Braised chicken with green onion is a simple yet irresistible dish that will have you coming back for more. This dish’s secret lies in the green onion, which acts as the soul of the flavor, enhancing the chicken with a savory depth that is hard to resist. The combination of tender, golden-brown chicken pieces and the rich, aromatic sauce makes this a standout meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, this braised chicken recipe is sure to please.
Why You'll Love This Dish
The beauty of braised chicken with green onion is in its balance of flavors. The marinated chicken gets a golden, crispy exterior, while the sauce delivers a sweet and savory finish. The fresh green onions contribute a refreshing, slightly pungent taste that perfectly complements the chicken, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. This recipe is loved for its simplicity, quick prep time, and rich flavors that are packed into every bite.
Ingredients You'll Need
Each ingredient in this dish plays an essential role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- 1 lb fresh chicken legs (cut into pieces): The chicken legs provide juiciness and flavor. They’re perfect for braising because they become tender and absorb the sauce’s savory goodness.
- 1 tbsp cooking wine: This adds a subtle depth of flavor to the marinade and helps tenderize the chicken.
- 1 tbsp starch: The starch creates a light coating on the chicken, ensuring it crisps up beautifully during cooking and helps thicken the sauce.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the sweetness and savoriness of the sauce.
- ½ tsp black pepper: A dash of black pepper adds a spicy kick and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce: The light soy sauce brings in umami and a rich salty depth, perfect for braising.
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce: A key ingredient in many Asian dishes, the oyster sauce adds complexity and a slight sweetness that complements the chicken.
- ½ tbsp white sugar: A small amount of sugar balances out the salty elements and brings a hint of sweetness to the sauce.
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions: Green onions are the star of this dish. Their fresh, aromatic flavor will elevate the chicken and add a burst of color.
- 2 tbsp cooking oil: Used for stir-frying the chicken and ensuring a crispy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooking wine, starch, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade and let them sit for 21 minutes. This will help tenderize the meat and allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the sauce in a separate bowl. Mix together the light soy sauce, oyster sauce, and white sugar. This sauce will coat the chicken, infusing it with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once the chicken is marinated, heat the cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan and stir-fry them until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This step will help develop the crispy exterior that’s so satisfying.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and stir-fry it until the chicken is evenly coated and the sauce thickens slightly. This should take just a few minutes.
Step 5: Add the Green Onions
Add the chopped green onions to the pan and stir-fry briefly, just enough to let the onions wilt and release their aromatic flavor. Then, cover the pan and let it simmer for 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After simmering, your braised chicken with green onion is ready to be served! Dish it out while hot and enjoy the crispy, tender chicken coated in that delicious sauce.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
This dish is loved for its balance of textures and flavors. The crispiness of the chicken, combined with the rich sauce and fresh green onions, creates an unforgettable dining experience. It’s a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for speed, making it ideal for busy weeknights or even a special meal with loved ones. The versatility of this dish also allows you to pair it with a variety of sides, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Braised Chicken with Green Onion
- Use fresh chicken for the best texture and flavor. If you have access to free-range chicken, it will enhance the taste even further.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken during the stir-frying step, as you want it to be crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside.
- For a more intense flavor, let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes to an hour.
Serving Suggestions
Braised chicken with green onion pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with:
- Steamed jasmine rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- A fresh vegetable stir-fry to balance out the richness of the chicken.
- Pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast to the savory dish.
Conclusion
In just 40 minutes, you can enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal with braised chicken with green onion. This recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich, savory sauce, with the fresh green onions providing a burst of flavor that takes the dish to the next level. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for any meal. Don’t miss out on trying this irresistible chicken recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire!