Introduction: The Flavor of Takeout, Made Easy
There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of Mongolian chicken – that sweet and savory combination of tender chicken, a rich, slightly caramelized sauce, and a hint of ginger and garlic. But let’s be honest, replicating that takeout experience at home can be a time commitment, requiring hours of simmering and careful sauce-making. That’s where the Instant Pot comes in. This recipe dramatically cuts down the cooking time, delivering that authentic Mongolian chicken flavor in just minutes. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. The beauty of this Instant Pot version lies in its ability to create a deeply flavorful sauce through pressure cooking, intensifying the flavors of the soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. It’s a fantastic solution for busy weeknights, allowing you to savor the deliciousness of Mongolian chicken without sacrificing valuable time. Furthermore, the pressure cooking method ensures the chicken remains incredibly tender and juicy – a key characteristic of the dish. This isn’t just a convenient way to make Mongolian chicken; it’s a genuinely delicious way to experience one of the most beloved takeout dishes, all within the comfort of your own kitchen. The small amount of preparation involved – primarily chopping green onions and measuring out ingredients – makes it an accessible and rewarding meal, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. And because it’s an Instant Pot recipe, you know you’re getting consistently delicious results every time. easy weeknight dinners instant pot recipes mongolian chicken pressure cooking takeout recipes dinner recipes
Ingredients: Everything You’ll Need for Delicious Chicken
Let’s gather all the essential components to create a truly authentic and flavorful Instant Pot Mongolian Chicken. This recipe hinges on fresh, quality ingredients, and we’ll be using them to build layers of savory, sweet, and umami – mimicking the taste of your favorite takeout. Here’s a comprehensive list:
- Chicken: 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 6-8 thighs) – Thighs are preferred for their richer flavor and ability to stay tender during pressure cooking. Chicken breasts can be used, but they’re more prone to drying out, so be mindful of cooking times and liquid levels. chicken thighs are a great choice because of their flavor, and chicken breasts are a good substitute if you prefer them.
- Aromatic Base:
- 1 teaspoon chili oil (or crushed red pepper flakes) – Chili oil adds a subtle heat and a beautiful sheen, truly capturing the essence of Mongolian cuisine. sesame seed oil is a good substitute if you can’t find chili oil.
- 2 teaspoons sesame seed oil – Sesame oil provides a nutty and aromatic foundation for the sauce. sesame seed oil
- 6 stalks green onion (sliced into 1″ pieces, cut on the diagonal) – Green onions contribute a fresh, vibrant flavor and a beautiful color to the dish. You can also use scallions or chives if you prefer. green onion
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic – Fresh garlic is crucial for that savory punch. garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger – Ginger adds warmth and complexity, complementing the garlic perfectly. ginger
- The Sauce:
- ¾ cup chicken broth (2 portions – ½ cup and ¼ cup) – Chicken broth is essential for creating the sauce’s luscious consistency. Make sure it’s low-sodium to control the salt levels. chicken broth
- ½ cup soy sauce – Soy sauce provides the primary salty element, crucial for that authentic Mongolian flavor. soy sauce
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed) – Light brown sugar balances the saltiness with sweetness, offering depth of flavor. brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce – Hoisin sauce adds a rich, slightly sweet, and savory element, further enhancing the complexity. hoisin sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch (combined with equal portion of water) – Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, ensuring a perfectly smooth and luscious sauce. cornstarch
Note: Always have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start cooking to ensure a seamless experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the quantities to suit your personal taste. A little extra soy sauce, a pinch more brown sugar – it’s all part of the fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions: Cooking Mongolian Chicken in Your Instant Pot
Let’s dive into the incredibly simple process of creating authentic-tasting Mongolian chicken right in your Instant Pot! It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that delivers all the bold flavors of takeout without the lengthy cooking time. Here’s a detailed breakdown to guide you through each step, ensuring a delicious and tender result every time.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Before you even power up the Instant Pot, gather all your ingredients. This prevents any frantic scrambling mid-cooking. Make sure you have your chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless – approximately 1.5 lbs), chili oil chili oil, sesame seed oil sesame seed oil, green onions green onion, garlic garlic, ginger ginger, and soy sauce soy sauce. Roughly chop the green onions, mince the garlic and ginger – having these prepped significantly speeds up the overall process. You’ll also need about 3/4 cup of chicken broth – this is a key component of the sauce, so don’t skimp!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Place the chicken thighs or breasts into the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Add the chili oil chili oil, sesame seed oil sesame seed oil, sliced green onions green onion, minced garlic garlic, and minced ginger ginger. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is coated evenly. This initial sauté step is crucial – it builds the flavor base of the dish. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to sauté mode for about 3-4 minutes. This step elevates the initial taste tremendously.
