If you’re searching for a quick, delicious, and flavor-packed dish, Scallion Chicken is the perfect recipe for you. This easy stir-fry features tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich, savory sauce and complemented by the bright, fresh taste of scallions. Not only does it come together in under 30 minutes, but it also requires minimal ingredients, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner looking for an effortless dish, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s highly adaptable—you can adjust the flavors, add spice, or even swap the protein for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
- Incredibly flavorful – A perfect balance of umami, savory, and fresh flavors.
- Uses pantry staples – No need for fancy ingredients.
- Versatile – Serve with rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps.
- Customizable – Easily adaptable for dietary preferences and personal taste.
Ingredients
- 400 g Chicken thighs (cut into small pieces) – Substitute with chicken breast for a leaner option.
- 2 cups Scallion, chopped – Use fresh for the best flavor.
- 4 tablespoons Oil – Any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil works great.
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce – Use low-sodium soy sauce for a less salty option.
- 1/2 tablespoon Dark soy sauce – Adds depth and color to the sauce.
- 1/2 tablespoon Oyster sauce – A rich umami boost.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper powder – Adjust to taste.
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch – Helps create a light crust on the chicken when frying.
Optional Substitutions
- For soy sauce: Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- For oyster sauce: Try mushroom sauce as a vegetarian-friendly substitute.
- For dark soy sauce: Can be omitted if unavailable; the dish will have a lighter color.
How to Make Scallion Chicken – Step by Step
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes while preparing the scallions. This quick marinade enhances the chicken’s flavor and helps create a light crust during cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Scallions
Chop the scallions, keeping the white and green parts separate. The white parts will be added earlier for depth of flavor, while the green parts provide a fresh finish.
Step 3: Pan-Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and fry until golden and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Add the Scallions
Once the chicken is cooked, add the white parts of the scallions and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, add the green parts and cook for 10-20 seconds just until wilted.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the scallion chicken to a serving dish, garnish with additional black pepper or scallions if desired, and serve hot with rice or noodles. Enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowls
- Non-stick skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as scallions lose their texture.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Version: Add red chili flakes or Sriracha for a heat kick.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Swap chicken for tofu and adjust cooking time.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in cashews or peanuts for added texture.
- Garlic Lover’s Twist: Add minced garlic to the stir-fry for more depth of flavor.
- Citrus Infusion: A splash of lime juice at the end brightens up the dish.
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your meal, serve Scallion Chicken with:
- Steamed White or Brown Rice – Classic and simple.
- Garlic Fried Rice – Adds even more flavor.
- Lo Mein or Rice Noodles – A great alternative to rice.
- Lettuce Wraps – A low-carb option that’s still delicious.
- Miso Soup – A light and comforting side dish.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works well but may be slightly drier than thighs. To keep it juicy, don’t overcook it.
What can I serve with scallion chicken?
Steamed white rice, fried rice, lo mein, or even lettuce wraps pair perfectly with this dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best taste and texture, cook fresh. If making ahead, store cooked chicken separately from scallions and reheat before serving.
How do I make this dish healthier?
- Use chicken breast instead of thighs.
- Reduce the oil used for frying.
- Swap soy sauce for a low-sodium alternative.
- Serve with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free or use a substitute.
Final Thoughts
Scallion Chicken is a fantastic dish for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make meal. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic scallions, and a savory sauce makes it a standout choice for any dinner. Try it today and let us know what you think!
