Braised Chicken with Green Onion: A Flavorful Comfort Dish

Braised Chicken with Green Onion is a delicious, savory dish that highlights the tender flavors of chicken and the aromatic punch of green onions. This comforting dish is popular in many Asian cuisines, where braising is a favored cooking method that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. The result is a succulent chicken that absorbs the rich, fragrant sauce, making it perfect for serving over rice or noodles.

Ingredients Breakdown

To prepare Braised Chicken with Green Onion, gather the following ingredients:

4 chicken thighs or breasts, skinless: Thighs are more flavorful and juicy, while breasts are leaner. Choose based on your preference.
1 cup green onions (scallions), chopped: Both the white and green parts add depth of flavor and a fresh finish.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic provides aromatic richness to the dish.
1 tablespoon ginger, minced: Adds warmth and a slight spice.
1/4 cup soy sauce: For umami flavor and saltiness.
2 tablespoons rice wine or cooking sherry: Enhances the dish with a subtle sweetness.
1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and richness.
1 cup chicken broth: For moisture and depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon sugar (optional): Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.
Cooking oil: For browning the chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, skin-side down (if using thighs with skin), and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
Add the Liquid: Pour in the soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, and chicken broth. If using, stir in the sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Braise the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it in the liquid. Add the chopped green onions (reserve some for garnish if desired). Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Adjust Seasoning: After braising, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken and simmer the sauce uncovered for a few additional minutes until it reduces.
Serve: Serve the braised chicken hot, spooning the sauce and green onions over the top. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for Success

Marinate for Extra Flavor: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
Customize the Greens: You can add other vegetables, such as bok choy or bell peppers, during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Braised Chicken with Green Onion is versatile and can be served in various ways:

Over Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
With Noodles: Toss with cooked noodles for a comforting bowl of chicken noodle goodness.
As Part of a Meal: Serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Braised Chicken with Green Onion is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. The method of braising ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender, while the green onions add a fresh brightness to the dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to please family and friends alike. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal!