There’s something magical about the way a slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor. I remember the first time I tried making Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken at home. It was one of those busy weekdays when I needed something comforting yet effortless. The aroma of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce wafting through the house was unforgettable. As the chicken simmered in the rich, sticky sauce, I couldn’t wait to dig in. That night, my family devoured the dish over steamed rice, and it became an instant favorite 10. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for meal prep, this Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken is for you.
Table of Contents
This article will guide you step-by-step through making this delectable dish while sharing tips, variations, and nutritional insights. Let’s dive in!
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Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken
- Total Time: PT6H15M
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A sweet and savory dish made with tender chicken simmered in a flavorful Mongolian-inspired sauce, all prepared easily in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup brown sugar (or honey for a natural alternative)
- 1 cup chopped green onions (reserve some for garnish)
Instructions
1. Pat the chicken dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Place it in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, water, and brown sugar until the sugar dissolves. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it back into the sauce.
5. Garnish with remaining green onions before serving.
Notes
- Add chopped vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of garlic or add red pepper flakes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: PT15M
- Cook Time: PT6H
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Slow Cooker, Mongolian Chicken, Easy Dinner, Gluten-Free Option
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken
A Dish That Combines Convenience and Flavor
The beauty of Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and aromatic garlic and ginger creates a sauce that’s both rich and addictive. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to impress.
For more inspiration on slow cooker meals, check out our Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken or Slow Cooker Beef Stew . Both are equally delicious and perfect for busy days.
Perfect for Every Occasion
What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility. Serve it as a weeknight dinner, bring it to potlucks, or even pack it for lunch. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers taste even better. Pair it with rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For additional ideas, explore our Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes section.
Ingredients and Preparation
Simple Ingredients, Incredible Results
To make Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken , you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped green onions (reserve some for garnish)
These ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making this dish budget-friendly and convenient. If you’re looking for substitutions, try swapping honey for brown sugar or coconut aminos for soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
For more ingredient swaps and tips, visit our Kitchen Staples Guide .
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, water, and brown sugar until the sugar dissolves.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it. Add half of the chopped green onions.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the sauce. Garnish with remaining green onions before serving.
Tips and Variations
Customize Your Dish
One of the best things about Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken is how customizable it is. Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for extra nutrition. For a spicier kick, toss in red pepper flakes or sriracha. If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting chicken with beef strips or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Meal Prep Made Easy
This dish is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal. For more meal prep ideas, check out Meal Prep Recipes for Busy Weekdays .
Nutritional Information and FAQs
Health Benefits of Mongolian Chicken
Each serving of Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken contains approximately 350 calories, 30g of protein, 15g of carbohydrates, and 10g of fat. While it’s slightly higher in sugar due to the brown sugar, the protein-rich chicken ensures it’s a filling and satisfying meal. To reduce sugar content, use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
For more healthy recipes, browse our Nutritious Dinner Ideas collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work beautifully and stay juicier during slow cooking.
Q2: Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers are excellent additions.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Mongolian Chicken is a dish that combines convenience, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Its sweet and savory sauce, tender chicken, and endless customization options make it a crowd-pleaser every time. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen!
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