Chinese Scallion Chicken: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

Have you ever craved a dish so intensely that it felt like your taste buds were staging a full-blown revolt? That’s exactly how I felt before I discovered the magic of Chinese Scallion Chicken: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a culinary symphony.

The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a bustling Chinese street market, the flavors a perfect dance of savory, sweet, and subtly spicy. I first experienced this dish at a small family-run restaurant during a trip, and the memory has been haunting my kitchen ever since. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping weekend meal.

This Chinese Scallion Chicken recipe is incredibly easy to follow.

Its flavor profile is unbelievably delicious and balanced.

The dish looks absolutely stunning on any plate.

This recipe is endlessly versatile, perfect for customizing to your preferences.

Ingredients for Chinese Scallion Chicken: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Thighs or Breasts Use boneless, skinless for ease of cooking. Choose organic if possible for a richer flavor.

Scallions Lots of them! The scallions are the star of the show, providing both flavor and visual appeal.

Soy Sauce Opt for a low-sodium variety to control the saltiness.

Ginger Fresh ginger is best; it adds a warm, spicy note.

Garlic Fresh garlic minced is ideal; this adds another layer of flavor to the marinade.

Chicken Broth Use low-sodium for better control over the salt.

Cornstarch This helps thicken the sauce for a glossy finish.

Sesame Oil A touch of sesame oil elevates the entire dish.

Brown Sugar Balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.

Rice Vinegar Adds a subtle tang and helps to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar.

Vegetable Oil For stir-frying the chicken and scallions.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chinese Scallion Chicken: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a tablespoon of sesame oil. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors fully.

Step 2: Prepare the Scallions

Wash and thoroughly dry the scallions. Cut the white and light green parts into thin slices, and the dark green parts into 1-inch pieces. Set aside separately.

Step 3: Stir-fry the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it’s browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the sliced scallions and stir-fry for 1 minute until softened slightly. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cornstarch, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and remaining sesame oil. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the scallions and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Stir in the dark green parts of the scallions. Remove from the heat. Serve the Chinese Scallion Chicken immediately over rice or noodles.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Transfer to plates and garnish with extra sesame seeds if desired for the perfect finishing touch. This dish is best enjoyed hot, but leftovers are equally delicious the next day.

Enjoy your incredible Chinese Scallion Chicken! Let me know in the comments how it turned out. I can’t wait to hear your culinary success stories (and even the minor mishaps—we’ve all been there!).

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, sear the chicken until golden brown. Then, while the chicken rests, prepare the scallion sauce. Finally, combine the seared chicken and sauce, simmering gently until heated through. This ensures tender chicken and a flavorful sauce.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment! Swap chicken for beef or turkey. Add a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra depth. Chopped shiitake mushrooms would also make a delicious addition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan on the stovetop or in the microwave, avoiding overcooking.

Use high-heat oil for searing to develop a flavorful crust on the chicken.

Don’t overcrowd the pan while searing the chicken. Work in batches for even browning.

Thinly slice the scallions to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavor throughout the sauce.

My aunt once raved about my Chinese Scallion Chicken, saying it was the best she’d ever tasted. That made my day!

Chinese Scallion Chicken

: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

Step 1

: Prepare the Chicken

This is where the adventure begins! We’re talking about succulent, juicy chicken, the star of our show. Start by cutting about 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Why thighs? Because they’re more forgiving than breasts and tend to stay incredibly moist. Nobody wants dry chicken, right? Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper – about a teaspoon of each should do the trick. This simple seasoning lets the chicken’s natural flavor shine.

Step 2

: Sear the Chicken to Perfection

Grab a large skillet and heat about 2 tablespoons of high-heat cooking oil (like canola or avocado oil) over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, carefully add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if necessary. We’re aiming for a beautiful golden-brown sear, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t rush this process! A good sear adds tons of flavor.

Step 3

: Craft the Magical Scallion Sauce

Now for the sauce, the secret weapon that elevates this dish from good to unforgettable. Finely chop about 1 cup of scallions (both white and green parts), and set aside about a quarter cup for garnish. In a separate bowl, whisk together ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup (for sweetness), and a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.

Step 4

: The Simmering Symphony

Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Pour the scallion sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is nicely coated. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5

: Elevate with a Burst of Freshness

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the reserved chopped scallions. This adds a vibrant freshness and beautiful contrast of color and texture.

Step 6

: The Grand Finale

Serve your Chinese Scallion Chicken immediately, ideally over a bed of steamed rice. The tender chicken, the fragrant sauce, the perfectly cooked rice – it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

Step 7

: Garnish and Enjoy!

Garnish with extra chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch of elegance. Dig in and savor every bite of this incredible dish. You deserve it! Enjoy your culinary masterpiece. This Chinese Scallion Chicken recipe is a winner, whether you’re impressing dinner guests or simply treating yourself to a delicious, easy meal.

Conclusion for Chinese Scallion Chicken: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

This incredible 7-step recipe for Chinese Scallion Chicken delivers a flavor explosion in under an hour. The key to success lies in the careful marinating process, allowing the chicken to absorb the fragrant scallions and seasonings. The simple yet effective cooking method ensures juicy, tender chicken every time. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare for a culinary adventure you won’t forget! Enjoy the delicious results of this fantastic dish.

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FAQs

How long does it take to make this Chinese Scallion Chicken recipe?

This incredible 7-step Chinese Scallion Chicken recipe takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to prepare and cook. The majority of the time is spent marinating the chicken, which allows the flavors to really meld and penetrate the meat, creating a more succulent and flavorful result. Don’t rush this step; patience is key to achieving that perfect balance of savory and aromatic notes. Once the chicken is marinated, the actual cooking process is relatively quick and straightforward. You’ll find it’s well worth the effort!

Can I use a different type of chicken in this Chinese Scallion Chicken recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe uses chicken thighs, you can certainly substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster than thighs, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Observe the chicken closely to ensure it cooks through completely without drying out. Remember, the goal is juicy, tender chicken infused with the amazing scallion flavor. Feel free to experiment and find your preferred cut.

What can I do with leftover Chinese Scallion Chicken?

Leftover Chinese Scallion Chicken is fantastic! It makes a delightful addition to salads, rice bowls, or even tacos. You can also shred it and use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. It’s equally delicious cold or reheated. The savory flavors stand up well to various preparations, ensuring that your delicious Chinese Scallion Chicken won’t go to waste. The vibrant flavors and tender chicken work well in many different dishes.

Is this Chinese Scallion Chicken recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes! This Chinese Scallion Chicken recipe is very beginner-friendly. The instructions are straightforward, and the techniques involved are simple to master. Even with minimal cooking experience, you can easily follow the steps and achieve a delicious result. The simple marinade and quick cooking time make it perfect for those new to Chinese cuisine or those short on time. Don’t be intimidated; give it a try and you’ll be surprised how easy it is to make this impressive dish.