Name: Easy Scallion Chicken Ready in 20 Minutes for a Flavor Boost
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Thighs (Juicy protein choice that remains tender during cooking.); 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Packed with umami flavor; can use coconut aminos for a soy-free option.); 1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce (Adds depth and sweetness; recommended for richer taste.); 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce (Elevates flavor; replace with mushroom sauce for shellfish-free alternative.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Powder (Adjust to suit taste preferences.); 1 tablespoon Corn Starch (Aids in creating a light coating for marinade.); 2 tablespoons Oil (Any neutral oil like canola.); 4 scallions Scallions (Essential for that sweet onion flavor; can use green onions as substitute.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

After a long day, my kitchen often transforms into a sanctuary of soothing scents and deliciously vibrant flavors. Enter my Quick and Flavorful Scallion Chicken, a dish that magically unites tender chicken thighs with the sweet, aromatic embrace of scallions—ready in under 20 minutes! This recipe isn’t just about speed; it’s also delightfully budget-friendly and perfect for those nights when you crave something satisfying yet healthy. Imagine the joy of cooking a meal that not only evokes the rich essence of Asian cuisine but is also diabetic-friendly and low in calories. Curious how just a handful of ingredients can create a dinner your family will adore? Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe!

Why is Scallion Chicken a Must-Try?

Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when every minute counts.

Flavors of Asia: Savory, sweet scallions meld beautifully with the juicy chicken, creating an aromatic experience reminiscent of your favorite Asian restaurant.

Budget-Friendly Meal: Affordable ingredients make this scallion chicken an economical choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Health-Conscious Option: Low-calorie and diabetic-friendly, this recipe meets diverse dietary needs while ensuring you don’t compromise on taste.

Versatile Base: Pair with rice or noodles, add your favorite veggies, or switch proteins—this dish adapts beautifully to your preferences!

Explore the richness of Asian cuisine while enjoying this simple, delicious meal that’s destined to be a family favorite.

Scallion Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – A juicy protein choice that remains tender during cooking.
For the Marinade
• Soy Sauce – Packed with umami flavor; switch out for coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
• Dark Soy Sauce – Adds depth and sweetness; highly recommended for a richer taste.
• Oyster Sauce – Elevates flavor complexity; replace it with mushroom sauce for a shellfish-free alternative.
• Black Pepper Powder – For seasoning; adjust to suit your taste preferences.
• Corn Starch – Aids in creating a light coating for marinade; can be omitted for a lower-carb approach.
For Cooking
• Oil – Any neutral oil like canola works well for pan-frying.
For the Aromatic Boost
• Scallions – Essential for that sweet onion flavor; green onions can be used as a substitute.

Embark on a delicious journey with this Scallion Chicken recipe that’s not only quick and affordable but packs in flavor like no other!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Scallion Chicken

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature, which will enhance flavors and tenderize the meat while providing a nice sticky base for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare Scallions
While the chicken is marinating, wash and chop the scallions. Separate the white parts from the green parts, as they will be added at different stages of cooking. Aim for even slices; this will help them cook uniformly. Set the scallions aside on a cutting board for easy access when ready to cook the scallion chicken.

Step 3: Cook Chicken
Heat about 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the marinated chicken, ensuring it lays flat in a single layer. Cook for 7-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken reaches a golden brown color and internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Add Scallions
With the chicken nearly cooked, add the white parts of the scallions to the pan. Stir gently to combine, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the scallions soften and become fragrant. If using bone-in chicken, cover the pan with a lid to ensure even cooking while maintaining moisture in the meat.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
When the scallions are tender, stir in the green parts of the scallions and cook for another 10-20 seconds to retain their vibrant color and crunch. Remove the scallion chicken from heat and serve immediately over a bed of rice or tossed with noodles. Garnish with extra sliced scallions or a dash of black pepper if desired.

