This yummy dish features caramelized soy chicken swimming in a warm garlic ginger broth, all served over fluffy rice. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl!
I love how the sweet and savory chicken pairs perfectly with the broth. It’s quick to make and great for busy weeknights. Plus, who doesn’t love some rice to soak up all that flavor? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender. If you only have breasts, that’s fine too, just be careful not to overcook them!
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger are key for flavor. You can use garlic powder and ground ginger in a pinch, but fresh is best. I love to grate the ginger for a smoother texture in the broth!
Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce provides the saltiness, while dark soy sauce gives color and depth. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos or tamari (for gluten-free). Adjust the quantity to taste since they can be salty.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness and balances the saltiness. If you want to cut sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup instead, or even a sugar substitute like Stevia.
Rice Vinegar: This adds brightness to the dish. You can use apple cider vinegar or omit it if you don’t have any on hand, but it enhances the flavor!
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing chicken gives it a lovely, rich color and flavor. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps with browning.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to allow each piece to sear well.
- Let the chicken sear undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping to get that nice golden crust.
Keep an eye on the chicken while it cooks; adjusting the heat if it’s browning too fast will yield the best results. Happy cooking!
Caramelized Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Broth:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably light soy sauce)
- 2 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color and depth)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes of preparation and 20 minutes of cooking time. So, you’ll be enjoying your meal in about 35 minutes! Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown on all sides—this should take about 5-6 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing them for about 1-2 minutes until they are fragrant—don’t let them burn!
3. Create the Flavor Base:
Add the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and brown sugar to the minced garlic and ginger. Stir everything together, allowing the sugar to dissolve and caramelize slightly for about 2 minutes. You’re making a delicious sauce here!
4. Add the Broth:
Carefully pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. This step will create the flavorful broth that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
5. Combine and Cook:
Return the browned chicken pieces to the pan. Lower the heat to medium-low and let everything cook together in the broth for about 10 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Final Touches:
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the rice vinegar and sesame oil. Taste your broth and add salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, spoon the caramelized soy chicken along with the broth over warm cooked white rice. Finish off by garnishing with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of goodness!
This recipe combines sweet, savory, and aromatic ginger-garlic flavors into tender chicken with delicious broth, all served over comforting rice. Taste is key, and this dish delivers! Enjoy!
FAQ for Caramelized Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used as a substitute, but be mindful to not overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs. Sear until just cooked through to maintain juiciness!
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, try coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option. Adjust the amount according to taste, as these can vary in saltiness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you like a kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a minced chili pepper when sautéing the garlic and ginger. Adjust the heat to your preference for a delicious twist!
