Name: Mongolian Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (Tender and juicy, chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe.); 3 tbsp tapioca flour (Gives the chicken a crispy exterior.); 1/4 tsp sea salt (Enhances the natural flavors.); 1/4 tsp black pepper (Adds warmth and depth.); 3 tbsp avocado oil (Ideal for high-heat cooking.); 1 large crown broccoli (Provides crunch and vibrant color.); 3 cloves garlic (Infuses the dish with aroma and flavor.); 1 tbsp fresh ginger (Adds zest and brightness.); 2 green onions (Provides freshness.); 1/3 cup coconut aminos (A sweet and salty sauce base.); 3 tbsp water (Helps create sauce consistency.); 2 tbsp cider vinegar (Adds tangy flavor.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something magical about quick meals that feel like they took all day to prepare, and that’s exactly what Mongolian Chicken delivers. I remember the first time I tried it; a friend had whipped it up for a casual dinner, and I was blown away by the explosion of flavors. Tender pieces of chicken, perfectly coated in a rich sauce, paired with fresh broccoli, made for a delightful plate. The bonus? It came together in just thirty minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something delicious and satisfying. This dish has become a staple in my household, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Grater, Skillet, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife

Why This Mongolian Chicken Shines

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best things about Mongolian Chicken is how fast it comes together. In just thirty minutes, you can have a flavorful meal on the table, making it a go-to for busy weekdays. I often find myself pulled in different directions with work and family, so this recipe is a lifesaver!

A Flavor Explosion

The combination of ingredients in Mongolian Chicken creates a beautiful harmony of flavors. The sweet and salty taste of coconut aminos pairs wonderfully with the earthiness of the garlic and ginger, while the fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch. It’s like a party for your taste buds!

Healthy Ingredients

This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with healthy ingredients. The use of boneless, skinless chicken thighs provides protein without excess fat, and the broccoli contributes vital nutrients. Plus, the recipe can easily accommodate various dietary preferences, making it versatile.

Perfect for Leftovers

If you’re anything like me, you love having leftovers for lunch! Mongolian Chicken reheats beautifully, keeping its flavors intact. I often make a double batch to ensure I have enough for the next day. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a home-cooked meal even when time is short.

Kid-Friendly

Many kids adore dishes with a little sweetness, and the flavor profile of Mongolian Chicken is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. It’s a fantastic way to introduce new flavors without overwhelming their taste buds.

What You’ll Need for Mongolian Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for a delicious meal, and in Mongolian Chicken, each one plays a significant role in building flavor. The star of this dish is, of course, the tender chicken, but the supporting cast brings everything to life. Fresh broccoli, aromatic garlic, and zesty ginger all work together to create a satisfying and nourishing dish.

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, chopped: Tender and juicy, chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe, absorbing flavors beautifully.
3 tbsp tapioca flour: This gives the chicken a crispy exterior while maintaining moisture inside.
1/4 tsp sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and depth.
3 tbsp avocado oil: Ideal for high-heat cooking, this oil adds richness to the dish.
1 large crown broccoli, chopped into florets: Provides a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a lovely aroma and flavor.
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated: Adds a zesty kick that brightens the dish.
2 green onions, chopped: Provides freshness and a slight onion flavor.
1/3 cup coconut aminos: A deliciously sweet and salty sauce that serves as the base of the dish.
3 tbsp water: Helps to create the sauce consistency.
2 tbsp cider vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor, balancing the sweetness of the coconut aminos.

Step by Step Guide for Mongolian Chicken

Cooking Mongolian Chicken is as easy as it is delicious. The steps are straightforward, ensuring that you can enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow along, and in no time, you’ll have a plate full of this mouthwatering dish ready to savor!

Chop the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle them with tapioca flour. Doing this directly on the cutting board helps the pieces stick together, which is what you want. Toss the chicken with your hands until it’s well-coated.
Heat the avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. It’s important to get the skillet nice and hot before adding the chicken. Once it reaches that perfect temperature, add the chicken pieces.
Sprinkle the chicken with sea salt and black pepper. Allow it to brown untouched for about three minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a nice golden color.
After the initial browning, stir the chicken well and continue cooking until it’s nearly done—this should take about two more minutes. You want the chicken to be beautifully browned all over.
Now, it’s time to add in the broccoli, garlic, ginger, and green onions. Stir them in so they get coated with all those delicious flavors.
Pour in the coconut aminos, water, and cider vinegar, mixing everything together well. This will form the sauce for your dish.
Cover the skillet and cook just until the broccoli turns bright green and starts to soften, which should take about one to two minutes. Keep an eye on it!
Remove the lid and let the mixture come to a full boil. Stir occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to finish cooking—this will take around three to five minutes.
Once everything is cooked through and the sauce has thickened nicely, it’s time to serve your Mongolian Chicken. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Temperature: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken; this helps in achieving a good sear.
Ingredient Quality: Using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor significantly. Fresh ginger and garlic make a big difference.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more water or coconut aminos to reach your desired consistency.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are countless ways to make Mongolian Chicken your own. Whether you’re looking to tweak the flavors, adjust for dietary needs, or simply experiment, these tips will inspire you!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop.
Pairing: Serve with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat if you enjoy spicy food.

Serving Ideas for Mongolian Chicken

When it comes to serving Mongolian Chicken, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to consider:

With Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a satisfying meal.
Salad Topping: Spoon it over a bed of greens for a healthy twist.
Wraps: Use it as a filling in lettuce wraps for a light and crunchy option.
Family Style: Serve the chicken in a large bowl, allowing everyone to dish out their own portions.
Meal Prep: Divide into containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual gatherings—it’s sure to impress guests!

FAQ

Absolutely! While chicken thighs add a rich flavor and tenderness, chicken breast can also work well. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time since breasts tend to cook faster. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to prevent drying out.

If you don’t have coconut aminos on hand, you can use soy sauce as an alternative, though it will add a bit more saltiness. For a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute that has a similar flavor profile.

Definitely! Mongolian Chicken is quite versatile. You can add bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots for more color and nutrition. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure all veggies are tender yet crisp.

No, Mongolian Chicken is generally not spicy. However, if you enjoy a kick, feel free to add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños while cooking. This can easily elevate the flavor and add heat according to your preference.

Conclusion

Mongolian Chicken is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that can fit any occasion. With its quick preparation and delightful taste, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!