After a long day, the thought of whipping up something delicious can often feel daunting. But picture this: the sight of juicy chicken thighs sizzling in a hot pan, the irresistible aroma of soy sauce and scallions wafting through your kitchen, beckoning you to come closer. This Quick and Easy Scallion Chicken Stir-Fry is my go-to answer for hectic weeknights. It’s a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, all ready in under 20 minutes!
I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those evenings when nothing on the takeout menu appealed to me. The beauty of scallion chicken lies not just in its flavor, but in its versatility—it’s easily adaptable to whatever you have on hand, whether it’s swapping chicken for pork or loading it up with vibrant veggies. As soon as you take your first bite, you’ll know this dish is destined to become a weekly staple, satisfying cravings and bringing joy back to home-cooked meals. Let’s dive into this exciting recipe together!
Why is Scallion Chicken a must-try?
Quick prep: This dish comes together in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Bursting with flavor: An exciting blend of sweet and savory notes, with a punch of soy sauce and scallions.
Budget-friendly: Using just a few affordable ingredients, you’ll create a meal that tastes like takeout.
Versatile swaps: Easily substitute chicken with pork or tofu, letting you customize based on your pantry.
Crowd-pleaser: With its mild yet exciting flavor profile, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Healthy option: Low in calories and fat, it fits perfectly into diabetic and low-calorie diets, making it guilt-free comfort food.
Scallion Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken thighs – Main protein source that remains tender and juicy; substitute with pork or beef for a different flavor.
For the Sauce
- Soy sauce – Provides umami flavor; substitute with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Dark soy sauce – Enhances color and depth of flavor; regular soy can be used but offers a less intense taste.
- Oyster sauce – Acts as a flavor enhancer; swap with mushroom sauce if allergic to shellfish.
- Black pepper powder – Adds spiciness; adjust to taste according to your preference.
For Cooking
- Oil – Necessary for frying; can use vegetable, canola, or sesame oil for different flavors.
- Cornstarch – Helps to create a glossy coating on the chicken, enhancing the final appearance of the dish.
For the Vegetables
- Scallion – Adds both sweetness and onion flavor; include both the white and green parts for the best taste.
How to Make Scallion Chicken
- Prepare Marinade: Mix chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and cornstarch in a bowl. Allow them to marinate for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook Chicken: Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and pan-fry until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Add Scallions: Incorporate the white parts of the scallions into the pan. Sauté until softened, around 2-3 minutes, covering if using larger chicken pieces for even cooking.
- Finish Cooking: Stir in the green parts of the scallions for an additional 10-20 seconds, just until slightly wilted, adding vibrant color and freshness.
- Serve: Transfer the scallion chicken to a serving platter and sprinkle with extra pepper or scallions if desired. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Optional: Drizzle with a little sesame oil for added richness and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Scallion Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover scallion chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you’d like to extend its lifespan, freeze the scallion chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving scallion chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Scallion Chicken stir-fry components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the marinated chicken in an airtight container to keep it fresh and flavorful. The scallions can also be chopped ahead of time and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, cook the marinated chicken as per the instructions, adding the scallions just before serving for that fresh crunch. This way, you can enjoy a homemade dish that’s just as delicious on those busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Scallion Chicken
- Marinate Well: Ensure your chicken thighs marinate for at least 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply and enhances the overall taste of your scallion chicken.
- High Heat Cooking: Use medium-high heat when cooking to achieve a nice sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the chicken to steam rather than fry.
- Check for Doneness: Always confirm your chicken is cooked through to 165°F for safety. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, preventing undercooked chicken.
- Cornstarch Magic: Ensure the cornstarch is evenly coated on the chicken for that glossy finish. Avoid clumping by mixing thoroughly in the marinade.
- Customize Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers right after sautéing the chicken for additional nutrition and color while keeping the focus on your scallion chicken.
- Quick Serving Tip: For the best texture, serve immediately after cooking. This way, the chicken remains juicy and the scallions retain their vibrant crunch.
Scallion Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this dish truly yours with these delightful twists and swaps!
- Pork Alternative: Swap chicken thighs for boneless pork chops, giving a richer flavor with similar tenderness.
- Beef Delight: Use thinly sliced flank steak for a heartier option, marinating just as you would with chicken. It adds a different savory depth that’s simply irresistible.
- Tofu Twist: Crisp up some tofu for a vegetarian take; it soaks up flavor beautifully while offering a delightful texture contrast.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in vibrant veggies like bell peppers and snap peas for added color and nutrition. They bring a fresh crunch that’ll elevate every bite!
- Gluten-Free Boost: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a friendly gluten-free option that keeps the umami richness intact.
- Heat it Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to kick things up a notch; it’s a simple way to ignite flavor fireworks in your dish.
- Nutty Flavor: Drizzle with toasted sesame oil before serving for an extra layer of nutty goodness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Citrusy Zest: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving. This brightens the dish and complements the scallions in an exciting way!
What to Serve with Scallion Chicken?
Imagine a cozy dinner table adorned with colorful dishes that elevate your scallion chicken into a complete, satisfying meal experience.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A light and fluffy base that soaks up the savory sauce, complementing the dish perfectly.
- Garlicky Sautéed Broccoli: Adding a crunch and vibrant color, this healthy veggie balances the rich flavors of the chicken and offers extra nutrition.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites provide a delightful contrast to the tender scallion chicken, perfect for those who love a bit of crunch.
- Sesame Noodles: Tossed with a hint of sesame oil, these noodles enhance the Asian flair while uniquely pairing with the savory flavors of the chicken.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side with a touch of vinegar cuts through the richness, leaving your palate feeling clean and rejuvenated.
- Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Pair your meal with a light drink that complements the Asian flavors and enhances the overall dining experience.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, the sweet and creamy texture of this classic treats wraps up your meal on a perfect note, leaving everyone smiling.
Scallion Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best scallions for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for scallions that are bright green with firm white bulbs. Avoid any with dark spots or wilting leaves, as these are signs of age. The fresher the scallions, the more vibrant your dish will taste!
What is the best way to store leftover Scallion Chicken?
After enjoying your delicious scallion chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat them gently to keep that juicy texture!
Can I freeze Scallion Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze your scallion chicken, first let it cool to room temperature. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
What should I do if my scallions start to turn mushy?
If your scallions are becoming soft or mushy, it’s best to discard them. Fresh scallions should have a crisp texture. To help preserve them, store your scallions upright in a glass of water in the fridge—just like fresh flowers—and change the water every few days.
Is this recipe safe for people with shellfish allergies?
Definitely! If you have a shellfish allergy, simply substitute the oyster sauce with a mushroom-based sauce instead. This will provide a similar umami flavor without any shellfish ingredients. Always check labels for potential allergens, just to be safe.
How can I adjust the spice level in my Scallion Chicken?
If you’re looking to control the spice level, you can easily adjust the amount of black pepper powder in the marinade. Start with less and taste as you cook, adding more if desired. Also, consider adding milder vegetables like bell peppers if you’re serving it to kids or those sensitive to spice.
Flavorful Scallion Chicken Stir-Fry in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and cornstarch in a bowl. Allow them to marinate for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and pan-fry until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Incorporate the white parts of the scallions into the pan. Sauté until softened, around 2-3 minutes, covering if using larger chicken pieces for even cooking.
- Stir in the green parts of the scallions for an additional 10-20 seconds, just until slightly wilted.
- Transfer the scallion chicken to a serving platter and sprinkle with extra pepper or scallions if desired. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
