Walking through a bustling Asian market, the aroma of ginger and scallions wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to a cherished memory of homemade meals. Today, I’m excited to share my version of Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken, a dish that effortlessly combines the tender goodness of poached chicken with the zesty brightness of fresh ginger and scallions. This recipe not only promises a light and nutritious meal but also requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With its comforting flavors and ease of preparation, it’s a fantastic way to elevate your culinary repertoire while satisfying your cravings. Are you ready to bring a taste of this vibrant dish to your kitchen? Let’s dive into the details! Why Will You Enjoy This Poached Chicken? Tender, Flavorful Chicken: The poaching method keeps the chicken tender and juicy, allowing it to absorb the aromatic tones of ginger and scallions. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a delightful meal ready in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights. Nutritious Delight: Packed with flavor yet light on the palate, this dish is a nutritious option that won’t weigh you down, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious home cooks. Versatile Pairing: Serve it over steamed jasmine rice or alongside sautéed vegetables for a colorful, wholesome meal that satisfies everyone’s cravings. Elevate Your Skills: Trying this simple yet flavorful recipe can add a new staple to your repertoire, much like the delicious Cheesy Chicken Broccoli or the crowd-pleasing Crockpot Chicken Tinga. Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken Chicken Drumsticks – Ideal source of protein; feel free to swap in thighs or breasts for a different bite. For the Flavor Base Fresh Ginger – Offers a fragrant kick that elevates the dish; always use fresh for maximum flavor impact. Scallions – Provides a subtle onion sweetness and a pop of color; focus mainly on using the white parts while reserving green parts for garnish. For the Sauce Olive or Sesame Oil – Adds a rich depth and helps meld flavors; any neutral oil will also work if you prefer. Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Infuses the dish with umami richness and depth; opting for low sodium helps control the overall salt level. Coconut Sugar or Regular Sugar – Balances the savory notes with a hint of sweetness; honey can be an excellent alternative for a unique flavor twist. Reserved Chicken Water – Essential for creating a sauce that beautifully complements the chicken by adding depth and moisture. For Garnish Chopped Scallions – The green parts serve as a lovely garnish that brightens the dish and enhances visual appeal. With these Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken ingredients, you’re set for a mouthwatering experience that’s as delightful to eat as it is to prepare! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken Step 1: Bring Water to Boil Start by filling a large pot with 6 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Using a pot with a lid will help the water heat faster. This initial step is essential for cooking the chicken evenly, ensuring it remains tender when poached. Step 2: Add Chicken and Aromatics Once the water is boiling, carefully add the chicken drumsticks, ginger slices, and the white parts of the scallions into the pot. Allow the mixture to return to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This process not only cooks the chicken but also infuses the broth with rich flavors. Step 3: Let Chicken Rest After the 10 minutes of simmering, turn off the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Let the chicken sit in the hot water for an additional minute. This resting period helps the chicken continue to cook gently and absorb the aromatic flavors from the ginger and scallions, ensuring a juicy and flavorful outcome. Step 4: Prepare Ice Bath While the chicken is resting, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water. Once the chicken has finished resting, carefully remove the drumsticks from the pot and submerge them in the ice bath. Allow them to cool completely for about 20 minutes, which helps the chicken retain its moisture and stops the cooking process. Step 5: Make the Flavorful Sauce While the chicken cools, grab a mixing bowl and combine olive or sesame oil, low sodium soy sauce, coconut sugar, a few tablespoons of the reserved chicken water, chopped ginger, and the green parts of the scallions. Stir everything together until the sugar dissolves, creating a rich and savory sauce that will enhance your Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken. Step 6: Shred Chicken and Serve Once the chicken is cool, take it out of the ice bath and shred it into bite-sized pieces on a serving plate. Drizzle the prepared sauce generously over the shredded chicken. The final dish should glisten with flavor, captivating your senses and inviting you to enjoy this delicious Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken. Make Ahead Options These Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can poach the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and simply store it in the fridge. After it cools in the ice bath, seal the chicken in an airtight container to maintain its tenderness and moisture. The flavorful sauce can also be mixed ahead of time and refrigerated (just make sure to stir before serving to reactivate the flavors). When you’re ready to enjoy, shred the chicken and drizzle the sauce over it, and you’ll have a delicious meal that tastes just as fresh and vibrant! What to Serve with Chinese Ginger Scallion Poached Chicken This delightful poached chicken creates a flavorful foundation for a comforting and vibrant meal experience. Steamed Jasmine Rice: The subtle sweetness of jasmine rice perfectly complements the savory chicken, making every bite an indulgent treat. Sautéed Bok Choy: The crisp texture and slight bitterness of bok choy balance the richness of the chicken, enhancing your plate’s vibrancy. Enjoying this pair adds a delightful crunch and freshness to the meal. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, a cucumber salad offers a contrast in texture and flavor, cutting through the richness of the chicken with its coolness. Tossing in sesame oil brings an extra layer of flavor to TikTok kitchen inspiration. Sesame Noodles: Serve the chicken alongside a bowl of sesame noodles for a delightful mix of flavors, with the nuttiness enhancing the dish’s aromatic notes. This pairing creates a cozy, harmonious meal that warms your heart. Miso Soup: The umami-rich broth of miso soup adds warmth and depth to your dining experience, making it a comforting starter to enjoy before diving into the main dish. Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea cleanses the palate and complements the vibrant flavors, enhancing your overall dining experience with a sense of tranquility. Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy delight provides a lovely contrast to the savory chicken, rounding out your meal with a satisfying touch of sweetness. Expert Tips for Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken Submerge Chicken: Ensure the chicken is completely submerged while boiling to promote even cooking and maintain tenderness. Ice Bath Importance: Don’t skip the ice bath! It halts the cooking, preserving moisture and preventing rubbery texture in your poached chicken. Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Tender chicken should be juicy, not dry. Use a thermometer for accuracy if needed. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh ginger and scallions for maximum flavor impact. Dried or powdered alternatives won’t give you that aromatic depth. Customize the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the sauce. A dash of rice vinegar or sesame oil can enhance the umami of the Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken. Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great meal prep option! Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful dish to suit your tastes! Dairy-Free: Substitute any butter-based ingredients with olive or coconut oil for a creamy feel without the dairy. Herb Boost: Add fresh cilantro or basil for an extra layer of fragrance, bringing new dimensions to your chicken. Spicy Kick: Drizzle in a bit of chili oil or Sriracha for heat that dances perfectly with ginger’s warmth. Citrus Zing: Toss in some lemon or lime zest to brighten the flavors, adding a zesty twist to the classic dish. Caramelized Touch: Sauté chopped scallions until golden before adding to the sauce for an added sweetness and depth of flavor. Noodle Dish: Serve shredded chicken over cooked rice noodles, drizzling the sauce generously for a hearty, comforting bowl. Umami Richness: Incorporate a splash of rice vinegar or mushroom soy sauce to elevate the umami notes even further. These variations can transform your Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken into a new favorite with each preparation! Consider pairing it with a fresh side like a simple vegetable stir-fry, reminiscent of the flavorful experiences from the vibrant street markets. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, why not give Bang Bang Chicken a try for a similar zingy kick? You’ll find endless joy in experimenting! Storage Tips for Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure chicken is cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shredded chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain moisture. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Make-Ahead: Poach the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge, then prepare the sauce just before serving for a quick meal. Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select the best ginger and scallions for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting ginger, look for firm roots with smooth skin, avoiding any that have dark spots or wrinkles, which indicate age. For scallions, choose vibrant green stalks with firm white bulbs free from any limpness or browning. What’s the best way to store leftovers of Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken? Very important! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy them within 3 days for the best taste and texture. Be sure to cool the chicken completely before sealing to avoid creating moisture. Can I freeze the Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken? Yes, you can! To freeze, first shred the chicken once it’s cooled, then place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty resealable bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. What if I overcooked the chicken during poaching? Don’t worry! If you accidentally overcooked it and the chicken turned dry, try shredding it and mixing it with some sauce to add moisture back. You can also add a splash of broth or water when reheating to help rehydrate the chicken. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Absolutely! If you’re allergic to soy, consider substituting with coconut aminos or a low-sodium alternative. For pet owners, be mindful that the dish contains seasonings that should not be fed to pets. Always check for allergies among your guests, especially for the ginger and soy components. Savory Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken You’ll Love at Home A delightful Chinese Ginger Scallion Chicken recipe that merges tender poached chicken with aromatic ginger and scallions for a nutritious meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ChineseCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken6 drumsticks Chicken Feel free to swap in thighs or breasts for a different bite.For the Flavor Base2 inches Fresh Ginger Always use fresh for maximum flavor impact.4 stalks Scallions Focus mainly on using the white parts while reserving green parts for garnish.For the Sauce3 tablespoons Olive or Sesame Oil Any neutral oil will also work if you prefer.1/4 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce Opting for low sodium helps control the overall salt level.1 tablespoon Coconut Sugar or Regular Sugar Honey can be an excellent alternative for a unique flavor twist.1/2 cup Reserved Chicken Water Essential for creating a sauce that beautifully complements the chicken.For Garnish2 stalks Chopped Scallions Brightens the dish and enhances visual appeal. Equipment Large potMixing bowlServing plate Method Step-by-Step InstructionsStart by filling a large pot with 6 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.Once the water is boiling, carefully add the chicken drumsticks, ginger slices, and the white parts of the scallions into the pot. Allow the mixture to return to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 10 minutes.After the 10 minutes of simmering, turn off the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Let the chicken sit in the hot water for an additional minute.While the chicken is resting, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water. Once the chicken has finished resting, carefully remove the drumsticks from the pot and submerge them in the ice bath.While the chicken cools, grab a mixing bowl and combine olive or sesame oil, low sodium soy sauce, coconut sugar, a few tablespoons of the reserved chicken water, chopped ginger, and the green parts of the scallions. Stir until the sugar dissolves.Once the chicken is cool, take it out of the ice bath and shred it into bite-sized pieces on a serving plate. Drizzle the prepared sauce over the shredded chicken. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 24gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesLeftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Poach the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge, then prepare the sauce just before serving for a quick meal. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