Step 3: Pressure Cook the Chicken
Once the chicken is lightly browned (about 3-4 minutes), add the 3/4 cup of chicken broth. Make sure the liquid covers about 2/3 of the chicken pieces. Quickly close the lid, ensuring the sealing ring is properly in place. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting on your Instant Pot and set the cooking time for 6 minutes for chicken breasts or 8 minutes for chicken thighs. This pressure cooking stage is what transforms the chicken into incredibly tender perfection. Remember, the exact timing can slightly vary based on your Instant Pot model, so you may need to adjust it slightly.
Step 4: Quick Release the Pressure
After the pressure cooking time is complete, it’s time to release the pressure. Carefully follow your Instant Pot’s instructions for a quick pressure release – typically this involves manually opening the pressure release valve. Be cautious as hot steam will be released. Once the pressure is completely released, open the lid completely.
Step 5: Finishing the Sauce & Shredding the Chicken
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken into a bowl. Shred the chicken using two forks, creating small, bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the Instant Pot. Pour in the soy sauce soy sauce and stir everything together to coat the chicken evenly. Set the Instant Pot back to ‘Sauté’ mode for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This final step allows the sauce to thicken slightly and fully incorporate with the shredded chicken. Don’t overcook at this stage as it can cause the sauce to become too thick.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Instant Pot Mongolian chicken hot over steamed rice rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with extra chopped green onions green onion for added freshness and visual appeal. Enjoy the incredible convenience and delicious flavor of this authentic-tasting chicken dish – it’s a guaranteed weeknight winner!
Tips & Variations: Customizing Your Instant Pot Mongolian Chicken
Want to take your Instant Pot Mongolian Chicken to the next level? This recipe is incredibly versatile, and there are tons of ways to customize it to your liking! Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your weeknight dinner.
Spice It Up: The level of heat in this dish can easily be adjusted. For a milder flavor, simply reduce or omit the chili oil and red pepper flakes. However, if you love a kick, feel free to add more—up to 1-2 teaspoons of chili oil or a generous pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Alternatively, try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper for an even bolder flavor. You could also add a teaspoon of sriracha sauce directly to the sauce for an extra layer of heat and complexity.
Add Some Vegetables: This chicken dish is a fantastic base for adding your favorite veggies. Consider adding sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) – they’ll caramelize beautifully in the sauce and add a burst of color and sweetness. Broccoli florets, snap peas, or sliced carrots are also excellent additions. Add them during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking to ensure they retain some of their crispness. Another great addition is sliced mushrooms – shiitake or cremini mushrooms work particularly well, and they absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully.
Protein Power-Up: While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the classic choice, you can also use chicken breasts. Just be mindful of cooking times, as breasts tend to cook faster. For even more flavor, consider adding some bite-sized pieces of pork tenderloin to the mix – it’ll add a rich, savory element. You could also use shrimp – add them during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, as they cook very quickly.
Sauce Enhancements: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the sauce! A tablespoon of hoisin sauce adds a deeper, more complex sweetness. A splash of rice vinegar adds a bright, tangy note. A teaspoon of sesame paste (tahini) will create a richer, nuttier flavor, particularly great with mushrooms. A dash of Worcestershire sauce adds umami – a savoury depth of flavor. For a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk towards the end of cooking. Adding a small amount of cornstarch slurry for thickening the sauce always works. To make the sauce even brighter, you could add a squeeze of lime juice right before serving – it provides a pleasant acidity.
Rice & Grains: Serve your Instant Pot Mongolian chicken over fluffy jasmine rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a healthier option. If you’re serving over rice, consider adding some toasted sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture. Another fantastic alternative is serving over noodles – thick udon noodles or rice noodles would be delicious!
