Scallion Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, I’ve got just the thing for you! This Scallion Chicken recipe is an absolute favorite in my home. It’s not only easy to whip up in just 20 minutes, but it also brings together tender chicken and vibrant scallions in a tasty Asian-inspired sauce that makes every bite comforting. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the burst of flavor from fresh scallions. They add a lovely crunch and brightness that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but doesn’t take much effort—perfect for when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Family-friendly: With its mild flavors and tender chicken, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
• Minimal ingredients: You probably already have most of these simple ingredients on hand!
• Versatile serving options: Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.
• Deliciously flavorful: The combination of sauces and fresh scallions creates an irresistible taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Scallion Chicken, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious dish!

For the Chicken

• 400 g Chicken thighs (cut into small pieces)
• 2 cups scallion (chopped)

For the Marinade

• 4 tablespoons oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder (more or less to your liking)
• 2 tablespoons corn starch

Variations

One of the best things about this Scallion Chicken recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas while cooking for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the sauce: Use teriyaki sauce instead of oyster sauce if you’re looking for a sweeter flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to bring some heat to your dish!

How to Make Scallion Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing together the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch. This step is crucial because marinating helps infuse flavor into the chicken and keeps it tender during cooking. Let it sit for about 10 minutes while you chop those beautiful scallions—remember to separate the white parts from the green parts!

Step 2: Pan Frying the Chicken

Heat some oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Carefully add your marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Pan frying allows the chicken to develop a lovely golden color while sealing in juices for moist meat. Cook until fully cooked through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes depending on how small you’ve cut your pieces.

Step 3: Add Scallions

Now it’s time to add flavor! Toss in the white parts of your scallions and cook them until they soften. This step brings out their sweetness and adds depth to our dish. If you’re using larger pieces of chicken or those with bones, cover your pan with a lid so everything cooks evenly. Once those white scallions are tender, throw in the green parts and stir for just 10-20 seconds—just enough time for them to wilt slightly.

Step 4: Serve Up Your Dish!

Finish off by sprinkling more black pepper or additional scallions on top if you’d like! Serve your Scallion Chicken hot over cooked rice or noodles. This meal is sure to become a go-to favorite at your dining table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Scallion Chicken

Cooking scallion chicken is a breeze, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality!

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes lets the flavors meld together, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
• Use a Non-Stick Pan: A non-stick pan helps prevent the chicken from sticking and ensures even cooking. This makes flipping and removing the chicken much easier!
• Cook on Medium Heat: Cooking on medium heat allows for even cooking without burning the outside of the chicken while ensuring it’s fully cooked inside.
• Separate Scallion Parts: By separating the white parts from the green parts, you can control their cooking times. The whites need longer to soften, while the greens just need a quick stir for freshness.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone has different taste preferences, so feel free to tweak the pepper or soy sauce levels according to what you enjoy. Cooking is all about making it your own!

How to Serve Scallion Chicken

Presenting scallion chicken beautifully enhances your dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
• Sesame Seeds: Lightly toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top add an appealing crunch and nutty flavor.
• Sliced Red Chili: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, thin slices of red chili can bring spice and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice pairs perfectly with scallion chicken, soaking up all those delicious sauces.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots adds nutrition and vibrancy to your plate.
• Garlic Noodles: These noodles are simple yet packed with flavor; they make a great base to complement the scallion chicken.
• Crispy Spring Rolls: Crunchy spring rolls filled with vegetables provide a delightful contrast in texture and are perfect for dipping in soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.

Enjoy your scallion chicken adventure! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a meal that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Scallion Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance and store it for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked scallion chicken to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer the chicken to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the scallion chicken cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality. Label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen scallion chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a non-stick pan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Scallion Chicken.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for scallion chicken?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs add a rich flavor and tenderness, you can substitute them with chicken breasts. Just be sure not to overcook them to keep them juicy.

What can I serve with scallion chicken?

Scallion Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal!

How do I make scallion chicken spicier?

To add some heat, consider including sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce when cooking your scallion chicken. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I make scallion chicken ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is ideal for meal prep. Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze portions for later use.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Scallion Chicken as much as I do! It’s quick, satisfying, and full of flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or an easy meal prep option. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own. Happy cooking!