If you’re craving a dish that delivers punchy flavors with simplicity and speed, this Classic Chinese Scallion Chicken in 30 Minutes Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with the fragrant brightness of scallions and a savory soy-based sauce that perfectly balances richness and freshness. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or eager to impress without hours of fuss, this recipe brings authentic Chinese flavors right to your kitchen in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Classic Chinese Scallion Chicken in 30 Minutes Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each one plays a starring role—from the succulent chicken thighs to the vibrant green onions and the trio of soy sauces that build a deep, layered umami flavor. Simple, accessible, and ready to elevate your meal.
- Chicken thighs: Boneless and juicy, they stay tender even with quick cooking, perfect for absorbing all the delicious marinade flavors.
- Green onions (scallions): Using both the white and green parts creates a beautiful balance of robust flavor and fresh crunch.
- Cooking oil: A neutral oil works best here to get that perfect sear without overpowering the dish.
- Light soy sauce: Adds savory saltiness and depth to the marinade and sauce.
- Dark soy sauce: Contributes a richer color and a slightly sweet complexity that enhances the chicken’s appearance and taste.
- Oyster sauce: Brings a glossy finish and a subtly sweet, briny kick that lifts the entire dish.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and gives the chicken a silky coating that locks in juices.
- Shaoxing cooking wine: This classic Chinese cooking wine adds an aromatic touch that beautifully complements the other seasonings.
- Salt and black pepper: Balanced to enhance the natural flavors without making anything overpowering.
How to Make Classic Chinese Scallion Chicken in 30 Minutes Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Marinate
Begin by cutting the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and eating. Toss them with salt, black pepper, cornstarch, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Shaoxing cooking wine. This simple marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses each bite with a rich mosaic of savory flavors. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes—this little pause is crucial for maximum taste and texture.
Step 2: Slice the Scallions
While your chicken marinates, separate your green onions into their white and green parts. Slice them thinly but keep these parts apart because their cooking times differ. The white portions add a fragrant, slightly spicy base when sautéed, whereas the green tops provide a fresh, vibrant crunch and bright hue when stirred in at the end.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat your cooking oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Spread the marinated chicken pieces out in one even layer to encourage a beautiful golden crust. Resist the urge to stir immediately; allow them to sear for a few minutes. Stir and cook until the chicken is no longer pink and has a lovely caramelized color, about 5 to 7 minutes in total. This step is essential for locking in juiciness and flavor.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics with Scallions
Next, add the white parts of your scallions to the pan to release their rich aroma—just about 30 seconds is enough for them to soften and infuse the dish. Then sprinkle in the green parts, stirring quickly for an additional 10 seconds to keep their bright color and delicate crunch. This layering of scallion flavors brings the dish alive visually and taste-wise, making it irresistibly appetizing.
Step 5: Serve Your Classic Chinese Scallion Chicken in 30 Minutes Recipe
Serve this vibrant, flavor-packed chicken hot, ideally over steaming white rice which soaks up every bite of the savory sauce. This simple yet show-stopping dish makes dinner a moment you’ll look forward to every time.
How to Serve Classic Chinese Scallion Chicken in 30 Minutes Recipe
Garnishes
Add thoughtful garnishes like a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil to elevate the dish’s aroma and texture. A few thinly sliced fresh red chili peppers can also add a stunning pop of color and gentle heat for those who love a little kick.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, simple sides. Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice is classic and lets the scallion chicken shine. For added veggies, try quick stir-fried bok choy or a crunchy cucumber salad to introduce fresh contrasts to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this scallion chicken in lettuce wraps, allowing diners to build their own handheld bites packed with flavor. Alternatively, spoon the chicken over a bed of noodles for a satisfying twist on the classic presentation that’s just as quick to make.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Classic Chinese Scallion Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect candidate for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish if you want to extend its shelf life. Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will stay good for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat your scallion chicken in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving for prolonged periods, as this can dry out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or a bit of extra soy sauce while reheating helps keep it moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work if you prefer leaner meat, but cook carefully to avoid drying them out. Thighs offer more juiciness and tenderness, especially with quick cooking.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Shaoxing cooking wine?
A dry sherry or a mild white wine works as a good substitute in a pinch. If you prefer non-alcoholic, a splash of chicken broth mixed with a little rice vinegar can mimic the flavor profile.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not inherently, but you can add sliced fresh chilies or a dash of chili oil if you enjoy some heat. The scallion flavor shines beautifully without spiciness, making it family-friendly.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
You can swap chicken for firm tofu or seitan and replace oyster sauce with vegetarian alternatives like mushroom sauce. Adjust cooking times accordingly to keep your plant-based protein tender.
Why is cornstarch used in this recipe?
Cornstarch helps thicken the sauce and gives the chicken a smooth, velvety coating that locks in moisture and makes every bite irresistibly tender and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Chinese Scallion Chicken in 30 Minutes Recipe truly offers the perfect balance of ease and fantastic flavor that everyone appreciates. It’s one of those dishes you turn to when you want something quick but meaningful—comforting, bright, and satisfying. Don’t hesitate to try it out tonight and see how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your recipe rotation.
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Classic Chinese Scallion Chicken in 30 Minutes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
Classic Chinese Scallion Chicken is a flavorful and quick stir-fry dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in a savory sauce, cooked with fresh scallions to create a perfect balance of savory and fresh flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy and delicious dinner option that’s excellent served over steamed white rice.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing cooking wine
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Vegetables & Cooking
- 4 cups green onions (scallions), sliced with white and green parts separated
- 4 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable or peanut oil preferred)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Cut boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Place in a bowl and season with salt, black pepper, cornstarch, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Shaoxing cooking wine. Mix thoroughly and marinate for 10–15 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Scallions: Slice green onions into thin pieces, separating the white parts from the green parts. The white parts will cook longer and provide depth of flavor, while the green parts will be added at the end for freshness and color.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 4 tablespoons cooking oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer without stirring to sear and develop a golden crust, about 2 minutes. Then stir and continue cooking for 3–5 minutes until chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Sauté the Aromatics with Green Onions: Add the white parts of the scallions to the pan and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until softened and fragrant. Add the green parts of the scallions and cook for an additional 10 seconds to keep their bright color and slight crispness.
- Serve: Transfer the scallion chicken to plates and serve hot over steamed white rice. Enjoy the perfect balance of savory chicken and fresh scallion flavors.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh green onions and separate white and green parts as instructed.
- Shaoxing cooking wine can be substituted with dry sherry if unavailable.
- Adjust soy sauce quantities to taste for saltiness preference.
- Use a wok or large skillet to ensure even cooking and proper stir-frying technique.
- Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
