Easy Chinese Scallion Chicken: A Simple Recipe

I have so many fond memories of ordering Chinese takeout with my family, and Chinese Scallion Chicken was always a favorite. I’ve spent years perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited to share it with you!

This dish is packed with flavor, incredibly quick to make, and takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Let’s get cooking with this easy Chinese Scallion Chicken!

Emily

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Easy Chinese Scallion Chicken: A Simple Recipe

I have so many fond memories of ordering Chinese takeout with my family, and Chinese Scallion Chicken was always a favorite. I’ve spent years perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited to share it with you!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Chinese

Calories: 738

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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• 400 g Chicken thighs cut into small pieces
• 2 cup scallion chopped
• 4 tablespoon oil
• 2 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder more or less to your liking
• 2 tablspoon corn starch

Equipment

• non-stick pan
• wok
• cast-iron skillet
• bamboo spatula

Method

 

1. Step One: Preparing – Mix the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, pepper and corn starch, then marinate for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, cut the scallions, separating the white parts from the green parts.
2. Step Two: Pan frying chicken – Add the chicken pieces to a non-stick pan with oil over medium heat, and pan fry until fully cooked.
3. Step three: Adding scallions – Add the white parts of the scallions to the chicken and cook until softened. If you’re using larger chicken pieces or pieces with bones, cover the pan with a lid and cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Finally, add the green parts of the scallions and stir for 10-20 seconds to cook them.
4. Step Four: serving – Sprinkle more pepper powder or scallions if desired and serve with rice or noodles.

Nutrition

Calories: 738kcal

Notes

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Chinese Scallion Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

• Ensuring Chicken is Cooked Through: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Preventing the Sauce from Becoming Too Salty: Be mindful of the amount of soy sauce you add. If it seems too salty, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
• Adjusting Sweetness Levels: If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a touch of honey or sugar to the sauce. Taste and adjust as needed.
• Optimal Pan Type for Even Cooking: I recommend using a non-stick wok or a large skillet for even cooking. A wok is great for stir-frying because its shape helps to distribute heat evenly.

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Why You’ll Love This Chinese Scallion Chicken

I know there are tons of recipes out there, but I think you’ll find this one is special. Here’s why I think you’ll love it:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Simple Marinade: Uses pantry staples for an easy and flavorful marinade.
• Authentic Flavors: Delivers that classic Chinese Scallion Chicken taste you crave.
• Minimal Cleanup: Made in one pan for easy cleanup.

What is Chinese Scallion Chicken? (Cultural Significance)

Chinese Scallion Chicken is a flavorful and popular dish that highlights the aromatic qualities of scallions. It features tender pieces of chicken coated in a savory sauce, elevated by the fresh, slightly pungent taste of scallions. What sets it apart is the generous use of scallions, both the white and green parts, which infuse the dish with a unique and refreshing taste.

It’s a beloved dish because it’s simple, comforting, and bursting with flavor, showcasing the magic of simple ingredients combined skillfully. While I don’t have exact historical details about its origin, its popularity stems from its delicious simplicity and accessibility in many Chinese restaurants.

Key Ingredients for the Best Chinese Scallion Chicken

To make the best Chinese Scallion Chicken, it’s all about using the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need.

Ingredients

• 400 g Chicken thighs (cut into small pieces)
• 2 cup scallion (chopped)
• 4 tablespoon oil
• 2 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder (more or less to your liking)
• 2 tablspoon corn starch

Understanding the Ingredients: A Deeper Dive

Let’s break down each ingredient and talk about why it’s so important.

• Types of Soy Sauce: I use both soy sauce and dark soy sauce in this recipe. Soy sauce adds a salty, umami flavor, while dark soy sauce gives the chicken a richer color and slightly sweeter taste. If you can’t find dark soy sauce, you can substitute with a touch of molasses or just use more regular soy sauce. I recommend using a high-quality brand like Kikkoman for the best flavor.
• Scallion Prep: It’s important to separate the white and green parts of the scallions because they cook at different rates. The white parts are added earlier to infuse the oil with their flavor, while the green parts are added at the end to retain their fresh taste and vibrant color. I like to slice the white parts thinly and chop the green parts into slightly larger pieces.
• Chicken Cut Options: I prefer using chicken thighs because they are more flavorful and stay juicy during cooking. You can also use chicken breast, but be careful not to overcook it. Chicken tenders are another great option, as they cook quickly and evenly. If using chicken breast or tenders, reduce the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out.
  For another great chicken recipe, check out this Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken recipe.

How to Make Chinese Scallion Chicken: Step-by-Step

Now for the fun part: cooking! Follow these steps carefully, and I promise you’ll end up with a delicious plate of Chinese Scallion Chicken.

Instructions

• Step One: Preparing – Mix the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, pepper and corn starch, then marinate for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, cut the scallions, separating the white parts from the green parts.
• Step Two: Pan frying chicken – Add the chicken pieces to a non-stick pan with oil over medium heat, and pan fry until fully cooked.
• Step three: Adding scallions – Add the white parts of the scallions to the chicken and cook until softened. If you’re using larger chicken pieces or pieces with bones, cover the pan with a lid and cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Finally, add the green parts of the scallions and stir for 10-20 seconds to cook them.
• Step Four: serving – Sprinkle more pepper powder or scallions if desired and serve with rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfect Chinese Scallion Chicken

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Chinese Scallion Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

• Ensuring Chicken is Cooked Through: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Preventing the Sauce from Becoming Too Salty: Be mindful of the amount of soy sauce you add. If it seems too salty, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
• Adjusting Sweetness Levels: If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a touch of honey or sugar to the sauce. Taste and adjust as needed.
• Optimal Pan Type for Even Cooking: I recommend using a non-stick wok or a large skillet for even cooking. A wok is great for stir-frying because its shape helps to distribute heat evenly. If you’re looking for more dinner inspiration, browse these main dishes.

Serving Suggestions for Chinese Scallion Chicken

While rice or noodles are classic pairings, I have a few more ideas to elevate your meal:

• Vegetable Pairings: Stir-fried bok choy or garlic green beans make a refreshing and healthy side.
• Side Dishes: Serve with crispy egg rolls or refreshing spring rolls.
• Complementary Sauces: A drizzle of chili garlic sauce or sesame oil adds an extra layer of flavor.

Variations on Chinese Scallion Chicken

Here are a few ways you can change up the recipe:

Storing and Reheating Chinese Scallion Chicken

Store leftover Chinese Scallion Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can pan-fry it over medium heat or microwave it. To prevent the chicken from drying out, add a tablespoon of water to the pan while reheating.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a few solutions to common problems:

• Chicken is Dry: Add a tablespoon of water to the pan during reheating.
• Sauce is Too Salty: Add a pinch of sugar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Scallions are Burnt: Add the scallions later in the cooking process.

Equipment Recommendations

For the best results, I recommend using a non-stick wok or a cast iron skillet. A bamboo spatula is also great for stir-frying, as it won’t scratch your pan and allows you to easily toss the ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

I hope you’ll agree that making delicious Chinese Scallion Chicken at home is easier than you thought. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that rivals your favorite takeout. Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments below! I love hearing about your cooking adventures and answering any questions you may have.

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