To truly customize your meal, remember to taste and adjust seasonings as you go. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touch to this fantastic recipe – it’s a great foundation for countless variations. Experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to find your perfect Instant Pot Mongolian Chicken!
Nutrition Information: Calories & Macros for a Healthy Meal
Let’s break down the nutritional information for this incredibly delicious Instant Pot Mongolian Chicken – it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful takeout-style meal without the guilt! This recipe, serving 6, delivers approximately 376 calories per serving, making it a surprisingly balanced addition to your diet. Here’s a more detailed breakdown, considering a standard serving size:
Calories: 376 kcal
Total Fat: 21g (32% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 5g (25% DV)
Cholesterol: 111mg (37% DV)
Sodium: 1369mg (56% DV) – Note: This is quite high, reflecting the soy sauce used. You can mitigate this by using low-sodium soy sauce or reducing the amount.
Carbohydrates: 25g (8% DV) - Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
- Sugar: 20g (22% DV) – Primarily from the brown sugar.
Protein: 21g (42% DV) – A good source of lean protein, supporting muscle repair and satiety.
Key Considerations & Macro Ratios:
The macro ratios in this recipe are approximately:
* Fat: 32% – Primarily from the sesame seed oil and the natural fats in the chicken.
* Protein: 42% – A significant amount of protein is included, which will contribute to a feeling of fullness.
* Carbohydrates: 8% – The carbohydrate content is relatively low, mainly due to the use of brown sugar and the minimal amount of grains (if any are added as a side).
Important Note: These values are estimates based on the ingredients and quantities used. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands and precise measurements. It’s always recommended to consult a reliable nutrition database for more accurate information based on your individual choices.
Potential Adjustments for Healthier Eating:
- Reduce Sodium: Using low-sodium soy sauce will drastically lower the sodium content.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with a sugar alternative (e.g., stevia) to reduce the sugar content.
- Increase Fiber: Adding a small amount of cooked brown rice or quinoa would increase the fiber content, further enhancing the meal’s nutritional value. Fiber is essential for digestive health and long-term well-being. Brown Rice is a healthy and versatile option.
This Instant Pot Mongolian Chicken provides a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a flavorful meal while keeping an eye on your nutritional intake. Nutrition Information is a valuable tool for making informed food choices. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions & Side Dish Ideas
To truly elevate your Instant Pot Mongolian Chicken experience, consider pairing it with a variety of complementary dishes that both satisfy your appetite and harmonize with the rich, savory flavors. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability – it’s a fantastic base for building a complete and exciting meal.
Rice is a Classic Choice: Of course, serving your Instant Pot Mongolian Chicken with a fluffy bed of white rice is a timeless pairing. Jasmine rice, with its slightly fragrant aroma, works exceptionally well, but basmati rice or even short-grain rice provide a satisfying textural contrast. Rice is a staple in many Asian cuisines, and its neutral flavor allows the deliciousness of the chicken to shine. To ensure perfect rice, use the rice setting on your Instant Pot.
Noodles for a Hearty Meal: For a more substantial and noodle-filled experience, consider serving your Instant Pot Mongolian Chicken over wide rice noodles or egg noodles. Egg Noodles are especially good for soaking up the sauce. You can also incorporate vegetables like bok choy or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Vegetable Sides for Freshness: Adding a vibrant side dish helps balance the richness of the chicken. Steamed broccoli, Broccoli, with a squeeze of lemon juice, provides a refreshing counterpoint. Stir-fried snow peas or snap peas are another excellent choice, offering a crisp texture and subtle sweetness. For a more substantial vegetable component, consider a simple green bean almondine. Green Bean Almondine is a classic and beautiful addition.
Salads for Brightness: A light and refreshing salad cuts through the richness and adds a welcome burst of flavor and texture. A simple Asian-inspired salad with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a sesame-ginger dressing is a brilliant choice. Sesame Ginger Dressing complements the Mongolian chicken perfectly. Adding some toasted sesame seeds provides another textural element.
Potatoes – A Comforting Addition: Mashed potatoes, either classic creamy or with roasted garlic, make a wonderful accompaniment. Mashed Potatoes are a comforting and filling addition.
Don’t Forget the Garnishes: Finishing your meal with a garnish like chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha elevates the presentation and adds an extra layer of flavor. Sesame seeds are a good topping to add to any dish! Consider a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous note.