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Savory Mongolian Chicken Recipe Easy Sticky Sweet Glaze Dinner Idea

Savory Mongolian Chicken - featured image

A quick and easy Mongolian chicken recipe featuring tender chicken thighs coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties, this dish delivers nostalgic comfort with a modern twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (can substitute peanut or canola oil)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Place chicken in a large bowl and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated. Set aside for 5 minutes.
  2. Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 1-2 minutes).
  3. Working in batches, fry the chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  4. Remove excess oil from the pan, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Turn heat to medium and add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
  5. Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring to dissolve sugar completely. Let simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky glaze.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing well to coat every piece in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to marry flavors and reheat the chicken.
  7. Sprinkle with sliced green onions, red pepper flakes if using, and toasted sesame seeds before serving. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of hoisin sauce or a teaspoon of toasted sesame oil to the sauce. Fry chicken in batches to avoid steaming and ensure crispiness. Use tamari and arrowroot powder for gluten-free version. Reduce brown sugar or substitute with coconut sugar for lower sugar option.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mongolian chicken, sticky glaze, sweet and savory, easy dinner, quick recipe, chicken thighs, family meal