Ginger Scallion Poached Chicken
Introduction
Tender, juicy, and infused with delicate aromatics, Ginger Scallion Poached Chicken is a classic dish that proves simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. Chicken is gently poached until perfectly moist, then served with a fragrant ginger-scallion sauce made with fresh ginger, green onions, sesame oil, and a touch of soy sauce. This light yet satisfying meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever you’re craving a healthy, restaurant-quality dish at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Exceptionally juicy and tender chicken
– Light, fresh, and flavorful
– Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
– High in protein and family-friendly
– Perfect for meal prep
Ingredients
For the Poached Chicken
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 6 cups chicken broth or water
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
– 4 scallions, cut into large pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, smashed
– 1 teaspoon salt
For the Ginger Scallion Sauce
– 6 scallions, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely minced
– 3 tablespoons neutral oil
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
– ½ teaspoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
– Fresh cilantro
– Sesame seeds
– Thinly sliced red chili
Instructions
1. In a large pot, combine the broth, sliced ginger, scallions, garlic, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer.
2. Add the chicken, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid.
3. Reduce the heat to low and gently poach for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
5. In a bowl, combine the chopped scallions, minced ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
6. Heat the neutral oil until hot but not smoking, then carefully pour it over the scallion and ginger mixture. Stir in the sesame oil.
7. Arrange the sliced chicken on a serving platter and spoon the warm ginger scallion sauce generously over the top.
8. Garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, and sliced chili if desired.
Tips
– Keep the poaching liquid at a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil to ensure tender chicken.
– Save the poaching broth to use as a flavorful base for soups or noodles.
– Chicken thighs provide extra juiciness, while breasts offer a leaner option.
– Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ginger Scallion Poached Chicken with steamed jasmine rice, garlic noodles, stir-fried vegetables, bok choy, cucumber salad, or a bowl of clear chicken broth. It also pairs wonderfully with chili oil or a side of pickled vegetables.
Conclusion
Ginger Scallion Poached Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers incredibly tender chicken with fresh, aromatic flavors. Paired with its savory ginger-scallion sauce, this healthy and satisfying recipe is perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to impressive family meals.