Who doesn’t love a quick, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and effortlessly delicious? This Chinese Scallion Chicken is a game-changer—tender, juicy chicken infused with the rich umami of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, then topped with fragrant green onions for a bold, savory finish.
Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish that rivals your favorite takeout, this recipe delivers. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, using pantry-friendly ingredients to create a dish bursting with authentic Asian flavors.
Get ready to enjoy a crispy, golden exterior with juicy, flavorful bites in every forkful. Let’s dive in and make this unbelievably tasty scallion chicken!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chinese Scallion Chicken
This Chinese Scallion Chicken isn’t just another chicken dish—it’s a perfect balance of savory, aromatic, and slightly crisp textures that make it an instant favorite. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Bold Flavor: A delicious blend of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil infuses the chicken with rich umami depth.
- Crispy & Juicy: Lightly pan-seared for a golden, crispy exterior while staying moist and tender inside.
- Pantry-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients like scallions, ginger, and cornstarch, making it budget-friendly yet restaurant-quality.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or alongside stir-fried veggies for a complete meal.
If you love easy Chinese recipes that pack a punch of flavor with minimal effort, this one’s for you! Ready to get started? Let’s gather the ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need For Chinese Scallion Chicken
Before we dive into cooking, let’s get everything prepped. This Chinese Scallion Chicken uses simple, flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully for a dish bursting with savory umami and aromatic freshness.
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs – Juicy and tender, but you can also use chicken breast.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps create a light, crispy coating.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper – Adds a subtle heat.
- 1 teaspoon light soy sauce – Infuses the chicken with umami goodness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Brings out that signature nutty aroma.
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce – The backbone of the savory, slightly salty sauce.
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce – Adds a deeper color and richer taste.
- 1 teaspoon sugar – Balances out the saltiness.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar – A touch of acidity for depth.
- ¼ cup chicken stock – Enhances the overall richness.
For the Aromatics:
- 3 scallions (green onions), sliced – The star ingredient, adding fresh, oniony flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because every great dish needs garlic!
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced – Adds warmth and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like vegetable or avocado oil) – For sautéing everything to perfection.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Red chili flakes or fresh chilies – If you love a little heat.
- Toasted sesame seeds – A nutty crunch for the final garnish.
Once you’ve gathered these ingredients, you’re all set to cook up an easy yet incredibly flavorful scallion chicken dish. Let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions!
How to Make Chinese Scallion Chicken
Now that you have everything prepped, let’s bring this dish to life! Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly juicy chicken with a rich, savory scallion sauce.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix the chicken thighs with cornstarch, salt, white pepper, light soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors and tenderize.
Pro Tip: Cornstarch helps create a light, crispy coating while keeping the chicken moist and juicy inside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken, placing it skin-side down (if using skin-on thighs).
- Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the pan and let it rest while you make the sauce.
Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan, and let the chicken develop a deep, golden crust before flipping.
Step 3: Make the Scallion Sauce
- In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed.
- Sauté the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and chicken stock.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Pro Tip: Deglaze the pan by scraping up any browned bits—this adds rich, deep flavor to the sauce!
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle with sliced scallions and let them soften slightly in the residual heat.
- Transfer to a plate and garnish with sesame seeds or chili flakes if desired.
Final Tip: For the best flavor, let the chicken rest for a minute before slicing—it helps retain all those delicious juices!
Your Chinese Scallion Chicken is now ready to serve! Let’s explore some pro tips and variations to customize this dish to your taste.
Pro Tips & Variations
Want to take your Chinese Scallion Chicken to the next level? Here are some expert tips and creative variations to customize this dish to your taste!
Pro Tips for the Best Scallion Chicken
Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness – They stay tender and moist, but if you prefer leaner meat, chicken breast works too. Just adjust the cooking time to prevent drying out.
Let the Chicken Rest Before Slicing – This helps retain all those flavorful juices, making every bite succulent and tender.
Slice Scallions at an Angle – This not only looks more appealing but also enhances their natural sweetness and aroma when cooked.
Control the Saltiness – Soy sauce varies in sodium levels, so taste the sauce before adding more. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter option.
