© Original Recipe By Magic Spoon Recipes ©
Sweet & Savory Caramelized Soy Chicken with Garlic Ginger Broth and Rice 🍯🍗🥢
1. Introduction
If you’re a fan of caramelized soy chicken, this dish will become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Combining the perfect balance of sweetness and savory umami flavors, the sticky soy chicken pairs beautifully with fragrant garlic ginger broth and fluffy rice. The recipe offers a satisfying blend of textures and bold flavors that make it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Ready to master this flavorful dish? Let’s get started!
2. Ingredients for Sweet & Savory Caramelized Soy Chicken
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar (for caramelization)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- 4 cups cooked rice
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
3. Step-by-step Instructions to Make Caramelized Soy Chicken
Preparing the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and rice vinegar. Marinate the chicken in this mixture for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Creating the Caramelized Sauce
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute. Reserve a small amount of marinade for the sauce, then pour the remaining marinade into the skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing the sugars to caramelize and thicken for about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, cooking over medium-high heat. Stir frequently to achieve an even caramelization, about 8-10 minutes. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and coated in the sticky sauce.
Preparing Garlic Ginger Broth and Rice
While the chicken cooks, prepare your rice according to package instructions. In a saucepan, heat some additional broth, adding minced garlic and ginger for flavor. Simmer for 10 minutes to create a fragrant broth that complements the savory chicken.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Caramelized Soy Chicken
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. For the best texture, reheat gently to avoid the caramelized sauce becoming too sticky or burnt.
5. Serving Suggestions for Delicious Results
Serve your caramelized soy chicken over fluffy steamed rice, which acts as a perfect base for absorbing the flavorful sauce. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added crunch and freshness. You can also add steamed vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas for a complete meal. For additional flavor, consider drizzle of sriracha or a squeeze of lime.
6. Variations to Elevate Your Sweet Soy Chicken
- Turn the dish into a garlic ginger chicken with extra garlic and ginger added during preparation.
- Switch the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Caramelized Soy Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster and can become dry if overcooked. Use boneless, skinless breasts, and cook for about 6–8 minutes until no longer pink inside.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to enjoy a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet flavorful dinner.
What are suitable substitutions for honey?
You can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option that still provides the sweet caramelized flavor.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for quick, even cooking of chicken or vegetables, saving time and effort.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures your cookware is durable and non-stick for easy and mess-free cooking.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Great for grilling or air frying chicken for added flavor and crispiness.
- Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker – Elevate your meal with a perfect coffee pairing.
9. Conclusion
This caramelized soy chicken recipe combines sweetness, savoriness, and aromatic garlic ginger flavors into a deliciously sticky dish that’s easy to prepare and full of taste. Perfectly complemented by fragrant rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, it makes for an impressive entrée to enjoy with family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Try it today and indulge in a memorable dining experience!
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Sweet & Savory Caramelized Soy Chicken with Garlic Ginger Broth and Rice
A savory and sweet soy-glazed chicken cooked in a fragrant garlic and ginger broth, served over steaming rice.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Cooked rice for serving
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Marinate chicken for 20 minutes.
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and caramelized, about 8 minutes per side.
- Pour broth into the skillet, add the marinade, and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Serve the chicken over rice, spooning broth over the top, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by varying honey or sugar.
- Best served immediately with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten-Free if gluten-free soy sauce used
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420 Kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg