After a long day filled with back-to-back meetings, I found solace in the kitchen, craving something warm and soul-soothing. That’s when I stumbled upon my all-time favorite comfort dish: Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice. The rich aroma of ginger mingling with garlic instantly brightened my mood, like a gentle hug on a chilly evening.
This delicious, Asian-inspired one-pot meal combines tender chicken thighs, kissed by a sweet and savory caramel glaze, with a fragrant broth that wraps around fluffy rice beautifully. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a cozy dinner that feels gourmet yet comes together in a snap.
Join me as we whip up this bowl of flavor and comfort that will transform your ordinary evening into a delightful culinary escape!
Why is Caramelised Soy Chicken so comforting?
Warmth and Comfort: There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of this dish to lift your spirits after a long day.
One-Pot Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich Flavor Fusion: The sweet caramel glaze paired with aromatic ginger and garlic creates a delightful depth of flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap chicken for tofu or add in your favorite vegetables for a unique twist.
Effortless Cooking: With just a few simple steps, you can achieve a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the magic of Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice tonight!
Caramelised Soy Chicken Ingredients
• Create a flavor-packed meal with these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken
• Chicken thighs – Juicy and tender, ideal for soaking up the caramelized soy glaze. Use chicken breasts as a substitute but be cautious of overcooking.
• Brown sugar/honey – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a sticky glaze on the chicken. Honey can be substituted with maple syrup for a different flavor.
For the Broth
• Garlic – Provides aromatic depth to the broth. Fresh garlic is recommended; however, garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Ginger – Adds warmth and zing to the broth. If fresh ginger is unavailable, ground ginger can be an alternative, but fresh is preferable for its punchy flavor.
• Chicken broth – Forms the base of the broth, providing savory flavor. Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version.
• Soy sauce – Contributes saltiness and umami to the dish. Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) for a gluten-sensitive option.
• Sesame oil – Adds nuttiness and aroma to the broth. Optional but recommended to enhance flavor.
For Serving
• Rice – Acts as a base to soak up the flavorful broth. Jasmine or basmati rice are both excellent choices.
• Spring onions/fresh herbs – For garnish, add freshness and a pop of color. Feel free to use cilantro or parsley as alternatives.
How to Make Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth
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Prepare Chicken: Slice chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and set them aside. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger to have them ready for the broth.
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Cook Chicken: Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkle with brown sugar (or drizzle with honey), and cook until they turn golden and sticky, about 6–8 minutes.
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Sauté Aromatics: Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate. In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger until they become fragrant and golden, about 2 minutes.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, stirring well to deglaze the pan and lift up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom.
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Simmer Together: Return the chicken to the pan, mixing it with the broth. Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors meld beautifully.
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Cook Rice: While the broth simmers, cook your choice of rice according to package instructions, allowing the fluffy grains to soak up all that delicious broth when served.
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Finish and Serve: Drizzle sesame oil over the broth if using, and garnish with chopped spring onions or fresh herbs. Serve this comforting dish hot over the fluffy rice.
Optional: For an extra touch of flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice just before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice?
This comforting one-pot meal deserves delicious companions to round out your dinner experience.
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Steamed Broccoli: The vibrant green adds a healthy crunch while soaking up the flavorful broth, making each bite satisfying.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: Their crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken, bringing an enjoyable texture and a touch of Asian flair to the table.
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Miso Soup: A light and savory counterpart, the umami from the miso enriches the meal without overwhelming the palate.
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Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch of pickled cucumbers or radish offers a refreshing balance to the rich caramelized flavors of the chicken.
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Garlic Fried Rice: Elevate your meal with aromatic fried rice loaded with garlic; it’s perfect for soaking up that delicious broth.
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Chili Soy Dipping Sauce: A small bowl of this savory sauce invites excitement, allowing everyone to customize their flavor adventure.
