The enticing aroma of scallions and tender chicken sizzling together is enough to whet anyone’s appetite. On those hectic weeknights when dinner plans seem daunting, I turn to this quick and flavorful scallion chicken recipe that you can whip up in less than 20 minutes. Imagine succulently marinated chicken thighs, bursting with savory flavor, nestled alongside the sweet crunch of fresh scallions. It’s a meal that effortlessly combines simplicity and taste, proving that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a low-calorie option or a diabetic-friendly feast, this scallion chicken can easily be tailored to meet your dietary needs—all without sacrificing flavor! So, grab your skillet and let’s dive into a recipe that will soon become a weeknight staple in your kitchen.
Why is Scallion Chicken a Must-Try?
Quick preparation: This recipe is ready in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Bold flavors: The combination of succulent chicken and aromatic scallions creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to meet your dietary preferences, whether you’re low-calorie, gluten-free, or vegetarian.
One-pan convenience: Enjoy the ease of cooking everything in just one pan, minimizing cleanup time while maximizing flavor.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that is sure to impress family and friends alike!
Scallion Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
• Chicken thighs – Provide richness and tenderness; substitute with chicken breast for a leaner option.
• Soy sauce – Offers umami richness; use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) for a GF option.
• Dark soy sauce – Adds deeper color and sweetness; adjust quantity if using regular soy sauce.
• Black pepper powder – Adds mild heat; freshly ground is preferred for better flavor.
• Corn starch – Coats chicken and thickens sauce; can replace with arrowroot starch for a gluten-free alternative.
For Cooking
• Oil – Essential for pan-frying; substitute with any neutral oil like vegetable or canola.
• Scallions (green onions) – Provide a sweet onion flavor; use chives if unavailable.
For Flavor Enhancement
• Oyster sauce – Enhances flavor complexity; replace with mushroom sauce for a vegetarian option.
How to Make Scallion Chicken
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Prepare Chicken: In a bowl, mix chicken thighs with soy sauces, black pepper, and corn starch. Let the chicken marinate for 10 minutes to soak in all those delicious flavors.
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Cook Chicken: Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken to the pan, frying until fully cooked and golden brown, around 6-8 minutes.
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Add Scallions: Toss in the white parts of the scallions, cooking until they soften, about 2-3 minutes. If using larger chicken pieces, cover the pan to ensure thorough cooking.
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Finish Dish: Stir in the green parts of the scallions, cooking for another 10-20 seconds until just wilted. Serve hot over rice or noodles, and feel free to garnish with extra scallions or a sprinkle of pepper if desired.
Optional: For added crunch, serve with a side salad.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Scallion Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover scallion chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze scallion chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, ensuring chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Room Temperature: For best quality, avoid leaving scallion chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Make Ahead Options
These Scallion Chicken meal prep options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the soy sauces, black pepper, and corn starch up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse for maximum taste. Simply store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the scallions ahead of time and keep them in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the oil and cook the marinated chicken, adding scallions in the final moments to keep them fresh and vibrant. This prep method ensures your Scallion Chicken will taste just as delicious while streamlining your cooking process!
What to Serve with Scallion Chicken?
Picture your kitchen filled with tantalizing aromas as you prepare your scallion chicken. Now, let’s elevate that delicious dish into a full meal experience with some perfect pairings.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, balancing the bold flavors of the chicken.
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Sauteed Broccoli: Vibrant green florets add a crisp texture and nutritional boost, complementing the tender chicken and sweet scallions. A drizzle of soy sauce enhances this vibrant side.
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Garlic Noodles: With their rich, savory flavor, garlic noodles provide a satisfying contrast to the delicate flavor of scallion chicken. They’re sure to bring everyone back for seconds.
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Cucumber Salad: The cool crunch of a refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar offers a refreshing contrast to the savory dish. This brightens each bite and aids in digestion.
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Sesame Green Beans: Slightly sweet and nutty, sesame green beans add a lovely crunch and pair beautifully with scallion chicken, enhancing the umami experience.
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Chilled Sake: Enjoy a glass of chilled sake to complement the flavors of your meal. Its subtle sweetness and smooth finish make it a perfect drink choice for your Asian-inspired dinner.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, indulge in mango sticky rice, which delivers a delightful sweet finish to your meal. The creamy coconut complements the savory chicken beautifully.
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Steamed Dumplings: These savory pockets can be a delightful appetizer that leads into your main dish. Filled with pork or vegetables, they’re sure to please!
Scallion Chicken Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this flavorful dish and create a meal that’s uniquely yours!
- Dairy-Free: Replace any marinades that contain dairy with coconut aminos or additional soy sauce for a delicious, creamy alternative.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during cooking for extra color, nutrition, and crunch. This adds a vibrant twist that enhances the meal’s visual appeal.
- Spicy Kick: Add fresh sliced chili or red pepper flakes to the marinade or during cooking to elevate the heat level. A little warmth can turn up the excitement!
- Alternative Protein: Substitute chicken with thinly sliced pork, beef, or tofu for a twist on the classic. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
- Sweet Glaze: Drizzle in honey, maple syrup, or a touch of brown sugar when adding scallions for a lovely sweet and savory balance that dances on the palate.
- Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh ginger or garlic into the marinade for vibrant, aromatic flavors. This combo upgrades the depth of taste beautifully.
- Lighten Up: Use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a lower-fat version while still keeping the dish juicy and tender.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free soy sauce and ensure any other condiments are also free from gluten for a delightful gluten-free experience without sacrificing taste.
Expert Tips for Scallion Chicken
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Marinade Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes to maximize flavor absorption, ensuring your scallion chicken is succulent and tasty.
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Non-Stick Essential: Use a non-stick pan to avoid any sticking issues with the corn starch coating. This guarantees a lovely golden-brown finish.
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Check Doneness: Always confirm chicken is fully cooked with a meat thermometer, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and tenderness.
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Customize Flavor: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Add ginger or garlic to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor in your scallion chicken.
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Saucier Dish Option: If you like a saucier dish, you can add a splash of extra soy sauce or broth while cooking to create a luscious glaze.
Scallion Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken works best for scallion chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe because they offer richness and tenderness. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work well too. For those looking to switch things up, boneless pork can provide a delightful variation in flavor.
How should I store leftover scallion chicken?
Very simple! Store leftover scallion chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve its flavor and ensures it stays fresh for your next delicious meal. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warm.
Can I freeze scallion chicken?
Definitely! To freeze, place your scallion chicken in a freezer-safe container, making sure it’s sealed tightly. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving—it’s as easy as that!
What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
Don’t worry! If you find that your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, try covering the pan after adding the scallions. This allows for more even heat distribution. Additionally, cut the chicken into smaller pieces to ensure quicker cooking throughout. Just keep an eye on the internal temperature to reach that safe 165°F.
Are scallions safe for pets?
Great question! While scallions are delicious for humans, they can be harmful to pets, especially dogs and cats, as they belong to the allium family. If your furry friend happens to sneak a bite, it’s best to consult your veterinarian, just to be safe.
Can I adjust this recipe for a low-carb diet?
Absolutely! For a low-carb option, serve your scallion chicken with crisp lettuce wraps instead of rice or noodles; this not only cuts down on carbs but adds a refreshing crunch. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added volume without the carbs!
Savory Scallion Chicken Ready in 20 Minutes or Less!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix chicken thighs with soy sauces, black pepper, and corn starch. Let the chicken marinate for 10 minutes.
- Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken to the pan, frying until fully cooked and golden brown, around 6-8 minutes.
- Toss in the white parts of the scallions, cooking until they soften, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the green parts of the scallions, cooking for another 10-20 seconds until just wilted. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
