Delicious Scallion Chicken Ready in 20 Minutes or Less

Name: Delicious Scallion Chicken Ready in 20 Minutes or Less
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (Can substitute with chicken breasts); 2 tblsp Soy Sauce (Use tamari for gluten-free); 2 tblsp Dark Soy Sauce (Adjust salt if using regular soy sauce); 2 tblsp Oyster Sauce (Use mushroom sauce for vegan alternative); 4 tblsp Oil (Use neutral oils like vegetable or canola); 2 tblsp Corn Starch (Creates a glossy coating); 0.5 tsp Black Pepper Powder (Adjust to taste); 5 pieces Scallions (Use both white and green parts, freshly chopped)

Hi I'm Melany

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on August 18, 2025

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The aroma wafting from the kitchen reminded me of bustling street markets in Asia, where every dish is a story waiting to be told. Today, I’m inviting you to create your own tale with my Quick and Flavorful Scallion Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a savory sauce, with the bright pop of scallions adding a delightful twist. Perfect for those busy weeknights, this meal comes together in just 20 minutes—talk about a quick win! Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also diabetic-friendly and low-calorie, proving that you can enjoy delicious homemade meals without guilt. Are you ready to bring the flavors of Asia to your dinner table?

Why is Scallion Chicken a Must-Try?

Quick Preparation: This dish is perfect for busy nights, whipping up in just 20 minutes. Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank. Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of rich sauces and fresh scallions brings a delightful burst of flavor. Versatile Options: Feel free to add colorful veggies or switch proteins for a personalized twist. Pair it with Garlic Chicken Gnocchi for a wholesome feast! Whether you’re a home cook or a seasoned chef, this scallion chicken will surely impress your family and friends.

Scallion Chicken Ingredients

• Discover the key ingredients for your flavorful dish!

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – A juicy protein source that retains moisture during cooking; feel free to swap with chicken breasts, adjusting cooking time as necessary.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – This provides delectable umami and saltiness; a great substitute for gluten-free diets is tamari.
Dark Soy Sauce – Adds richness and a beautiful color; if you don’t have dark soy sauce, use more regular soy sauce but adjust the salt to taste.
Oyster Sauce – Enhances the dish’s umami flavor; for a vegan alternative, consider using mushroom sauce.

For Cooking

Oil (4 tbsp) – Essential for cooking to prevent sticking; opt for neutral oils like vegetable or canola for best results.
Corn Starch (2 tbsp) – Helps create a glossy coating for the chicken; this is crucial to achieve that delightful texture.

For Flavor

Black Pepper Powder (½ tsp) – Adds the perfect touch of spice; adjust quantity based on your preference.
Scallions – Use both the white and green parts to add an onion-like flavor and an inviting color to your scallion chicken; freshly chopped adds a lovely crunch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Scallion Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors while you prepare the scallions, ensuring that the dish will be bursting with taste.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat, ensuring it’s hot enough to sizzle when the chicken is added. Carefully place the marinated chicken thighs in the pan and pan-fry for about 8-10 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through, cooking until the exterior is golden brown and no pink remains inside.

Step 3: Add Scallions
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the white parts of the scallions into the pan. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will soften the scallions and infuse their flavor into the scallion chicken, giving it an aromatic, delightful scent. You may cover the pan if using thicker chicken pieces to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Finish Dish
After the scallions have softened, add the green parts and quickly stir for an additional 10-20 seconds. This quick step will maintain the vibrant color and freshness of the scallions. Serve your scallion chicken hot over a bed of rice or noodles, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Variations & Substitutions for Scallion Chicken

Customize your scallion chicken with these exciting twists and flavor enhancements to create the perfect dish for your taste buds!

Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for vibrant color and extra nutrients. These veggies not only add crunch but also enrich the flavor profile and make for a more satisfying meal.
Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken thighs for pork, beef, or tofu for a different taste experience. Each protein brings its own unique flavor and texture while still pairing beautifully with the savory sauces.
Dairy-Free: Replace oyster sauce with a homemade mixture of tamari and maple syrup to keep flavors rich without dairy. This adjustment keeps the dish inclusive for those with dietary restrictions.
Spice Level Boost: Add crushed red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños for a spicy kick, turning your dish into a vibrant explosion of heat and flavor. Adjust according to your preference for a mild or fiery experience!
Crispy Chicken: For an extra crispy texture, try breading the chicken thighs before frying. A simple coating of panko breadcrumbs will elevate the crunch factor, creating an irresistible bite.
Umami Deepening: Incorporate a splash of fish sauce or a sprinkle of black garlic powder while cooking for an added dimension of umami. These ingredients amplify the dish’s savory notes, making every bite delectable.
Sweet Twist: Drizzle a little honey or agave syrup at the end of cooking for a sweet contrast against the savory base. This will create a wonderful balance that dances on your palate.
Serving Suggestions: This scallion chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even zoodles for a low-carb option. Consider trying it alongside Cheesy Chicken Stuffed for a heartier meal or Garlic Butter Chicken pasta to switch it up completely!

