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Crispy Mongolian Chicken

A delightful deep-fried dish coated in a sweet and savory sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb chicken, sliced Tender meat that becomes juicy and flavorful when cooked.
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch Helps create a crispy coating.
  • 1 cup vegetable oil Used for frying, providing a high smoke point.
  • 2 green onions sliced Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor as a garnish.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil For sautéing garlic and ginger.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Delivers aromatic depth.
  • 1 in ginger, minced Adds a warm, spiced note.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar Contributes sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce.
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes Offers a subtle heat.
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce Brings umami depth.
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar Adds acidity.
  • 1/4 cup water Used to adjust sauce consistency.
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds Optional garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium saucepan over low to medium heat, add two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and ginger and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds.
  2. Whisk in brown sugar, red pepper flakes, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and water.
  3. Cook until slightly thickened, about 5-10 minutes, and set aside.
  4. Coat sliced chicken with cornstarch until evenly distributed.
Cooking
  1. Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
  2. Once hot, add chicken and fry until browned and cooked through, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Transfer chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serving
  1. Add chicken back to the skillet, pour in the sauce mixture, and cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Stir in green onions and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
  3. Enjoy immediately over rice.

Notes

For best texture, serve the dish as soon as it’s ready. Customize the sauce sweetness or heat according to your preference.