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Ice Cream with Ginger Snap Cookies: For dessert, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream paired with crunchy ginger snaps creates a delightful sweet ending, harmonizing with the dish’s ginger warmth.
Make Ahead Options
These Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the chicken thighs, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The broth can be simmered and cooled, then kept airtight in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the broth in a pan until hot, add the chicken, and simmer until cooked through. Finish by cooking the rice and garnishing the dish for that delightful aroma, ensuring a cozy meal with minimal evening effort!
Expert Tips for Caramelised Soy Chicken
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Avoid Overcooking: Monitor your chicken closely, especially if using breasts; aim for a juicy texture and a temp of 165°F (75°C).
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Thickening the Broth: For a richer broth, consider adding a cornstarch slurry. Mix equal parts cornstarch and water, then stir it in for extra thickness.
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Opt for Fresh Ingredients: While dried spices work in a pinch, fresh garlic and ginger have a more vibrant flavor that can elevate your Caramelised Soy Chicken.
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Leftover Storage: To maintain texture, cool the dish completely before refrigerating. Store chicken separate from the broth for best results.
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Customize Your Rice: Use jasmine or basmati rice, but don’t hesitate to try quinoa or brown rice for a healthier twist!
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Leftover Magic: The flavors intensify when reheated, making leftovers an even tastier option the next day!
How to Store and Freeze Caramelised Soy Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Caramelised Soy Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and broth separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. This helps preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth to keep the chicken moist.
Airtight Tips: Always use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and maintain the delicious taste of your Caramelised Soy Chicken.
Caramelised Soy Chicken Variations
Explore delicious tweaks to make this dish your own!
- Vegetarian Swap: Use tofu instead of chicken for a plant-based delight that soaks up the broth beautifully.
- Extra Greens: Toss in mushrooms, spinach, or snap peas during cooking for an explosion of color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add more ginger or fresh chilies to turn up the heat level, creating a zesty experience with every bite.
- Coconut Cream: For a hint of creaminess, stir in coconut cream before serving, enriching the broth with tropical flavor.
- Zingy Citrus: Squeeze in lime or lemon juice right before serving for a refreshing twist that brightens the dish.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle with roasted peanuts or cashews for an irresistible crunch and a nutty flavor variation.
- Broth Boost: Enhance the broth’s depth by adding a dash of fish sauce or oyster sauce for umami richness.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint to elevate the aroma, bringing a unique twist to every bowl.
Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using chicken thighs for their juiciness and tenderness, which absorb the caramelized soy glaze beautifully. If you prefer chicken breasts, you can substitute them, but be careful not to overcook; they may dry out quickly.
How should I store leftovers?
To store your leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the dish is completely cool before sealing to maintain its freshness.
Can I freeze Caramelised Soy Chicken leftovers?
Absolutely! For freezing, I suggest separating the chicken and broth into different freezer-safe containers. This will keep their textures intact. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them, so you know what’s inside!
What if my broth turns out too thin?
If your broth is thinner than you’d like, you can thicken it easily with a cornstarch slurry. Mix equal parts cornstarch and water, then stir it into the simmering broth until you achieve your desired thickness. This added step can give it a heartier consistency!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, if you have dietary restrictions, you can use tamari instead of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free option. For a lighter variation, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. Additionally, feel free to experiment with protein; tofu is a wonderful substitute for a vegetarian dish!
What’s the best rice to pair with this dish?
You can use jasmine or basmati rice for this recipe, as they absorb the broth well. However, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using quinoa or brown rice for added nutrition while still enjoying the same delicious flavors!
Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
- Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkle with brown sugar (or drizzle with honey), and cook until golden and sticky, about 6–8 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate. In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant and golden, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, stirring well to deglaze the pan and lift up any browned bits stuck to the bottom.
- Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes until cooked through and flavors meld.
- Cook rice while the broth simmers according to package instructions.
- Drizzle sesame oil over the broth if using, and garnish with chopped spring onions or fresh herbs. Serve hot over rice.