© Original recipe by Crave & Craft ©
Sweet Soy Chicken with Garlic Ginger Broth and Rice 🍯🐔🍚
1. Introduction
If you’re a fan of **caramelised soy chicken**, you’re in for a treat with this flavorful dish that combines juicy soy chicken with a fragrant garlic ginger broth served over fluffy rice. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The secret lies in achieving a beautifully caramelized exterior on the chicken while keeping the inside tender and moist. Plus, the rich garlic ginger broth adds an extra layer of depth to the dish, elevating your dining experience. To enhance your cooking, check out this compact 6-in-1 digital air fryer, which makes achieving that perfect caramelization much easier.
2. Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- ¼ cup soy sauce (preferably dark soy for richness)
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Cooked jasmine or basmati rice, for serving
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, chili flakes
3. Step-by-step Instructions for Making Caramelised Soy Chicken
Prep the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. Then, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger for at least 30 minutes. This helps infuse flavor and tenderize the meat.
Pan-Sear the Chicken
Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a splash of sesame oil or your preferred cooking oil. Once hot, place the chicken in the pan and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and caramelized. This creates a glossy, flavorful crust. For best results, consider using the digital air fryer to get an even caramelization without excess oil.
Prepare the Garlic Ginger Broth
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, rice vinegar, and any remaining marinade. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and add more minced garlic and ginger if desired. Cook for 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld and slightly reduce the broth.
Glaze the Chicken
Return the caramelized chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the broth over it. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly and coat the chicken beautifully. This step ensures the chicken is infused with deep, caramelized soy flavor.
Final Touches and Serving
Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate. Pour the garlic ginger broth over the top and garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or chili flakes for an extra kick. Serve hot over fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.
4. Storage Tips
Leftover caramelised soy chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or a microwave. To maintain the caramelization and flavors, consider re-browning the chicken in a hot pan or air fryer before serving again.
5. Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas. For an added layer of flavor, include some pickled vegetables or a side of kimchi. If you’re interested in making a variety of Asian-inspired rice bowls, check out this creamy spinach mushroom pasta recipe for a different twist, or explore other rice ideas with garlic parmesan chicken skewers.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp?
Absolutely! Tofu can be marinated just like chicken and pan-fried or baked to achieve a caramelized finish. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a seafood alternative. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be if you opt for gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. This makes the dish accessible to gluten-sensitive or celiac diets.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total cooking time, including marinating, is approximately 45 minutes. Active prep and cooking take around 30 minutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the caramelised soy chicken and garlic ginger broth can be prepared in advance and stored separately. Reheat before serving and drizzle with fresh garnishes.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Achieving perfect caramelized soy chicken is easier with the right tools. Consider using a compact 6-in-1 digital air fryer for even crispiness without excess oil, ensuring your chicken achieves a beautiful caramelized glaze effortlessly. Additionally, a sturdy skillet like the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set helps achieve even searing and easy clean-up. For precise temperature control, a digital meat thermometer can prevent overcooking.
8. Conclusion
**Sweet soy chicken with garlic ginger broth** offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will elevate any mealtime. Its caramelized exterior and fragrant broth make it a standout dish suitable for both casual dinners and impressive entertaining. By following the simple steps and utilizing some helpful kitchen tools, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own home. Remember to experiment with garnishes and side dishes to personalize this dish to your taste. Enjoy your cooking journey, and don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes at A Cozinha da Serena!
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Sweet Soy Chicken with Garlic Ginger Broth and Rice
A savory and slightly sweet soy glazed chicken simmered in aromatic garlic and ginger broth, served with fluffy jasmine rice.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Steamed rice, for serving
- Green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
- Marinate chicken thighs in the sauce for 15 minutes.
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to simmer, and cook until chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Serve chicken over steamed rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness with more honey or sugar to taste.
- You can substitute chicken thighs with breasts or tofu for a vegan option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg