Hey y’all! Ready to spice up your dinner repertoire? This Scallion Chicken recipe is your ticket to a delicious meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, yet impressive enough for any occasion. With a delightful blend of flavors from fresh scallions and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Uses simple, fresh ingredients that pack a flavorful punch.
- Versatile enough to serve with your favorite sides or as a standalone dish.
- Perfect balance of savory and aromatic flavors from scallions and soy sauce.
- Impresses guests with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 scallions, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Directions
Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss the chicken strips with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken strips and cook until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Scallions
In the same skillet, add the garlic and scallions, and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet.
Thicken the Sauce
Pour the cornstarch mixture over the chicken and scallions. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For an added kick, sprinkle some red chili flakes on top. Check out Chili Pepper Madness for more spicy ideas.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Fresh scallions make all the difference, so try to use them instead of dried.
Variations
- Spicy Scallion Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of sriracha or hot sauce for heat.
- Ginger Scallion Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger to the marinade for a zesty twist.
- Lemon Scallion Chicken: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving for a citrus touch.
Required Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to retain moisture.
Suggested Pairings
This Scallion Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a side of roasted vegetables. Try serving it with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- For the juiciest chicken, avoid overcooking. Use a thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F. Learn more about cooking temperatures at Food Safety.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
- Experiment with different oils like peanut or canola for a unique flavor profile.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, prepare the marinade and chicken a day in advance to save time.