As the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow through my kitchen window, I often crave something simple yet bursting with flavor. That’s when I whip up this Quick Scallion Chicken, a dish I’ve come to rely on for those hectic weeknights. In under 20 minutes, you can have tender chicken thighs, perfectly satin-coated in a savory blend of scallions and sauces that dance on the palate. With minimal prep and a handful of ingredients, this recipe transforms your ordinary dinner into an Asian-inspired feast.
What I love most is its versatility—serve it over fluffy rice or al dente noodles for a hearty meal. And let’s not forget, it’s a budget-friendly option that’s low-calorie and diabetic-friendly, perfect for anyone looking to break free from the fast-food cycle. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into a deliciously satisfying culinary adventure that will leave both your taste buds and your wallet happy!
Why will you love this Scallion Chicken?
Quick and Easy: This recipe brings dinner to your table in just 20 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy nights.
Flavor Explosion: The savory blend of scallions, soy sauce, and oyster sauce creates a delicious umami kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it over rice or noodles, or even incorporate your favorite veggies for a colorful twist!
Low-Calorie Delight: Perfectly fitting into low-fat and diabetic-friendly diets, you’ll enjoy a satisfying meal without the guilt.
Budget-Friendly: With minimal ingredients needed, this recipe is easy on your wallet while still delivering robust flavors.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family meals or entertaining guests, this scallion chicken will impress everyone at your table!
Scallion Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken thighs – Juicy protein source; consider using skinless thighs for a leaner option.
• Corn starch – Used for marinating chicken to achieve a velvety texture; ensure it’s well mixed to prevent clumping.
For the Sauces
• Soy Sauce – Adds umami depth; low-sodium soy sauce can be a healthier alternative.
• Dark Soy Sauce – Provides color and a richer flavor profile; regular soy sauce can be used if dark is not available, but flavor will be lighter.
• Oyster Sauce – Enhances overall flavor; for a vegetarian alternative, use mushroom sauce.
For Cooking
• Oil – Used for frying; choose a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for best results.
• Black pepper powder – Adds spice; adjust based on personal preference and desired heat.
For the Vegetables
• Scallions – Provide a mild onion flavor with a touch of sweetness; substitute with green onions if unavailable.
How to Make Scallion Chicken
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Prep Chicken: Start by combining chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch in a bowl. It’s best to let it marinate for about 10 minutes to ensure each bite is packed with flavor.
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Cook Chicken: Heat a splash of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add your marinated chicken and stay attentive—fry until it’s fully cooked through and reaches a golden hue, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Scallions: Toss in the white parts of the scallions and let them cook until they become tender, around 2-3 minutes. If your scallions are thicker, cover the pan for thorough cooking. Finish by mixing in the green parts and stir for another 10-20 seconds.
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Serve: Once done, plate your scallion chicken and add a sprinkle of extra pepper or scallions if desired. Enjoy it over a bed of rice or noodles for a delightful meal!
Optional: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for an added nutritional boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Scallion Chicken?
Prepare to elevate your mealtime experience as you create a delightful spread to accompany this savory dish.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The soft, fragrant rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully, balancing the umami-rich chicken perfectly.
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Stir-Fried Veggies: A medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds vibrant color and crunch, enhancing the overall texture and nutritional profile.
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Garlic Noodles: These buttery, garlicky noodles are an indulgent twist that complements the scallion chicken’s bold flavors, creating a comforting harmony.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: With their fresh crunch and zesty dipping sauce, spring rolls provide a delightful contrast to the tender chicken, bringing excitement to each bite.
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Pickled Vegetables: A tangy, refreshing side of pickled cucumbers or radishes cuts through the richness, providing a bright contrast that refreshes the palate.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: This light salad brings a cooling effect, offering a crisp, refreshing note that enhances the warmth of the cooked chicken.
As you explore these pairings, remember that each option adds its own unique texture and flavor, making your scallion chicken meal truly unforgettable!
Scallion Chicken Variations
Embrace the creative side of cooking by customizing this delightful scallion chicken recipe to suit your tastes!
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Dairy-Free: Replace any sauces that might contain hidden dairy with coconut aminos or a simple homemade sauce for a creamy texture.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in sliced bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for added crunch and nutrition—colorful veggies bring not just flavor but visual appeal!
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Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and omit the oyster sauce to make a delicious meal that’s easier on the heart without compromising taste.
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Protein Swap: Substitute chicken thighs with firm tofu for a plant-based protein option that absorbs all the savory flavors beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or fresh sliced chilies into the mix for an engaging kick that elevates your scallion chicken to new spicy heights!
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Gluten-Free: Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce, ensuring all ingredients are gluten-free for a dish everyone can enjoy.
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Herb-Infused: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end for a bright burst of freshness that brightens the entire dish.
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Lemon Zest: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving to infuse a bright and zesty note, making each bite refreshingly tangy.
Expert Tips for Scallion Chicken
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Marinating Time Matters: Allow at least 10 minutes for the chicken to soak up the flavors. This enhances the depth of taste in your scallion chicken.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F/75°C. This prevents undercooking and keeps your dish safe and delicious.
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Non-Stick is Best: A non-stick pan helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up easier. It keeps your scallion chicken intact for beautiful presentation.
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Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers or broccoli during cooking. They not only add nutrition but also vibrant color to your scallion chicken.
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Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you like a saucy dish, consider adding a splash of chicken broth while cooking. This makes your chicken even more delectable.
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Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos and use gluten-free oyster sauce if needed. Enjoy a tasty scallion chicken everyone can relish!
Make Ahead Options
These Scallion Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh and delicious. Additionally, you can slice the scallions and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat oil in a pan, add the marinated chicken, and finish by tossing in the scallions during the last moments of cooking. This way, you’ll enjoy a meal that tastes just as good as if you made it fresh, with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Scallion Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the scallion chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals for a quick meal.
Flavor Tip: The scallion chicken can lose some flavor during freezing, so consider adding a splash of soy sauce or fresh scallions after reheating to refresh the taste!
Scallion Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe scallions?
Absolutely! When selecting scallions, look for vibrant green tops with firm, white bottoms. Avoid scallions that have wilted tops or are slimy, as these are signs of age. The fresher, the better!
What’s the best way to store leftover scallion chicken?
For fridge storage, place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. It’s crucial to let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain its texture.
Can I freeze scallion chicken, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze, let your cooked scallion chicken cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
What should I do if my scallion chicken is too salty?
If your dish turns out too salty, try adding a bit of cooked rice or noodles to absorb the excess saltiness. You can also squeeze in some lime juice or add a sprinkle of sugar to balance it out.
Can I make scallion chicken if I have a soy sauce allergy?
Absolutely! For those avoiding soy sauce, substitute it with coconut aminos for a similar flavor profile without the allergens. You can also use homemade sauces made from ingredients like tamari (if gluten-free) or simply skip the sauce for a lighter dish.
How can I add more vegetables to my scallion chicken?
To incorporate more veggies, simply add your favorite selections like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas as you cook the chicken. Aim for 2-3 cups of vegetables, and remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender but not mushy!
Savory Scallion Chicken Ready in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch in a bowl. Marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and fry until fully cooked through and golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the white parts of the scallions and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes. Mix in the green parts and stir for another 10-20 seconds.
- Plate your scallion chicken and add extra pepper or scallions if desired. Enjoy over rice or noodles.
