Name: Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken: A Quick Flavor Boost
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breast (Can substitute with firm tofu or sliced mushrooms.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Coating for chicken for a crispy texture.); 1 cup Soy Sauce (Savory base with umami flavor.); 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness and balances spiciness.); 2 tablespoons Hoisin Sauce (Can substitute with soy sauce and peanut butter.); 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger (Enhances flavor with a fresh, warm bite.); 2 cloves Garlic (Adds depth and complexity.); 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust to taste for spiciness.); 1 cup Water (Dilutes soy sauce and assists in creating smooth sauce.); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (High smoke point oil for stir-frying.); 1 cup Red Bell Pepper (Provides crunch and color.); 2 stalks Green Onions (For freshness and garnish.); 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (Adds texture and nutty flavor.)

As I flipped through my recipe book, a wave of nostalgia washed over me—growing up, stir-fries were our family’s go-to for quick dinners after busy days. Today, I’m excited to share my take on this classic with my Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken. This dish brings a delightful mix of heat and sweetness together in just 30 minutes, making it not only a perfect weeknight solution but also a high-protein delight for the whole family. Whether you’re feeding meat lovers or looking for easy vegetarian adaptations with tofu or mushrooms, this recipe caters to everyone’s cravings. Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience.

Flavor Explosion: Packed with tender chicken, zesty ginger, and a sweet-spicy sauce, it’s a delightful taste journey in every bite.

Versatile Options: Easily transform this meal by swapping chicken for tofu or mushrooms, making it a great fit for vegetarians too!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering, everyone is sure to appreciate this delicious dish.

Healthy Eating: With a high-protein content and balanced flavors, this stir-fry is both nourishing and satisfying.

Dive into the delicious world of easy homemade meals and check out my other favorite recipes like Honey Bourbon Chicken or Grilled Chicken Bacon for more tasty inspiration!

Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken Ingredients

• Dive into the delightful components that make this dish shine!

For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast – Lean protein that soaks up flavors; can substitute with firm tofu or sliced mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Cornstarch – Coating for chicken that creates a crispy texture when cooked, ensuring every bite is perfectly crunchy.

For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – Savory base of the sauce with umami flavor; provides depth and richness.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses, creating a perfect balance with the spiciness.
• Hoisin Sauce – Offers tangy sweetness; can substitute with equal parts soy sauce and peanut butter with a dash of vinegar if needed.
• Minced Ginger – Fresh, warm bite that enhances the flavor; a key player in this stir-fry.
• Garlic – Adds depth and complexity with its sharp flavor, rounding out the sauce beautifully.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Adjustable for spiciness; use to taste or omit for a milder dish.
• Water – Dilutes soy sauce to control saltiness and assists in dissolving sugar for a smooth sauce.

For the Vegetables
• Vegetable Oil – High smoke point oil for stir-frying, ensuring a crisp exterior without burning.
• Red Bell Pepper – Provides crunch and color; stir-fry until tender-crisp for the best texture.
• Green Onions – Added at the end for freshness and garnish, bringing a pop of brightness.

For Garnish (optional)
• Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle on top for added texture and flavor; they elevate the dish beautifully.

Get ready to enjoy this Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken as it transforms your dinner table into a feast of flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by slicing the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. In a bowl, toss the chicken with cornstarch until well-coated, which will give it a delightful crispiness when stir-fried. Set this aside while you heat up your wok or skillet.

Step 2: Heat the Oil
Place your large wok or a deep skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Allow the oil to heat for about 1-2 minutes, until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for stir-frying. This is crucial for achieving that perfect, crispy exterior on your chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken turns a golden brown and is cooked through, which you can verify by cutting into a piece and ensuring there’s no pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary, then toss in minced ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry these ingredients for about 30 seconds, until you notice the fragrant aromas filling the air, signaling that they are ready to enhance the flavor of your dish.

Step 5: Create the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and hoisin sauce until well combined. Pour this mixture into the skillet over the sautéed aromatics, and let it simmer for approximately 2 minutes or until it slightly thickens, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even flavor distribution.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Veggies
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring it into the bubbling sauce. Add the sliced red bell pepper at this point, ensuring everything is well coated. Stir-fry together for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the bell peppers to become tender-crisp and vibrant in color, showcasing the Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken beautifully.

Step 7: Finish and Serve
Just before serving, toss in the chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve the vibrant stir-fry hot over fluffy steamed rice, garnishing with sesame seeds for added texture and a nutty flavor, if desired. Enjoy the delightful balance of heat and sweetness in your Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken!