What to Serve with Quick and Flavorful Scallion Chicken

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance this quick and savory dish, turning it into a complete meal.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, this rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, balancing the dish’s flavors perfectly.
Sautéed Bok Choy: Tender and slightly crunchy, it adds a fresh green element while complementing the scallions’ sweet notes.
Garlic Fried Rice: A fragrant twist on classic rice, its buttery garlic flavor blends well with the chicken for an indulgent experience.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: Colorful veggies like bell peppers and snap peas create a vibrant plate that adds crunch and nutrition alongside the chicken. A delightful contrast!
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, it acts as a crunchy side that cools down the palate, balancing the rich flavors of the scallion chicken.
Chilled Green Tea: This light and soothing drink pairs elegantly, cleansing the palate while enhancing the meal’s Asian essence.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat provides a fruity contrast and a luscious finish, wrapping up your meal on a sweet note.
Sesame Ginger Dressing: Drizzling this over your veggies or rice adds a zesty kick, marrying the flavors seamlessly.

Craft these pairings to create a warm, inviting dinner that your family will adore and keep them asking for seconds!

Expert Tips for Scallion Chicken

Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken is fully cooked by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Non-Stick Success: Use a non-stick pan for cooking scallion chicken to prevent sticking, especially since corn starch helps create a coating.
Flavor Boost: For a richer sauce, consider deglazing the pan after cooking with a splash of broth or water, scraping up any browned bits.
Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a touch of sweetness, add a teaspoon of sugar or honey—but remember that scallions naturally caramelize as they cook.
Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to add colorful vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and a pop of color in your scallion chicken dish.

How to Store and Freeze Scallion Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture build-up.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the scallion chicken in a tight-fitting container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw the scallion chicken in the fridge overnight, then warm it in a non-stick pan over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving scallion chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain its safety and quality.

Make Ahead Options

These Quick and Flavorful Scallion Chicken is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld for an even richer taste. Simply combine the chicken with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the chopped scallions can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, follow the remaining steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under 20 minutes, just as fresh and flavorful as if made that day!

Scallion Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore exciting twists that will make this scallion chicken uniquely yours!

Pork Alternative: Swap in thinly sliced pork tenderloin for an equally flavorful protein that cooks quickly and pairs wonderfully with scallions.
Beef Delight: For a hearty change, substitute chicken with beef strips, marinating them just like you would with the chicken to keep that savory deliciousness intact.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and a delightful crunch, transforming this dish into a vibrant stir-fry.
Heat Factor: Spice things up by adding red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chilies while cooking, elevating the flavor profile for those who enjoy a spicier dish.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste.
Low-Carb Twist: For a lighter version, skip the corn starch and pan-fry the chicken without the coating while using a vegetable-based side, such as cauliflower rice.
Sweet & Savory: Incorporate a splash of honey or maple syrup during cooking for a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory notes and enhancing the overall flavor.
Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil towards the end of cooking for a fresh flavor burst that brightens the dish, creating a delightful fusion of tastes.

These variations can help you enjoy a delightful meal that resonates with your unique taste preferences. Discover more about enhancing your culinary adventures with flavor-infused recipes like this quick scallion chicken for a better dining experience!

Scallion Chicken Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for scallion chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are recommended because they remain juicy and tender during cooking. They’ll absorb that delicious marinade beautifully, making the dish flavorful and forgiving. If you’re out of thighs, chicken breast can work, but it may turn out a bit drier.

How should I store leftover scallion chicken?
Store your scallion chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled before sealing it to keep it fresh and prevent moisture build-up. When you reheat, just aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety!

Can I freeze scallion chicken?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, freeze the scallion chicken in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. It’s best to let it cool completely before you freeze it. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, and then reheat gently in a non-stick pan with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Why is my scallion chicken sticking to the pan?
Very! If scallion chicken sticks, it’s often due to using a pan that’s not properly coated. A non-stick pan is key here! Additionally, be sure to let the chicken marinate with corn starch, which helps create a coating that prevents sticking. If you find it’s still sticking, consider adding a bit more oil to the pan before cooking.

Is scallion chicken suitable for diabetics?
Yes! This scallion chicken recipe is diabetic-friendly due to its low-calorie count and simple, wholesome ingredients. The marinade uses soy sauce, which you can substitute for low-sodium options to further reduce sodium content. Be mindful of portion sizes and pair it with non-starchy vegetables to maintain balanced blood sugar levels.

What should I serve with scallion chicken?
The more the merrier! Scallion chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. For a nutritious boost, add colorful vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots. You can also sprinkle some sesame seeds or additional scallions on top for added flair and flavor!