Scallion Chicken

Scallion Chicken

Scallion Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken thighs and the fresh, mild bite of scallions, all enveloped in a savory Asian-inspired sauce. This quick and budget-friendly recipe is perfect for those seeking a flavorful meal without extensive preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this dish takes just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fresh scallions creates a harmonious blend of savory and aromatic notes.
  • Versatile: Pairs well with rice, noodles, or even a simple salad, allowing for flexible meal planning.
  • Minimal Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples and fresh produce, making it both accessible and economical.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 400 grams chicken thighs, cut into small pieces
  • 2 cups scallions (spring onions), chopped (white and green parts separated)
  • 4 tablespoons oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • ½ tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
  • ½ tablespoon oyster sauce
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper powder (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Directions

  1. Marinate the Chicken:

    • In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and cornstarch. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Scallions:

    • While the chicken is marinating, chop the scallions, keeping the white and green parts separate.
  3. Cook the Chicken:

    • Heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
    • Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, spreading them out in a single layer.
    • Cook the chicken until it is fully cooked through and lightly browned, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  4. Add Scallions:

    • Once the chicken is cooked, add the white parts of the scallions to the pan. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until they soften.
    • Add the green parts of the scallions and stir-fry for an additional 10-20 seconds until they are just wilted.
  5. Serve:

    • Transfer the Scallion Chicken to a serving dish.
    • Garnish with additional fresh scallions or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
    • Serve hot alongside steamed rice, noodles, or your preferred side dish.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 2
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

  • Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast, beef strips, or tofu for different protein options. Note that chicken breast may cook faster and can become dry if overcooked.
  • Additional Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms to add more texture and nutrition.
  • Spice Level: For a spicier kick, add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili oil during cooking.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make the dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Allow the Scallion Chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a non-stick pan over medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast; however, chicken thighs are preferred due to their juiciness and tolerance to longer cooking without drying out.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can omit it or use a vegetarian oyster sauce alternative.

Is dark soy sauce necessary?

Dark soy sauce adds color and a slightly caramelized flavor. If unavailable, you can omit it and use half the amount of regular soy sauce instead.

How can I make the dish sweeter?

Adding a small amount of sugar or honey during cooking can enhance the sweetness, complementing the savory flavors.

What type of oil is best for this recipe?

A neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil works well.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?

Using a non-stick pan and ensuring the pan and oil are adequately heated before adding the chicken can help prevent sticking.

Can I add garlic or ginger for extra flavor?

Absolutely. Adding minced garlic or ginger during cooking can enhance the dish’s flavor profile.

What side dishes pair well with Scallion Chicken?

Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables complement this dish nicely.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and can be included in meal prep plans.

Enjoy preparing and savoring this quick and


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Scallion Chicken

Scallion Chicken

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Scallion Chicken is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired stir-fry featuring tender chicken thighs and fresh scallions in a savory soy and oyster sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with rice or noodles.

  • Author: Ava
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Chinese
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 400g (14 oz) chicken thighs, cut into small pieces
  • 2 cups scallions (spring onions), chopped (white and green parts separated)
  • 4 tablespoons oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • ½ tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
  • ½ tablespoon oyster sauce
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

  1. In a bowl, mix chicken, soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and cornstarch.
  2. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

Prepare the Scallions:

  1. Chop scallions, keeping the white and green parts separate.

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Heat 4 tablespoons oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
  2. Add marinated chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).

Add Scallions:

  1. Add the white parts of the scallions and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the green parts and stir-fry for 10-20 seconds until just wilted.

Serve:

  1. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra scallions or black pepper.
  2. Serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or a side of stir-fried vegetables.

Notes

  • Protein Swap: Use chicken breast, beef strips, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken thighs.
  • Vegetable Add-Ins: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or snow peas for more texture.
  • Spicy Version: Add sliced chili peppers or chili oil while cooking.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

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