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken by slicing and coating it with cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can mix the sauce ingredients (soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and hoisin sauce) and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat oil in a wok, cook the prepped chicken until golden, and follow the usual steps to combine it with sautéed aromatics and bell peppers. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but ensures your Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken remains just as delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water if it appears dry during reheating.

Serving Tip: Enjoy the chicken over freshly steamed rice for a satisfying meal, just like when it was first cooked!

Variations & Substitutions for Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken

Get creative with this recipe and make it your own with delightful twists and substitutions!

Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for firm tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version packed with flavors.
Spicier Kick: Add fresh sliced chili peppers alongside red pepper flakes for an extra heat boost that tantalizes your taste buds.
Hoisin Sauce Alternative: Mix equal parts peanut butter and soy sauce with a splash of vinegar for a homemade hoisin substitute.
Ginger Twist: Use fresh grated ginger for a bolder flavor or substitute with ground ginger if you’re in a pinch.
Sweetness Adjustment: Swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different layer of sweetness, making it light and luscious.
Crunch Boost: Incorporate snow peas or carrots for added crunch and color, making each bite even more satisfying!
Nutty Flavor: Top your dish with crushed peanuts for added texture and a nutty flavor that harmonizes with the sauce.
Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste.

If you enjoy making delightful adaptations, you might also enjoy other versatile recipes such as Lemon Chicken Orzo or Bang Bang Chicken!

Expert Tips for Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken

Cornstarch Coating: Ensure each chicken piece is evenly coated with cornstarch to achieve that delightful crispy texture you crave.
Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste; add more for spiciness or reduce for a milder flavor in your Mongolian Chicken.
Avoid Overcrowding: Stir-fry the chicken in batches if necessary; overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than achieving that perfect sear.
Vegetable Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with other veggies like snap peas or broccoli; they can complement your Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken beautifully!
Storage Savvy: For optimal flavor, cool leftovers quickly and store them in airtight containers; they’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

What to Serve with Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken

Create a delectable meal by pairing this flavorful dish with sides that enhance its vibrant taste.

Fluffy Steamed Rice: The perfect base to soak up the sweet-spicy sauce and balance the dish. It ensures every bite is harmonious and satisfying.
Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: A delightful crunch complements the tender chicken while adding a crunchy texture to your meal. They’re a great finger food addition!
Garlicky Bok Choy: This tender green can easily be sautéed alongside your stir-fry. Its subtle bitterness adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the chicken.
Sesame Noodles: These noodles bring a nutty flavor and delightful chewiness that pairs beautifully with the hearty sauce, creating a rich and satisfying combination.
Asian Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad offers a bright crunch that counters the richness of the chicken. It’s an invigorating palate cleanser!
Chilled Green Tea: A refreshing drink option that balances the heat while providing a soothing, healthful touch to the meal.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this traditional treat adds a sweet finish to your meal. Its creamy coconut flavor perfectly complements the spiciness of the main dish.
Light Soy Sauce: A dipping sauce on the side can enhance the flavors and allow everyone to adjust the saltiness to their liking.
Roasted Peanuts: These add a delightful crunch and a hint of saltiness that elevates the overall experience while also being a nice nibble if you’re feeling snacky!

Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breast, look for pieces that are pink and firm, without any dark spots or unpleasant odors. Fresh chicken should feel moist but not slimy. If you’re opting for a vegetarian alternative, choose firm tofu that can hold its shape during the stir-fry, or mushrooms such as shiitake or portobello for added umami flavor.

How do I store leftovers properly?
To maintain the deliciousness of your Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave until it’s warmed through!

Can I freeze Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken?
Definitely! For longer storage, you can freeze this dish in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the stir-fry to cool, then portion it out. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent it from drying out.

What if my stir-fry gets too dry during cooking?
Very! If you notice that your Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken is too dry while stir-frying, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan. This will help to create a bit more sauce and keep your dish moist. Just make sure to stir constantly to prevent sticking!

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Spicy Stir-Fried Mongolian Chicken can be adapted for various dietary needs. If you’re avoiding gluten, use tamari instead of soy sauce. For vegetarians, I recommend substituting chicken with firm tofu or hearty mushrooms. Always keep in mind any specific allergies when selecting ingredients, particularly when it comes to sauces and seasonings!

Can I customize the spice level in this dish?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce or even omit the red pepper flakes. Alternatively, for those who love a kick, feel free to add fresh chili peppers alongside the flakes for an extra layer of spiciness. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor!