Scallion Chicken

Scallion chicken is a vibrant, aromatic dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with the crisp, fresh flavor of scallions. This dish is a staple in many Asian cuisines, often celebrated for its simplicity and versatility. Featuring a perfectly balanced sauce with savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich notes, scallion chicken is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. Whether served over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables, this recipe delivers a satisfying, healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Combines tender chicken with aromatic scallions for a flavorful dish.
• Versatile—serve it over rice, noodles, or as a low-carb option.
• Naturally gluten-free with simple substitutions, making it suitable for various diets.
• The sauce is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors.
• Minimal ingredients and cleanup for stress-free cooking.
• Customizable to your spice preference by adding chili or peppercorns.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving size: 1 cup

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 310
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
• ¼ cup chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 bunch scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces (separate white and green parts)
• 1 small onion, sliced (optional)
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes or Sichuan peppercorns (optional, for heat)

Optional Garnishes:

• Sesame seeds
• Extra chopped scallions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

• In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix well to coat evenly and let marinate for 10–15 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.

2. Prepare the Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Set aside.

3. Sear the Chicken

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Sauté Aromatics and Scallions

• In the same skillet, heat the remaining oil. Add garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the scallions. Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. If using onions, add them now and cook until translucent.

5. Add the Sauce and Chicken

• Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet, stirring to coat the aromatics. Let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened. Return the chicken to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.

6. Add the Green Scallions

• Toss in the green parts of the scallions and stir-fry for an additional 1–2 minutes until just wilted but still vibrant.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and extra scallions if desired. Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or a side of vegetables.

Ingredient Background

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier, while chicken breasts are leaner and cook quicker. Both work well in this recipe.
• Scallions: The star ingredient, scallions add a mild onion flavor and a fresh, crisp texture. Use both the white and green parts for balanced flavor.
• Oyster Sauce: Provides a deep, savory umami flavor. Substitute with mushroom sauce for a vegetarian alternative.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the richness of the sauce.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty aroma that complements the scallions and chicken.

Technique Tips

• Slice the chicken into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
• Separate the white and green parts of the scallions for optimal texture and flavor.
• Sear the chicken in a single layer to achieve a golden crust before stir-frying.
• Stir the sauce before adding it to the pan to ensure the cornstarch is evenly distributed.
• Avoid overcooking the scallions to retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Serve scallion chicken in lettuce wraps for a low-carb, handheld meal.
• Plate the dish family-style on a large platter garnished with extra scallions and sesame seeds.
• Add the chicken and sauce to a bed of stir-fried noodles for a hearty, one-dish meal.

Additional Tips for Success

• To save time, prepare all ingredients in advance and have them ready to add during cooking.
• For added depth, toast the sesame seeds before sprinkling them as a garnish.
• Adjust the sweetness or acidity of the sauce to your taste by adding more honey or rice vinegar.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili flakes or add a splash of sriracha.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Scallion Stir-Fry: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and substitute oyster sauce with a vegetarian version.
• Beef and Scallions: Swap chicken for thinly sliced beef for a hearty variation.
• Seafood Twist: Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken for a lighter, seafood-inspired dish.
• Extra Veggies: Add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a colorful and nutrient-packed meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked scallion chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pro Tip: Freeze the chicken and sauce separately to retain the best texture and flavor upon reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use skinless chicken breast for a leaner protein option.
• Reduce sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce and broth.
• Substitute honey with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
• Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Casual Weeknight Dinner: Serve with steamed jasmine rice and a side of miso soup for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep: Divide into individual containers with rice or quinoa for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Dinner Party: Plate as part of an Asian-inspired menu with spring rolls, fried rice, and a refreshing cucumber salad.
• Potluck Dish: Double the recipe and serve in a warming dish for easy sharing at gatherings.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet or wok for stir-frying
• Mixing bowls for marinating chicken and preparing sauce
• Sharp knife for slicing chicken and scallions
• Wooden spoon or spatula for tossing ingredients

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make scallion chicken gluten-free?
   Yes! Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure other ingredients like oyster sauce are gluten-free.
2. What’s a good substitute for scallions?
   Leeks, chives, or finely sliced green onions can be used as alternatives.
3. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, but thaw it completely before marinating to ensure even cooking.
4. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
   Marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes and cook it quickly over high heat to retain moisture.
5. Is this dish spicy?
   The base recipe is mild, but you can add chili flakes, Sichuan peppercorns, or sliced chili for heat.
6. What can I serve with scallion chicken?
   Steamed rice, fried rice, stir-fried noodles, or a side of steamed vegetables are great pairings.
7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
   Yes, but add it to the skillet during the final steps to avoid overcooking.
8. How can I make this dish richer?
   Add a tablespoon of butter or a drizzle of sesame oil at the end for extra richness.

Conclusion

Scallion chicken is a deliciously simple dish that celebrates the fresh, aromatic flavors of scallions paired with tender chicken and a perfectly balanced sauce. Quick to prepare and versatile, this recipe is perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, scallion chicken is a surefire way to impress with its vibrant taste and easy preparation. Try it today and bring the delightful flavors of this classic Asian dish to your table!

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