Get That Restaurant-Style Glaze – Simmer the sauce just long enough for it to slightly thicken and cling to the chicken, but not too long, or it may become too salty.
Tasty Variations to Try
Spicy Scallion Chicken – Add red chili flakes, fresh chili peppers, or a drizzle of chili oil for a fiery kick.
Citrusy Twist – A splash of fresh lime juice or orange zest can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
Scallion Chicken Stir-Fry – Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry with extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for a balanced meal.
Crispy Coated Chicken – For extra crunch, coat the chicken in a thin layer of flour or potato starch before pan-frying.
Herb-Infused Flavor – Try adding a bit of fresh cilantro, Thai basil, or even star anise to the sauce for extra depth.
With these tips and variations, you can make this dish your own while keeping it easy, delicious, and packed with flavor! Now, let’s talk about the best ways to serve this irresistible scallion chicken.
Serving Suggestions Of chinese scallion chicken
This Chinese Scallion Chicken is incredibly versatile, making it easy to pair with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re going for classic pairings or creative combinations, here are the best ways to enjoy this dish:
Classic Pairings
Steamed White Rice – The ultimate pairing! The fluffy texture absorbs the flavorful sauce perfectly. Try it with jasmine rice or short-grain rice for the best results.
Garlic Fried Rice – Take it up a notch by serving your chicken with fragrant garlic fried rice for an extra savory boost.
Noodles – Toss some stir-fried egg noodles, rice noodles, or lo mein with a bit of soy sauce and sesame oil for a delicious side.
Healthy & Low-Carb Options
Stir-Fried Vegetables – Serve with a side of bok choy, Chinese broccoli, or snap peas sautéed with garlic for a fresh contrast.
Cauliflower Rice or Zoodles – If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, swap the rice for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep things light yet flavorful.
Creative Serving Ideas
Scallion Chicken Wraps – Wrap sliced chicken in lettuce leaves or thin pancakes for a fun, hands-on meal similar to moo shu chicken.
Bao Buns or Sandwiches – Stuff the chicken into steamed bao buns or a soft roll with a drizzle of extra sauce for an Asian-inspired sandwich.
Spicy Fusion Bowls – Build a bowl with quinoa, brown rice, or soba noodles, then add edamame, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a fusion twist.
No matter how you serve it, this savory, aromatic scallion chicken will be the highlight of your meal. Ready to give it a try? Let’s wrap things up with some final thoughts!
Chinese Scallion Chicken recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil or vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1- inch piece of ginger grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water to form a slurry
- 4 green onions scallions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds and extra scallions
Instructions
Prepare the chicken:
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Heat the oil:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes until golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Prepare the sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Stir to combine.
Thicken the sauce:
- Add the cornstarch slurry (mixing cornstarch with water) into the sauce. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Combine chicken and sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Add sliced scallions and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Notes
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Potassium: 500mg
Conclusion
In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a mouthwatering plate of Chinese Scallion Chicken—an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress your guests, this dish delivers both convenience and bold, savory flavor.
With its tender chicken, aromatic scallions, and the rich umami of soy sauce and sesame oil, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe with a few simple tweaks to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
So, the next time you crave something deliciously satisfying with minimal effort, look no further than this easy-to-make Chinese Scallion Chicken. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’re all set for a meal that’s bound to impress every time!
Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are preferred for their juicy and tender texture, chicken breasts will work just as well. Simply adjust the cooking time to avoid drying them out. Thicker breasts may require a bit more time in the pan, so keep an eye on them!
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding some red chili flakes, fresh chili peppers, or a drizzle of chili oil to the sauce. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, adding more to reach your desired spice level!
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the sauce and marinate the chicken in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to cook, simply combine and cook. The marinating process will actually enhance the flavors!
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Of course! Simply swap the regular soy sauce for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. You can also use cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of traditional flour if needed.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Chinese Scallion Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
6. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots would work wonderfully with the chicken. Stir-fry them along with the chicken for a more nutritious, colorful dish!
7. Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken (without the scallions). Just store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat on the stove and add fresh scallions before serving.
Feel free to drop any more questions in the comments—I’d love to help! Enjoy making your Chinese Scallion Chicken, and have fun experimenting with these tips!