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Easy Lunch Recipes: Mongolian Chicken Made Simple

Let’s talk about this Mongolian Chicken. It’s sweet, sticky, and just the right amount of savory with crisp edges and tender chicken bites. I threw this together on a Tuesday, between Zoom calls and laundry, and guess what? It felt like a little win. No one cried, the kitchen stayed clean, and we had zero leftovers—always a good sign. This recipe checks all the boxes if you're after Easy Lunch Recipes that taste like you really tried. I’m always up for Easy 5 Minute Recipes, but this one feels special. It’s right up there with 5 Minute Recipes that somehow trick people into thinking I ordered takeout. Think Easy Chicken Meals meet Easy Healthy Lunch Ideas. So whether you're juggling school drop-offs or just want something fast and satisfying, this one hits the spot. Oh, and it's way better than anything labeled Minute Steak Recipes. Let’s just say this chicken came to play.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: 5 Minute Recipes, Easy 5 Minute Recipes, Easy Chicken Meals, Easy Healthy Lunch Ideas, easy lunch recipes, easy recipes, Minute Steak Recipes
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Eleanor

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Toss chicken pieces with cornstarch until coated evenly.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds.
  4. Add soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  5. Let the sauce bubble for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce.
  7. Top with green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Best over rice or noodles.