In the midst of a busy week, I found myself staring into the fridge, rifling through shelves for inspiration. That’s when the idea struck—what about a quick and delicious scallion chicken? This vibrant dish combines succulent chicken thighs with the sweet, vibrant flavor of scallions, creating a delightful stir-fry that’s both satisfying and healthy. Ready in under 20 minutes, it proves that homemade meals can be quick and flavorful, even on the craziest of days. It’s a budget-friendly option, perfect for anyone seeking to escape the fast-food routine while enjoying Asian cuisine at home. Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinner into something special? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that you’ll make again and again!
Why Choose Scallion Chicken Tonight?
Quick & Easy: This scallion chicken recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when you crave something homemade but don’t have much time.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of tender chicken thighs and the sweet, oniony notes of scallions guarantees a delicious, satisfying meal.
Healthy Option: Low-calorie and diabetic-friendly, this dish lets you savor vibrant Asian flavors while keeping your health goals in check. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete experience!
Versatile Ingredients: Got leftovers? You can easily substitute chicken with beef or pork. Throw in some colorful veggies for added nutrition—think bell peppers or broccoli.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. If you love comforting stir-fries, you might also enjoy my Gnocchi Chicken Pot or Chicken Pot Pie recipes!
Scallion Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – A juicy choice ideal for stir-frying, giving your scallion chicken that tender texture everyone loves.
• Corn Starch – Coating the chicken with this helps lock in moisture and achieve a delightful crispiness.
For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – This provides the umami flavor and saltiness; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative if needed.
• Dark Soy Sauce – Adds depth and a rich color; use regular soy sauce if dark isn’t on hand.
• Oyster Sauce – Enhances the overall flavor; swap in mushroom sauce for a vegetarian option.
• Black Pepper Powder – Adds a little kick to the dish; adjust according to your spice preference.
For the Scallions
• Scallions – Their sweet and onion-like flavor is essential; you can substitute with green onions in a pinch.
• Oil – Vegetable or sesame oil works best for frying the chicken, helping to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Remember, this scallion chicken is perfect for those busy evenings, transforming your routine into a tasty experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Scallion Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch. Mix well to ensure each piece is coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the scallions, separating their white and green parts. This step not only infuses flavor but also enhances the scallion chicken’s texture.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable or sesame oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the oil glistens, add the marinated chicken thighs, ensuring they’re in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 3: Cook the White Scallion Parts
Once the chicken is cooked, add the white parts of the scallions to the pan. Stir gently to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the scallions soften and become fragrant. This step further enhances the flavor and adds a delightful texture to your scallion chicken dish.
Step 4: Add the Green Scallion Parts
Toss in the green parts of the scallions and give everything a good stir. Cook for an additional 10-20 seconds, just until the green scallions are bright and soft. Make sure everything is well mixed, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully for the perfect finish to your scallion chicken.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once you’ve achieved that vibrant look with tender chicken coated in a light glaze, remove the pan from the heat. Serve your scallion chicken hot, garnished with extra pepper or scallions if desired. Pair it with steaming rice or noodles for a satisfying meal, perfect any night of the week!
What to Serve with Scallion Chicken?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides and pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of this scrumptious dish.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice soaks up the delicious sauce and provides a neutral base to balance the dish’s flavors.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli added into the mix create a crunchy texture, enhancing nutrition and visual appeal.
- Soy Sauce Noodles: Tossed with a touch of soy sauce, these noodles add a silky texture and depth, perfectly absorbing the scallion chicken’s savory glaze.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp cucumbers and a tangy dressing adds a cool contrast, cutting through the chicken’s richness.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies provide a fun crunch, working as a finger food deliciously alongside your main dish.
- Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and slightly grassy, green tea enhances the flavors and adds a soothing note to your meal, fostering a lovely harmony.
Expert Tips for Scallion Chicken
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Check Doneness: Always ensure your chicken is fully cooked by checking its internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 165°F for safety.
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Non-Stick Essential: Using a non-stick pan is crucial to prevent the chicken from sticking, especially when coated with corn starch for that juicy scallion chicken texture.
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Sweet Balance: For a touch of sweetness, add a hint of sugar or honey to the marinade; scallions naturally sweeten upon cooking, creating a delightful balance.
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Variations Galore: Don’t hesitate to swap proteins! This scallion chicken recipe easily works with pork, beef, or even tofu for diverse flavors.
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Veggie Power: Boost the nutrition by tossing in colorful vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, making your dish not only delicious but also vibrant and healthy.
Make Ahead Options
These scallion chicken bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can chop the scallions (keeping the white and green parts distinct) a day ahead to save time. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, just pan-fry the marinated chicken as instructed, add the scallions, and you’ll have a delicious homemade meal in no time, just as vibrant and flavorful as if freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Scallion Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover scallion chicken in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. This helps maintain its juicy texture while keeping it fresh for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze scallion chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water to retain moisture and enjoy!
Scallion Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on scallion chicken! Each variation brings a new flavor experience to your table, making your meals even more enjoyable.
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Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with pork or beef for a new take on the classic recipe that adds depth to the flavor.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in colorful bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and vibrant color, turning your dish into a rainbow of flavors.
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Herb Infusion: Add a burst of flavor by incorporating fresh ginger or garlic into the marinade, lifting your scallion chicken to an aromatic new level.
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Low-Sodium Option: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lower sodium alternative without sacrificing taste, perfect for health-conscious cooks.
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Vegan Delight: Swap the chicken for tofu for a plant-based version of scallion chicken that’s equally delicious, absorbing all the savory flavors.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, include sliced chili peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes in your dish. It adds a delightful spice to balance the sweetness of scallions.
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Crispy Texture: For added crunch, sprinkle fried shallots or toasted sesame seeds on top before serving, providing a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
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Citrus Zing: Brighten up your dish with a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice right before serving—an effortless way to enhance the flavors of the scallion chicken.
By experimenting with these variations, you can easily create a new family favorite. And if you’re looking for more tasty inspirations, don’t miss out on my Parmesan Crusted Chicken or the comforting Chicken Pillows Parmesan—each one promises to deliver deliciously!
Scallion Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best scallions for my recipe?
Absolutely! When picking scallions, look for firm, bright green stalks with no dark spots or wilting. The bulbs should be white and plump, indicating freshness. Avoid scallions with yellowing or slimy ends, as these are signs of age.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge and how should I do it?
You can store leftover scallion chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To keep it fresh, make sure the container is sealed tightly to avoid any moisture entering. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water to retain its tenderness.
Can I freeze scallion chicken, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze scallion chicken, allow it to cool completely after cooking. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop.
What mistake should I avoid while cooking scallion chicken?
Very important! One common mistake is not checking the doneness of the chicken. Always ensure it’s cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee safety and juiciness. Also, using too high of a heat can lead to uneven cooking, so stick to medium heat for an even sear.
Is this scallion chicken recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This scallion chicken is low-calorie and diabetic-friendly, but if you have allergies or specific dietary needs, consider alternatives. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. If you’re vegetarian, swap the chicken for tofu and the oyster sauce for mushroom sauce to maintain that delicious umami flavor.
What can I serve with scallion chicken for a complete meal?
Absolutely! Pair your scallion chicken with some steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a comforting meal. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or stir-fried vegetables to make it even more nutritious and colorful. The more the merrier!
Savory Scallion Chicken Ready in 20 Minutes or Less
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch. Mix well and let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cook the White Scallion Parts: Add the white parts of the scallions to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Green Scallion Parts: Toss in the green parts of the scallions and cook for an additional 10-20 seconds.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with extra pepper or scallions if desired.
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