Hey there, it’s Jessy from The Savory Script! I’m always on the lookout for those weeknight dinner winners, the kind of recipes that pack a flavor punch without demanding hours in the kitchen.
That’s why I’m so excited to share my version of Chinese Scallion Chicken. It’s a dish that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to make, ready in just 20-25 minutes!
Table of Contents
Simple Chinese Scallion Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Follow these simple steps for a perfect dish every time:
- 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.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love This Chinese Scallion Chicken
Trust me, this isn’t just another chicken recipe. I really think you’ll love this one, because:
- It’s lightning-fast: From fridge to table in under 30 minutes? Yes, please!
- The flavor is authentic: A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and peppery, just like your favorite takeout.
- The ingredient list is short and sweet: No need to hunt down obscure ingredients; you probably have most of them already!
- It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser: Even picky eaters will be asking for seconds.
About Chinese Scallion Chicken
Chinese Scallion Chicken, also known as Cong You Ji (葱油鸡), is a beloved dish with roots in Chinese home cooking. While variations exist across different regions, the heart of the dish remains the same: tender chicken bathed in a fragrant scallion-infused sauce.
I still remember the first time I had this dish at a small family-run restaurant. The simplicity of the ingredients and the incredible depth of flavor completely won me over. I knew I had to recreate it at home.
Ingredients for Chinese Scallion Chicken
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this fantastic dish:
- 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
Ingredient Spotlight
Let’s talk about why each ingredient is important.
- Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce brings a salty, umami flavor, while dark soy sauce adds color and a hint of sweetness. The combination creates a balanced flavor profile.
- Oyster Sauce: If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, I recommend using hoisin sauce or mushroom soy sauce as substitutes. You can find oyster sauce in the Asian foods section of most grocery stores. This ingredient is key to achieving a rich, savory base for many Chinese stir-fries.
- Scallions: The white parts of scallions have a stronger, more pungent flavor, which is why I add them earlier in the cooking process. The green parts are milder and fresher, so I stir them in at the end to retain their vibrant color and flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
A good non-stick pan is essential for this recipe to prevent the chicken from sticking and burning. I recommend using a wok or a large skillet with high sides. You’ll also need a reliable cutting board and a sharp knife for prepping the ingredients.
How to Make Chinese Scallion Chicken: Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps for a perfect dish every time:
- 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
To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to overcook the chicken. It should be browned and cooked through, but still juicy. Also, be careful not to burn the scallions; keep the heat at medium. I like to add a touch of honey or a pinch of sugar to the sauce for a sweeter flavor.
If you’re looking for other chicken dishes that are quick and flavorful, consider trying The Ultimate Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Recipe.
Chinese Scallion Chicken Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are a few ideas:
| Variation | Ingredient Swap | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetarian | Firm Tofu | Press tofu well to remove excess water before marinating and frying. |
| Shrimp | Large Shrimp, peeled & deveined | Reduce cooking time to prevent overcooking the shrimp. |
| Added Vegetables | Bell Peppers, Snap Peas | Add with the white parts of the scallions for even cooking. |
Serving Suggestions
This Chinese Scallion Chicken is fantastic served over a bed of fluffy white rice or your favorite noodles. I also love pairing it with steamed broccoli or bok choy for a complete and balanced meal.
For a beautiful presentation, garnish with extra scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. As a delicious main dish, this recipe fits perfectly into our main-dishes category.
Storage Information
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Chinese Scallion Chicken: Nutritional Information
Per serving, this recipe contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 10g
This dish is a good source of protein and contains moderate amounts of fat and carbohydrates. Please note that it contains soy and may contain shellfish (from the oyster sauce). Always check the labels of your ingredients if you have any allergies or dietary concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions I get about this recipe:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but be sure to not overcook it! I find thighs are juicier and more flavorful.
Can I add ginger or garlic?
Absolutely! Add minced ginger and garlic to the pan along with the white parts of the scallions.
What kind of rice goes best with this dish?
I prefer jasmine rice, but any type of rice will work well.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy this easy and delicious Chinese Scallion Chicken recipe as much as I do! It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Now, I would love to hear from you! Leave a comment below with any questions or share your results. And if you enjoyed this recipe, please give it a rating!
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