Expert Tips for Scallion Chicken

Marination Time Matters: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes helps infuse more flavor into each bite. Don’t skip this step!
Watch the Heat: Keep your pan at medium heat to avoid burning the corn starch coating. Too high can lead to a crispy outside but raw inside.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh scallions for the best flavor and crunch. Wilted or dried scallions will not deliver the vibrant taste this scallion chicken deserves.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary—overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of frying, making it less flavorful.
Stirring Technique: Stir gently when adding scallions to maintain their integrity; you want them soft with a slight crunch, not mushy!
Serving Suggestions: Pair this scallion chicken with steamed vegetables or a light salad to complete your meal, balancing flavors and textures beautifully.

What to Serve with Scallion Chicken

Transform your homemade scallion chicken into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings that elevate your meal experience.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, creating a comforting base that complements the chicken perfectly.
Garlic Stir-Fried Broccoli: The crunch of fresh broccoli tossed in garlic adds a vibrant green contrast, bringing both nutrition and color to your plate. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.
Crispy Egg Rolls: The crunch of egg rolls makes for an irresistible appetizer. Stuffed with veggies or shrimp, they provide a delightful contrast to the tender scallion chicken.
Sesame Noodles: These cold, nutty noodles offer a refreshing bite alongside your warm dish. Drizzled with sesame oil and topped with scallions, they echo the flavors of the chicken seamlessly.
Cucumber Salad: A simple side of crisp cucumbers dressed in a light vinegar sauce offers a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the chicken, balancing your meal beautifully.
Chilled Green Tea: Sip on this light, refreshing drink that aids digestion and complements the bold flavors of your meal. Serve it iced for a lovely accompaniment.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious scallion chicken recipes are a true lifesaver for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring maximum flavor absorption. Simply mix the chicken with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and corn starch, then cover and refrigerate. Additionally, you can chop the scallions and refrigerate them separately for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and crunch. When you’re ready to cook, heat oil in a non-stick pan, add the marinated chicken, and proceed with the recipe as usual. This way, you’ll have a quick, homemade meal that doesn’t compromise on taste—perfect for busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Scallion Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help retain the delicious flavors and keep the chicken juicy.
Freezer: If you have extra scallion chicken, freeze it in a resealable bag, removing as much air as possible, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a non-stick pan over low heat, ensuring even heating and preserving the dish’s texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Airtight Storage: For best results, always use airtight containers to keep the scallion chicken fresh and flavorful, free from freezer burn or contaminants.

Scallion Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using chicken thighs as they retain moisture during cooking, providing a tender and juicy texture. If chicken breasts are your preference, they can be used as a substitute, but be aware that cooking times may vary as breasts tend to cook faster.

How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the scallion chicken fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready for a delicious meal again, simply reheat it in a non-stick pan over low heat to maintain texture.

Can I freeze scallion chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, transfer any leftover scallion chicken into a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored like this for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a pan.

What if my chicken doesn’t seem cooked through?
Very good question! Always check that there’s no pink remaining in the chicken and that juices run clear. If you’re using larger pieces of chicken, you may need to extend the cooking time by a few minutes. Covering the pan can also help ensure even cooking throughout.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Certainly! This scallion chicken is low-calorie and diabetic-friendly. However, if you have allergies, be cautious with ingredients like soy sauce and oyster sauce, as they contain gluten and shellfish respectively. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and consider a mushroom sauce in place of oyster sauce. Always review labels if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.

How can I tell if the scallions are fresh enough to use?
The more the merrier! Fresh scallions should be firm, bright green, and free of dark spots. If they appear wilted or limp, it’s best to skip them for this recipe. The white parts should be crisp, while the green tops should be vibrant and ready to add that pop of flavor to your scallion chicken!