If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner, this Scallion Chicken recipe is the perfect choice! In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy tender chicken thighs cooked with fresh scallions and a savory sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re new to cooking or just need a simple, budget-friendly dish, this recipe checks all the boxes. The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients, including chicken thighs, scallions, soy sauce, and oyster sauce, to create a meal that tastes like it came from your favorite Chinese restaurant.
Scallion Chicken is a popular dish in Asian cuisine, where chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and tenderness. Scallions, or spring onions, add a sweet, oniony flavor that perfectly complements the savory and slightly caramelized sauce. This recipe is flexible, so it can be served over rice, noodles, or on its own for a high-protein meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, Scallion Chicken brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table in no time.
Why You Will Love Making This RecipeÂ
This Scallion Chicken recipe stands out for its simplicity and mouthwatering flavor. The tender chicken thighs are marinated in a rich mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and black pepper, giving them a deep, umami flavor that is irresistible. The scallions add a fresh crunch and a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor that perfectly balances the savory chicken.
Unlike chicken breast, which can dry out easily, chicken thighs stay juicy even after cooking. This makes them the perfect choice for quick dishes like this one, where you need a protein that holds up well under heat. The recipe is also very forgiving, meaning even if you’re not an experienced cook, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste. Want a bit more heat? Add some chili flakes. Prefer a sweeter flavor? A touch of honey or sugar will enhance the dish.
Another reason you’ll love this recipe is that it’s versatile. You can serve it over steamed rice, stir-fried noodles, or even enjoy it as a standalone dish for a low-carb meal. The cooking process is straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find, making it a go-to meal for any weeknight. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it not only delicious but also filling.
Ingredients:
- 400g chicken thighs (cut into small pieces)
- 2 cups scallions (chopped)
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Directions & InstructionsÂ
- Preparing the Chicken: Start by mixing the chicken thighs with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes. While the chicken marinates, chop the scallions, separating the white parts from the green parts.
- Cooking the Chicken: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add the oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown on all sides.
- Adding Scallions: Add the white parts of the scallions to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened. If using larger chicken pieces or bone-in thighs, cover the pan with a lid and cook a bit longer to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in the green parts of the scallions and cook for an additional 10-20 seconds to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serving: Once the scallions are tender and the chicken is well-cooked, sprinkle with extra black pepper or scallions if desired. Serve the scallion chicken with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Nutritional InformationÂ
This Scallion Chicken recipe provides a hearty and nutritious meal. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content:
- Calories: 738 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 37g
- Fat: 61g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 32g
- Cholesterol: 196mg
- Sodium: 1550mg
- Potassium: 743mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 1156 IU
- Vitamin C: 19mg
- Calcium: 96mg
- Iron: 3mg
This recipe is a good source of protein, making it a satisfying meal. The healthy fats from the chicken thighs also help keep you full, while the low-carb nature of the dish makes it suitable for many diets, including low-fat and diabetic-friendly options.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Try adding bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added crunch and nutrients.
- Use Chicken Breast: If you prefer leaner meat, you can substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breast, though it may require a shorter cooking time.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a bit of chili paste to introduce some heat to the dish.
Frequently Asked QuestionsÂ
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? While chicken breast can be used, chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and juiciness. If using chicken breast, be careful not to overcook it as it can become dry.
Can I make this ahead of time? This dish is best served immediately after cooking for optimal freshness. However, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve this with? Scallion chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried noodles, or even on its own for a low-carb meal.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Don’t skip marinating: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes helps enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- Adjust the heat: For a spicier kick, feel free to add chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce during cooking.
- Use a non-stick pan: It helps the chicken cook evenly without sticking, especially with the cornstarch coating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scallion chicken over a bowl of fluffy steamed rice or with a side of stir-fried noodles. Garnish with extra fresh scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick meal to impress guests.
