Flavorful Scallion Chicken Recipe – Quick & Easy Dinner Ideas

Hello and Welcome!

Hello and welcome, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a quick and delightful recipe that’s sure to bring joy to your dinner table—Scallion Chicken. Are you searching for a weeknight dinner that tastes like a weekend feast? This easy-to-make dish will elevate your meals with vibrant flavors. Think tender chicken, aromatic garlic and ginger, and the satisfying crunch of fresh scallions. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a comforting experience you’ll want to repeat!

Flavorful Scallion Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Tender and juicy, chicken thighs offer more flavor, while breasts are leaner. Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and even distribution.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: The salty, umami base for our marinade. Use low-sodium if you prefer.
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry/mirin): Adds depth and a subtle sweetness, crucial for authentic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch: This magic ingredient tenderizes the chicken and helps the sauce cling beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil: Aromatic and nutty, a little goes a long way to infuse deliciousness.
• Pinch of white pepper: Adds a gentle warmth without the visual flecks of black pepper.

For the Sauce and Aromatics

• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (like vegetable or canola): For stir-frying.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Pungent and essential for that aromatic base.
• 1 inch ginger, grated or minced: Adds a warming, zesty kick.
• 1 bunch scallions (about 6-8 stalks), white and green parts separated, cut into 2-inch pieces: The star! The white parts are milder and cook down, while the green parts provide a fresh, peppery bite.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce: For the sauce’s savory foundation.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a rich, complex umami flavor and a glossy sheen.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the saltiness and enhances other flavors.
• 2 tablespoons water or chicken broth: To loosen the sauce and create a delightful glaze.
• ½ teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water, for thickening): For a perfectly thickened, clingy sauce.

For Garnish

• Reserved green parts of scallions
• Optional: Toasted sesame seeds
• Optional: A drizzle of chili oil for heat

Timing is Everything

Compared to the average weeknight dinner that can hover around 45 minutes, this Scallion Chicken is a true time-saver. You’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes, perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence.

Crafting Your Scallion Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Begin by preparing your chicken. If using chicken breasts, ensure they are of a similar thickness for even cooking. Slice both thighs and breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook through quickly and evenly. Place the cut chicken into a medium bowl.

Step 2: Marinate for Flavor

To the bowl with the chicken, add the marinade ingredients: soy sauce, Shaoxing wine (or your chosen substitute), cornstarch, sesame oil, and white pepper. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring each piece of chicken is coated. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This is where the magic of tenderizing and flavor infusion begins!

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: 3 tablespoons soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water or chicken broth. In a separate tiny bowl, mix the ½ teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry; set this aside. This simple, harmonious blend will coat your chicken in savory goodness.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of the neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which steams rather than sears). Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Don’t wash the skillet!

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same skillet (no need to wipe it clean – those browned bits add flavor!). Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Then, add the white parts of the scallions and stir-fry for another minute until they begin to soften slightly.

Step 6: Combine and Simmer

Pour the prepared sauce mixture (the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and broth blend) into the skillet with the aromatics. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to stir until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze, about 1-2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Add the reserved green parts of the scallions to the skillet. Toss everything together for about 30 seconds to coat the chicken evenly in the luscious sauce and allow the scallions to slightly wilt but retain their vibrant color and fresh crunch. Serve immediately over steamed rice, garnished with extra scallion greens and optional sesame seeds or chili oil. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Nutritional Highlights

Please note that nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

• Calories: Approximately 300-400 per serving (depending on chicken cut and oil used)
• Protein: High, excellent source from chicken
• Carbohydrates: Moderate, primarily from cornstarch and sugar
• Fat: Moderate, from cooking oil and chicken thighs (if used)

Healthier Twists on Scallion Chicken

• Leaner Protein: Opt for chicken breast to reduce fat content.
• Reduced Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and be mindful of oyster sauce’s sodium levels.
• Less Oil: Use an air fryer or bake the chicken instead of stir-frying to significantly cut down on oil. You can also use a non-stick spray or a minimal amount of oil for sautéing aromatics.
• Thicker Sauce: Instead of a cornstarch slurry, you can reduce the sauce a bit longer on its own for a thicker consistency without added thickeners or use a vegetable broth base for more nutrients.
• More Veggies: Bulk up the dish with plenty of extra vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas for added fiber and nutrients.

Elevate Your Scallion Chicken Experience

This flavorful Scallion Chicken is incredibly versatile. For a complete meal, serve it piping hot over:

• Steamed Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice are classic pairings.
• Brown Rice or Quinoa: For a healthier, high-fiber option.
• Noodles: Lo mein, udon, or even thin spaghetti work beautifully.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative.

Consider adding a side of steamed or stir-fried greens like bok choy, broccoli, or asparagus to complete your balanced meal.

Avoid These Common Scallion Chicken Mistakes

• Overcrowding the Pan: This leads to steamed, not seared, chicken, resulting in less flavor and a less appealing texture. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Not Marinating Long Enough: The marinade tenderizes and infuses flavor. A minimum of 10 minutes is key.
• Burning the Aromatics: Garlic and ginger cook quickly. Sauté them on medium heat and be attentive.
• Adding Scallions Too Early: Adding all the scallions at the beginning will make them mushy. Reserve some green parts for a fresh finish.
• Sauce Too Thin: Ensure your cornstarch slurry is mixed well and added properly to achieve that desirable glossy glaze.

Keep Your Scallion Chicken Delicious

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems dry. While best enjoyed fresh, this dish holds up well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bring on the Flavor!

There you have it – a remarkably simple yet incredibly satisfying Scallion Chicken recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, aromatic inflections, and bright scallion finish, this dish is sure to become a fast favorite. Don’t hesitate to whip this up for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Happy cooking!