If there’s one dish that embodies love in a bowl, it’s this **Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice**. Imagine tender chicken thighs glistening in a caramelized soy glaze, resting in a fragrant broth that intertwines ginger and garlic, all over a bed of perfectly cooked jasmine rice. It’s comfort, elevated.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of soy sauce with caramelized brown sugar creates an irresistible glaze around the chicken.
- Comforting and Homely: The aromatic garlic ginger broth warms you from the inside out, providing a comforting meal.
- Customizable: This recipe is incredibly adaptable, ready to fit everyone’s taste buds and dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, from the nutrient-packed chicken to the aromatic garlic and ginger. Let’s dive into these essentials that elevate the dish to new heights.
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Soy Sauce: Creates a savory umami base, rich and deep.
- Brown Sugar: Balances the soy sauce with sweetness, making that delectable glaze.
- Ginger & Garlic: These two are a dynamic duo, adding warmth and fragrance.
- Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, it absorbs the flavors of the broth beautifully.
Variations
Personalize your **Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice** with these easy modifications. Don’t be shy; make it your own based on what’s available in your kitchen or your current cravings!
- Spicy Kick: Add some sliced chili or a dash of chili flakes to the broth for an extra heat kick.
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap out chicken for firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How to Make Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Begin by patting your chicken thighs dry; this simple act ensures that they’ll crisp up nicely. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Trust me, each bite will thank you for this generous seasoning.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a roomy pot or skillet, warming the oil until it’s shimmering makes a perfect base for the glorious sear on our chicken. Make sure the pan is hot enough—this is what gives you that coveted crispy skin!
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Lay the chicken skin-side down and resist the temptation to move them too soon. In 5-7 minutes, you’ll have a golden crisp skin that will make you wonder why you ever cooked it any other way.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger directly into that divine pool of flavors. Stirring melds these ingredients into a sauce that starts to caramelize and thicken, enveloping your chicken beautifully.
Step 5: Add Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, immersing your flavorful concoction. A gentle boil pulls everything together in a symphony of taste, ready to become your perfect broth.
Step 6: Simmer
Now is the time to let the flavors mingle and marinate, covered for about 20 minutes. The chicken will become tender and succulent, poised to fall off the bone with the slightest nudge.
Step 7: Cook the Rice
While the chicken simmers away, rinse the jasmine rice until the water is clear. This step ensures your rice is fluffily separated rather than clumpy.
Step 8: Prepare the Rice
Bring the rice to a boil with water, popping the lid on to let it simmer down until it’s the perfect fluffy pillow for your chicken and broth.
Step 9: Thicken the Broth (Optional)
If desired, mix a cornstarch slurry and add it into the broth, cooking for just a bit longer until it reaches that thicker, almost luscious consistency.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is ready, dish it all up over the rice, ladle the broth, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh green onions and cilantro for a refreshing touch.
Pro Tips for Making Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
- Crispier Chicken: Always pat your chicken dry before searing to achieve that glorious crispy skin.
- Aromatic Broth: Sauté the garlic and ginger briefly before adding to the pot for an even more intense aroma.
- Balance the Flavors: Taste and adjust the soy and sugar ratio in your sauce to suit your preferences—go with what your taste buds love most!
- Rice Perfection: Let the cooked rice sit covered for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork for the best texture.
How to Serve Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
Garnishes
For that extra touch, garnish with freshly chopped green onions or cilantro. It adds a pop of color and a fresh taste that balances the richness of the dish.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a simple cucumber salad or steamed bok choy to add a refreshing and light counterpart, keeping the meal balanced and delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
Present in large shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant green garnishes and golden chicken. For a fancy twist, serve with chopsticks for an authentic feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When stored properly, the flavors will deepen and taste even better the next day.
Freezing
Freeze the chicken and broth separately from the rice for up to 3 months. This separation keeps the rice from becoming mushy when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to return it to its lovely, saucy state.
FAQs
-
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more flavor and moisture, chicken breast is a leaner alternative. Just adjust cooking times as needed to prevent dryness.
-
Is there a gluten-free version of this dish?
Yes, simply substitute gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for regular soy sauce, and you’re good to go!
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How can I make it vegetarian?
Replace chicken with tofu or hearty mushrooms, and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth for a flavorful vegetarian option.
-
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can make the broth and chicken a day or two in advance. Reheat slowly and serve with freshly cooked rice for best results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the mood for a bowl of happiness that whispers homemade goodness with every bite, then you simply must try this **Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice**. It wraps you in warmth and love, making it perfect for cozy nights in or sharing with loved ones. I’m confident it’ll become a household favorite! Enjoy!
PrintCaramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice is a comforting, flavorful meal featuring tender, crispy chicken thighs simmered in a sweet soy glaze and savory broth. Paired with fluffy jasmine rice and garnished with fresh herbs, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner that balances umami, sweetness, and aromatics for a satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce and Broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Rice and Garnishes
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 4 cups water
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot oil. Cook without moving for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Add soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger directly into the pan. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and well coated.
- Add Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Cook the Rice: While the chicken simmers, rinse jasmine rice under cold water until clear. In a separate pot, combine rice and water, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 15-20 minutes until fluffy.
- Thicken the Broth (Optional): Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then stir into the broth. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Remove chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken thighs, then serve over the cooked rice with broth ladled over. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar to taste.
- Ensure the chicken skin is crisped properly to add texture.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice before serving.
- Use a deep skillet or Dutch oven for best results in simmering and searing.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1plate (chicken with rice and broth)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg