The first time I made Scallion Chicken, my kitchen transformed into a bustling Asian eatery. The sizzle of chicken thighs hitting the hot pan was an invitation to flavor, and the sweet, oniony notes of scallions floated through the air, promising a delicious meal with every bite. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to create satisfying homemade dishes can feel overwhelming, but this dish makes it easy!
Ready in under 20 minutes and bursting with hearty flavor, Scallion Chicken is your answer to those busy weeknights when you crave something both tasty and healthy. Not only is it budget-friendly, but its low-calorie profile ensures that every serving is as nutritious as it is delicious. With only a handful of ingredients, you can impress yourself and your loved ones with a vibrant meal that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant. So grab your skillet and let’s dive into this quick culinary adventure!
Why is Scallion Chicken a Must-Try?
Quick Cooking: This Scallion Chicken recipe is ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with savory and sweet notes from tender chicken and scallions.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing simple ingredients keeps costs low while maximizing taste.
Diet-Friendly: Enjoy guilt-free with its low-calorie and diabetic-friendly profile.
Versatile Dish: Customize it with veggies or proteins to suit your cravings!
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with a restaurant-quality meal made at home.
Scallion Chicken Ingredients
• Discover the flavors that make Scallion Chicken a delightful meal!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs – Provide tenderness and moisture; substitute with chicken breast for a leaner but drier option.
- Corn Starch – Used for coating the chicken to create a crispy exterior; potato starch is a great alternative.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce – Adds essential umami and seasoning; tamari works well for a gluten-free choice.
- Dark Soy Sauce – Contributes a richer color and depth of flavor; regular soy sauce can be substituted, but this may change the taste slightly.
- Oyster Sauce – Enhances savoriness; you can use mushroom sauce for a vegetarian alternative.
- Black Pepper Powder – Adds a bit of heat; feel free to adjust based on your personal spice preference.
For the Aromatics
- Scallions – Provide sweetness and onion flavor; if unavailable, green onions can work as a replacement.
For Cooking
- Oil – Used for frying the chicken; a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil is best for this dish.
How to Make Scallion Chicken
-
Marinate Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch. Allow this mixture to marinate for 10 minutes, letting the flavors infuse into the meat.
-
Prep Scallions: While the chicken is marinating, chop the scallions. Make sure to separate the white parts from the green as they’ll be added at different stages for better flavor distribution.
-
Cook Chicken: Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and pan-fry until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes, ensuring they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
-
Add Scallions: Toss in the white parts of the scallions, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. If you’ve cut larger pieces, cover the pan briefly to help them cook through. After that, stir in the green parts for an additional 10-20 seconds before pulling off the heat.
-
Serve: Plate the Scallion Chicken and feel free to garnish with extra pepper or scallions. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles, creating a satisfying and nourishing meal!
Optional: For an extra bit of crunch, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Scallion Chicken Variations
Discover how to make this delicious dish even more exciting with these simple variations!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute any sauces that may contain dairy, like certain oyster sauces, with vegan options for a completely dairy-free version.
-
Gluten-Free: Use tamari in place of standard soy sauce. This swap maintains the umami flavor without gluten.
-
Vegetable Boost: Add vibrant veggies like bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for a colorful, nutrient-packed dish that adds crunch.
-
Spicy Twist: Toss in red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the pan while cooking for a zesty kick that will awaken your taste buds.
-
Protein Swap: Replace chicken with pork or tofu. Pork chops offer richness, while crispy tofu provides a plant-based alternative that soaks up all the flavors.
-
Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup at the end of cooking for a sweet contrast against the savory flavors, perfect for those who love a bit of sweetness in their savory meals.
-
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh ginger or cilantro at the end for a fresh burst of flavor that elevates your Scallion Chicken into a fragrant delight.
-
Noodle Delight: Serve over rice noodles instead of plain rice for a light, airy dish that takes inspiration from traditional Asian cuisine.
