Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls
If you’re searching for a meal prep recipe that is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious, look no further than Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls. This dish combines tender chicken, crisp green beans, and fluffy rice all drizzled in a sweet and savory sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for busy weeks, these meal prep bowls ensure you have a satisfying lunch or dinner ready to go, bringing a touch of excitement to your daily meals.
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls are a hit for several reasons. First, the flavor profile is absolutely irresistible. The balance of sweetness from the brown sugar and the savory notes from the soy sauce creates a harmonious blend that appeals to almost everyone. The crunch of fresh green beans adds a delightful texture, while the tender chicken pieces soak up all the delicious flavors. These meal prep bowls are also versatile, making them suitable for various dietary preferences. Plus, they can easily be customized to accommodate different tastes, ensuring that everyone at the table will enjoy them.
What’s in the Bowl
To make your Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3/4 cup uncooked rice – For a fluffy base that soaks up all the flavors.
- 12 ounces fresh green beans – Adds a fresh, crunchy element.
- 2 large chicken breasts – Cut into bite-size pieces for quick cooking.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch – To create a crispy coating on the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and green beans.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar – For that signature sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – For aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated – Adds a warm and zesty kick.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – For depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce – Optional, for a bit of heat.
- 1 cup water – To help create the sauce.
- Scallions, chopped, to taste – For garnish and added freshness.
Must-Have Equipment
Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen essentials:
- Large skillet or wok – For cooking the chicken and green beans.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
- Cutting board and knife – To chop your chicken and vegetables.
- Rice cooker or pot – To cook the rice perfectly.
- Mixing bowl – For combining the cornstarch and chicken.
Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls — Do This Next
Ready to dive into the cooking process? Follow these simple steps to whip up your Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls:
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Begin by cooking the rice according to package instructions. If using a rice cooker, simply add the rice and water and let it do the work. Fluff it with a fork once it’s done.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated. This will give the chicken a crispy texture when cooked.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Green Beans
In the same skillet, add the fresh green beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sriracha, and water. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the cooked green beans.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken and green beans in the sauce. Allow it to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7: Assemble the Bowls
In meal prep containers, add a generous scoop of rice, followed by the chicken and green bean mixture. Top with chopped scallions for an extra burst of flavor.
What to Use Instead
If you’re looking to customize your Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls, consider these substitutions:
- Quinoa or cauliflower rice – For a gluten-free or lower-carb option instead of regular rice.
- Tofu or shrimp – As a protein alternative to chicken.
- Broccoli or bell peppers – Instead of green beans for different veggies.
- Agave syrup or coconut sugar – As a substitute for brown sugar if needed.
Avoid These Traps
To ensure your Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overcooking the chicken – Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Not properly coating the chicken – Ensure the chicken is well-coated with cornstarch for a crispy texture.
- Skipping the simmering step – Allowing the sauce to thicken is key for flavor.
- Using stale ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger will make a big difference in taste.
Storage & Reheat Guide
For optimal freshness and flavor, follow these storage tips:
- Cool completely – Allow the meal prep bowls to cool before sealing them.
- Store in airtight containers – This will keep the food fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheat in the microwave – Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed through.
Quick Questions
Can I make Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bowls are perfect for meal prep and can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth in place of water for the sauce.
Can I freeze these meal prep bowls?
While it’s possible to freeze them, the texture of the green beans may change upon thawing. For best results, prepare fresh bowls when possible.
How do I make the sauce less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the amount of brown sugar and add a splash more soy sauce for balance.
What to Make After This
If you enjoy these Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls, you might also like:
Bring It to the Table
Now that you’ve mastered the art of Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls, it’s time to share your creation with family and friends. These bowls are not just a meal; they’re an experience – flavorful, fulfilling, and sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re enjoying them at home during a busy week or sharing them at a potluck, they are bound to be a favorite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the deliciousness begin!
Mongolian Chicken Meal Prep Bowls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Rice. Begin by cooking the rice according to package instructions. If using a rice cooker, simply add the rice and water and let it do the work. Fluff it with a fork once it's done.
- Step 2: Coat the Chicken. In a mixing bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated. This will give the chicken a crispy texture when cooked.
- Step 3: Cook the Chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 4: Sauté the Green Beans. In the same skillet, add the fresh green beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
- Step 5: Prepare the Sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sriracha, and water. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the cooked green beans.
- Step 6: Combine Everything. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken and green beans in the sauce. Allow it to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 7: Assemble the Bowls. In meal prep containers, add a generous scoop of rice, followed by the chicken and green bean mixture. Top with chopped scallions for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Cool completely before sealing the bowls for freshness.
- Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
