of crunch to the dish.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for substitutions or adjustments, consider these alternatives:

• Chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts: For a richer, juicier texture.
• Coconut aminos instead of soy sauce: A great gluten-free option.
• Maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar: For a different sweetness and a touch of natural flavor.
• Ground ginger instead of fresh ginger: If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger can work as well.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Cook the chicken pieces until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, and a bit of water. Stir well to combine.
4. Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Pour this into the sauce, stirring constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine the chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the thickened sauce until well coated. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top and serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Mongolian Chicken

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken to ensure it gets crispy and golden. Cook in batches if necessary.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or chili paste to the sauce for some heat.
• Let the sauce simmer long enough to thicken properly. This will give it that glossy, sticky texture that’s so characteristic of Mongolian chicken.
• If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Mongolian chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Steamed jasmine rice: The fluffy rice soaks up the flavorful sauce, creating the perfect bite.
• Vegetables: Serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a balanced meal.
• Noodles: Toss this Mongolian chicken with cooked noodles for a satisfying one-dish meal.

Variations:

• Gluten-Free Mongolian Chicken: Simply swap soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative like tamari or coconut aminos.
• Sweet and Spicy Mongolian Chicken: Add more chili paste or fresh chili peppers to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a plant-based alternative.

Health Benefits and Seasonal Appeal

This 20 Minutes Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken is not just delicious, but also packs a nutritional punch. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while ginger and garlic offer anti-inflammatory properties. The dish is also customizable to fit your dietary needs, whether you’re looking for a gluten-free or vegetarian option.

The recipe’s sweet-savory flavor makes it an excellent dish to serve during all seasons, but it is particularly comforting during colder months. The warmth of the ginger and the savory sauce will make it a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.

Conclusion

In just 20 minutes, you can prepare this delicious 20 Minutes Sweet Savory Mongolian Chicken, a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors that will make any meal feel special. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a quick dish for guests, this recipe promises to deliver. It’s simple, quick, and packed with all the right flavors, making it a go-to favorite. With the option to customize the sweetness, spice, or even swap ingredients for dietary preferences, this dish is as flexible as it is delicious. Enjoy this easy, flavorful meal with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete and satisfying dish!

FAQ

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