Jump to Recipe Print RecipeIn the midst of a busy week, I often find myself craving something simple yet satisfying. That’s where this Quick and Flavorful Scallion Chicken comes in, transforming humble chicken thighs into a savory masterpiece in just 20 minutes! With the richness of soy and oyster sauces mingling with the sweet crunch of scallions, it’s not only a budget-friendly option but also a low-calorie delight perfect for any home cook ready to break up the weeknight routine. Whether you’re rushing through dinner or looking for a hearty meal packed with flavor, this dish is sure to impress. Curious about how to elevate your everyday meals with just a few ingredients? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is Scallion Chicken so Irresistible? Simplicity: This dish features a straight-forward preparation that uses minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fresh scallions creates a mouthwatering taste that will keep your taste buds dancing. Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver for anyone needing a fast yet satisfying meal. Versatility: Feel free to swap in your favorite protein or add colorful veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for an extra nutrition boost. Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients, scallion chicken proves that delicious food doesn’t have to break the bank. Get ready to enjoy the pleasures of home-cooked meals without the fuss, just like you would with Garlic Parmesan Chicken or a flavorful Honey Butter Chicken! Scallion Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken thighs – Perfectly juicy and tender; substitute with chicken breast for a leaner option. • Corn starch – Thickens the marinade and helps the sauce cling to the chicken; use less for a lighter sauce. For the Sauce • Soy sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative. • Dark soy sauce – Adds depth and color; can be omitted if not available but enhances the flavor. • Oyster sauce – Contributes a savory richness; swap with mushroom sauce for a vegetarian version. • Black pepper powder – Boosts heat; adjust according to your spice preference. For the Vegetables • Scallions (green onions) – Add a sweet, onion-y flavor; use both white and green parts for maximum impact. • Oil – Non-stick oils like vegetable or canola work best for frying; helps prevent sticking. Feel the excitement of preparing a Scallion Chicken that’s quick, delicious, and packed with flavor! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Scallion Chicken Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch. Ensure all pieces are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors while you prepare your cooking equipment. Step 2: Heat the Pan In a non-stick pan, pour in a tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers and begins to ripple. Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer; avoid crowding the pan to achieve a nice golden color. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. Step 3: Add the Scallions Once the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, introduce the white parts of the scallions to the pan. Stir them in, allowing their flavors to meld with the chicken for 1-2 minutes until they begin to soften. If your chicken pieces are larger, cover the pan to ensure even cooking throughout the meat. Step 4: Finishing Touches After the scallions have softened, add the green parts and toss everything together for an additional 10-20 seconds. This brief cooking time will keep the green scallions crisp while adding fresh flavor. Remove the pan from heat and let the flavors settle for a minute; this step allows your delicious scallion chicken to shine. Step 5: Serve the Dish Transfer your delectable scallion chicken to a serving platter, and if desired, sprinkle with extra black pepper for added flavor. Pair it hot with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the savory sauce. Enjoy this quick and tasty meal that’s sure to satisfy your hunger! Variations & Substitutions for Scallion Chicken Customize your scallion chicken to suit your taste buds or dietary needs! Each variation offers a delightful twist that elevates the dish even further. Dairy-Free: Replace any sauces or condiments with dairy-free alternatives, ensuring a flavor-packed experience for all diets. Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or seitan, marinating and cooking them just as you would the chicken for a plant-based delight. Spicy Kick: Add sliced red chilies or a drizzle of chili oil to your scallion chicken, putting a fiery spin on this delicious classic. Protein Swap: Try using boneless pork chops or beef strips; these can bring different textures and flavors into play that pair beautifully with scallions. Umami Boost: Incorporate some minced garlic or ginger along with the scallions for an aromatic layer that tantalizes your senses even more. Extra Veggies: Toss in colorful additions like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli, adding crunch and nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Citrusy Twist: A splash of lemon or lime juice can brighten the dish and provide an invigorating zesty finish. Rice Alternatives: Serve over cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb option while still enjoying that hearty essence of scallion chicken. Whether you’re exploring new flavors or accommodating dietary preferences, let your imagination run wild with this recipe! For even more inspiration, don’t forget to check out the amazing Tandoori Chicken Tikka or BBQ Chicken Sweet for fresh ideas! Tips for the Best Scallion Chicken • Marinate Wisely: Allowing the chicken to marinate for just 10 minutes makes a significant difference. This allows the flavors of the soy and oyster sauce to penetrate the meat without making it soggy. • Cook in Batches: If you have a lot of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure even browning. This avoids steaming and enhances that crispy texture you desire from the scallion chicken. • Perfect the Heat: Medium-high heat is key. Too low, and the chicken will steam instead of fry; too high, and you risk burning the sauce. • Fresh Scallions: Use both the white and green parts for the best flavor. The white parts add a savory depth, while the green parts give a fresh crunch. • Avoid Clumping: When using corn starch in the marinade, make sure to mix it in well. This prevents clumps from forming and helps achieve a smooth sauce that clings to the chicken. • Customize It: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Add extra veggies or switch up the protein to keep things exciting while enjoying your scallion chicken. What to Serve with Quick and Flavorful Scallion Chicken Savoring scallion chicken is a joyous experience, made even better when paired with complementary dishes that round out your meal. Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant grains soak up the savory sauce, balancing the dish beautifully. Perfect for a classic pairing! Garlic Stir-Fried Broccoli: Adding vibrant green broccoli brings a fresh crunch and a pop of color, elevating the overall meal’s health quotient. Sesame Noodles: These slightly sweet and nutty noodles create a delightful contrast to the savory chicken, making each bite utterly satisfying. Crispy Egg Rolls: Golden and crispy, these rolls filled with vegetables are an irresistible side that adds texture and a satisfying crunch to the table. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy dressing brings a cooling effect, enhancing the overall dining experience with its lightness. Hot Green Tea: Sip on a comforting cup of hot green tea to cleanse your palate, its warm notes perfectly complementing the rich flavors of scallion chicken. Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat provides a luscious finale, contrasting wonderfully with the savory main course. With these delicious sides, you can transform your scallion chicken into a memorable feast that leaves everyone at the table smiling. Storage Tips for Scallion Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the scallion chicken fresh while maintaining its flavor and texture. Freezer: If you want to save it for later, scallion chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat the chicken on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Make Ahead Options These Scallion Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch up to 24 hours in advance. Simply place the coated chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate to enhance the flavors while preventing browning. If you prefer, you can also chop the scallions and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the oil, cook the marinated chicken, add the scallions, and enjoy a homemade meal that’s just as delicious as if it were freshly made! Scallion Chicken Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken is best for scallion chicken? Absolutely! I recommend using chicken thighs for their richness and tenderness. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts can work as well, but they tend to be drier than thighs. How do I store leftover scallion chicken? You can store leftover scallion chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness! Can I freeze scallion chicken? Yes, you can! To freeze scallion chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. What should I do if my chicken is tough after cooking? If your scallion chicken ends up tough, it might be due to overcooking. Make sure to cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) but no longer. To tenderize it, you could try marinating it longer next time or cutting into smaller bite-sized pieces. Is scallion chicken suitable for people with dietary restrictions? Yes, scallion chicken can be tailored to various dietary needs! If you’re gluten-sensitive, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. For a vegetarian option, swap chicken for firm tofu or seitan and maintain the same marinade and cooking steps for a delightful experience! How can I elevate the flavor of scallion chicken? For an even deeper flavor, you might try adding a teaspoon of sugar or honey during the marination process. It enhances the sweetness of the scallions and balances the saltiness of the sauces. Additionally, feel free to toss in some colorful veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and a pop of color! Savory Scallion Chicken: Quick, Juicy, and Flavorful Delight No ratings yet This quick Scallion Chicken is a savory masterpiece, perfect for busy weeknights, combining chicken thighs with delightful sauces and scallions. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AsianCalories: 360 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound chicken thighs substitute with chicken breast for a leaner option1 tablespoon corn starch use less for a lighter sauceFor the Sauce3 tablespoons soy sauce tamari is a gluten-free alternative1 tablespoon dark soy sauce omitted if not available2 tablespoons oyster sauce swap with mushroom sauce for vegetarian1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder adjust according to spice preferenceFor the Vegetables4 stalks scallions (green onions) use both white and green parts1 tablespoon oil non-stick oils like vegetable or canola Equipment Non-stick panMixing Bowl Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Scallion ChickenBegin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch. Ensure all pieces are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.In a non-stick pan, pour in a tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer; cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until cooked through.Once the chicken is golden brown, introduce the white parts of the scallions to the pan. Stir them in and let the flavors meld for 1-2 minutes.Add the green parts of the scallions and toss everything together for an additional 10-20 seconds. Remove the pan from heat.Transfer the scallion chicken to a serving platter, and sprinkle with extra black pepper if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesMarinate the chicken for 10 minutes for best flavor; cook in batches for even browning and avoid clumping with corn starch. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