Make Ahead Options
These Scallion Chicken preparations are a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and ensuring a juicy result. Just mix the chicken with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch, then cover and refrigerate. The scallions can also be chopped and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep their freshness. When you’re ready to eat, simply pan-fry the marinated chicken and add the scallions as directed. This way, you achieve a quick, delicious meal that tastes just as exquisite as if it were freshly made!
Expert Tips for Scallion Chicken
-
Cut Chicken Evenly: Ensure chicken thighs are cut into uniform pieces for consistent cooking and tenderness throughout.
-
Perfect Marinade Time: Marinating for at least 10 minutes is key. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the flavors of the Scallion Chicken.
-
Monitor Heat Levels: Use medium heat when cooking the chicken. Too high can lead to burnt edges while leaving the inside undercooked.
-
Separate Scallions: Always add the white scallion parts first to develop flavor before the green ones, which cook faster and can become mushy.
-
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan leads to steam instead of a crisp finish on the chicken.
-
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them correctly by refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Scallion Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Scallion Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, portion the chicken in freezer-safe bags; it can be kept for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool before sealing.
Reheating: For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to regain moisture. Microwaving is faster but may result in a softer texture.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Scallion Chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent food safety risks.
What to Serve with Scallion Chicken?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of your Scallion Chicken.
-
Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The subtle floral notes and fluffiness of jasmine rice make it an ideal canvas for the savory sauce, soaking up every bit of flavor.
-
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp, colorful vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas add a satisfying crunch and fresh taste, balancing the richness of the chicken.
-
Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light soy and sesame dressing, these noodles provide a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the scallions in your dish.
-
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy appetizers introduce an exciting texture contrast while providing a refreshing bite, making every meal feel like a celebration.
-
Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed with garlic for added flavor, green beans bring a vibrant color, freshness, and an extra layer of nutrition to your dinner plate.
-
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A cool, tangy cucumber salad is the perfect palate cleanser, refreshing between bites of the warm and savory Scallion Chicken.
-
Mango Lassi: This creamy, sweet yogurt drink beautifully complements the savory elements of the chicken, adding a delightful touch of sweetness.
-
Fruit Sorbet: As a light dessert option, a scoop of fruity sorbet provides a cool finish to your meal, sweetening the experience after the savory richness of the chicken.
Scallion Chicken Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for Scallion Chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are my favorite for this dish as they remain tender and juicy during cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts can be used, but they may yield drier results. Just be sure to monitor cooking times closely!
How do I store leftover Scallion Chicken?
To keep your Scallion Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s essential to let it cool completely before sealing it up. This approach will help maintain the delicious texture and flavor for your next meal!
Can I freeze Scallion Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Scallion Chicken! First, let it cool completely, then divide it into portion-sized servings and place them in freezer-safe bags. It will stay good for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water to retain moisture.
What should I do if my chicken is sticking to the pan?
Good question! If you notice that your chicken is sticking, this could be because the pan isn’t hot enough or too much moisture is trapped. Be sure to heat the oil thoroughly before adding the chicken. A non-stick pan is ideal, and remember not to overcrowd it. This way, the chicken can sear properly.
Is Scallion Chicken safe for people with dietary restrictions?
Certainly! This Scallion Chicken can be made diabetic-friendly due to its low-calorie and low-fat profile. If you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari and keep an eye on oyster sauce brands that may contain gluten. Always check ingredients to prevent any allergic reactions!
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the chicken to check that the juices run clear and there’s no pink visible; that’s your guarantee of deliciously cooked Scallion Chicken!
Delicious Scallion Chicken Ready in Under 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch. Allow this mixture to marinate for 10 minutes.
- While the chicken is marinating, chop the scallions, separating the white parts from the green.
- Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and pan-fry until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- Toss in the white parts of the scallions, cooking for 2-3 minutes. Then stir in the green parts for an additional 10-20 seconds before removing from heat.
- Plate the Scallion Chicken and garnish with extra pepper or scallions. Serve with rice or noodles.