Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe moment the chicken hits the pan, a fragrance fills the air that instantly transports me to a bustling Asian street market. My Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth is not just another dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Tender, juicy chicken thighs simmer in a rich, umami-packed broth, marrying the sweetness of honey with the sharpness of garlic and ginger. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something effortless yet delicious, and its versatility means you can easily adapt it to suit vegetarian tastes if you’re looking for a fun twist. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring a cozy meal at home, this recipe enchants the senses and promises to create lasting memories. Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into the cooking bliss! Why is this Chicken Recipe a Must-Try? Flavor Explosion: The rich combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering experience, ensuring every bite is packed with savory delight. Quick & Easy: With minimal prep, you can whip up this comforting meal in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights. Versatile Options: Not a chicken fan? Swap in firm tofu or seasonal veggies for a vegetarian twist that’s equally satisfying. Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for gatherings or family dinners, sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Pair it with a side of fresh salad for a balanced meal! For more chicken recipes, check out my Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Garlic Chicken Thighs. Rich Cultural Taste: Bringing a flair of Asian cuisine into your home, this dish creates an authentic experience right in your kitchen. Caramelised Soy Chicken Ingredients • Note: Gather these essentials to whip up my delicious Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth! For the Chicken Boneless Chicken Thighs – Use thighs with some fat for juiciness and rich flavor. Soy Sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; substitute with tamari for gluten-free. Dark Soy Sauce – Adds depth of flavor and color; can replace with more regular soy sauce if needed. Vegetable Oil – For sautéing until caramelized; can use canola or grapeseed oil. For the Broth Chicken Broth – Forms the flavorful base of the dish; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Garlic (minced) – Offers robust flavor; fresh is best, but powdered can work in a pinch. Fresh Ginger (grated) – Adds warmth and spice; ground ginger can substitute, but the flavor differs. Rice Vinegar – Balances the dish with acidity; apple cider vinegar is a good alternative. Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness to balance flavors; coconut sugar is a lower glycemic alternative. Honey – Enhances sweetness and complexity; maple syrup can be used for a vegan option. Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty aroma; optional if not available. For Serving Cooked White Rice – Acts as the comforting base; brown rice can be a healthier substitute. Green Onions – Adds color and a mild onion flavor; chives work in a pinch. Sesame Seeds – Offers crunch and visual appeal; crushed peanuts can provide a different texture. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice Step 1: Prepare Marinade In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of dark soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar until the sugar dissolves. This aromatic marinade is essential for the Caramelised Soy Chicken, balancing sweetness and umami. Set it aside while you prepare the chicken. Step 2: Marinate Chicken Coat 4 boneless chicken thighs generously with the marinade, ensuring all sides are well-covered. For the most flavorful results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes; however, refrigerating for up to 2 hours will deepen the flavor profile. You’ll notice the chicken soaking up the marinade beautifully as it rests. Step 3: Sear Chicken Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken thighs and sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn a golden brown and are thoroughly cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set them aside, letting their juices settle while you prepare the broth. Step 4: Sauté Aromatics In the same pan, add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Sauté these aromatics for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become fragrant but avoid browning them to prevent bitterness. This step will infuse your broth with a robust flavor that makes the Caramelised Soy Chicken irresistible. Step 5: Make Broth Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate any flavorful bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it reduce slightly for about 5 minutes. The broth should have a rich aroma as it melds with the sautéed garlic and ginger, creating a savory base for your chicken. Step 6: Serve Slice the seared chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and return them to the simmering broth to warm through for 2-3 minutes. Prepare bowls of fluffy cooked white rice and ladle the aromatic broth with chicken over the top. Garnish generously with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a delightful crunch, making your Caramelised Soy Chicken a feast for the senses. Caramelised Soy Chicken Variations & Substitutions Feel free to customize this recipe and add your own personal touch to elevate your dish! Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken thighs with firm tofu or diced seasonal vegetables for a delicious, meatless meal. The tofu absorbs all the lovely flavors from the marinade and broth, creating a satisfying dish that still feels hearty. Gluten-Free: Use tamari in place of soy sauce if gluten-free is a must. This simple swap keeps all the umami flavor while catering to any dietary needs. Healthier Rice: Swap white rice for brown rice to add more fiber and nutrients to your meal. The nuttier flavor of brown rice pairs well with the rich broth and adds a delightful texture. Flavor Booster: Experiment with adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the marinade for a citrusy twist. This bright addition uplifts the dish, bringing a fresh, tangy note that dances on your palate. Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a fiery element that elevates the dish from cozy comfort to a hot sensation! Adjust the heat level to your taste by either adding more or less. Alternative Sweeteners: Replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option. Each provides a unique flavor profile that complements the savory elements beautifully. Broth Variations: Use coconut milk instead of chicken broth for a richer, creamy texture. This twist adds a distinct tropical flavor that makes your dish feel even more indulgent. Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil right before serving to add a refreshing finish. The vibrant herbs not only look beautiful but also enhance the overall flavor with additional complexity. For more delicious chicken recipes, don’t miss my BBQ Chicken Mac or Chicken Green Bean Stir-Fry. Enjoy creating your own version of the Caramelised Soy Chicken! What to Serve with Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth Elevate your dining experience by complementing this aromatic dish with delightful sides that enhance its rich flavors. Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable brings a lovely crunch and a mild flavor, creating a beautiful visual contrast on your plate. Its nutritional boost will keep you feeling great! Coconut Jasmine Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut infuses the rice, perfectly balancing the savory broth while adding a tropical twist to the meal. This fragrant side is simply irresistible! Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing blend of cucumber, sesame oil, and rice vinegar adds a crisp and zesty element that brightens up the whole meal. The coolness helps to cut through the richness of the chicken. Miso Soup: This classic Japanese soup offers a soothing earthy flavor, enhancing the Asian theme of your meal. Its warmth and lightness make it a comforting counterpart to the chicken’s richness. Garlic Naan: Soft and buttery, garlic naan makes for an indulgent side that you can use to soak up the broth. It adds a delightful textural contrast and satisfies those bread cravings. Bubble Tea: A fun drink option that adds a touch of sweetness and excitement. The chewy tapioca pearls provide a delightful texture while pairing beautifully with the savory dish. Fruit Tart: For dessert, a light and fruity tart offers a sweet conclusion to your meal. The freshness of seasonal fruits will cleanse your palate and leave you with a memorable finish. Tips for the Best Caramelised Soy Chicken Marination Time: Allow chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes; for intensified flavor, refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Perfect Searing: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding chicken; a good sear develops a delicious caramelized crust that enhances the dish. Aromatics Care: Be cautious while sautéing garlic and ginger; avoid letting them burn, as this can create a bitter taste in your Caramelised Soy Chicken. Broth Consistency: When simmering the broth, keep an eye on it to avoid over-reduction; a balanced broth is key to a rich, flavorful base. Rice Cooking: For a fluffy texture, rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring it complements the dish beautifully. Make Ahead Options These Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth meal prep options are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance by coating them in the marinade and refrigerating, which enhances the flavors beautifully. Additionally, you can sauté the garlic and ginger ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the broth and add the marinated chicken, simmering until heated through. This way, you retain the delicious flavors and textures, making your meal just as delightful as if you cooked it fresh! How to Store and Freeze Caramelised Soy Chicken Fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. This keeps your Caramelised Soy Chicken fresh while preserving its delightful flavors. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to 3 months; just be sure to label them for easy identification. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to revive the flavors and moisture. Avoiding Texture Loss: If freezing, it’s best to separate the chicken from the broth to maintain texture. Mix them again when reheating for a cozy meal. Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select chicken thighs for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing boneless chicken thighs, look for ones with a bit of marbling and fat. They should feel firm and moist, rather than dry. If you notice dark spots all over, it’s best to skip those. Fresh, plump thighs will yield the juiciest results! How long can I store leftover Caramelised Soy Chicken? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh and flavorful, ensure the container is sealed properly. When reheating, do so gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture. Can I freeze Caramelised Soy Chicken? How should I do it? Yes, you can freeze your Caramelised Soy Chicken! To do this, allow it to cool completely, then place it in airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. For reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm it on the stove, mixing in a splash of broth for added moisture. What should I do if my chicken is not caramelizing properly? If your chicken isn’t caramelizing as expected, check that your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. You should hear a sizzle when it hits the pan! Also, resist the urge to move the chicken around too much; let it sit for those first few minutes to develop a nice golden crust. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Very! This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. If you’re concerned about allergies, ensure all ingredients, like the broth, are free from allergens. And for a vegetarian option, substitute chicken thighs with firm tofu or seasonal vegetables, which can be just as delicious! Can I add more spices or vegetables to this recipe? The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like chili flakes for heat or toss in seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas during the broth-making stage for added nutrition and color. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep everything fresh and vibrant! Caramelised Soy Chicken: A Cozy Flavor Explosion at Home Experience the rich umami of Caramelised Soy Chicken, a comforting dish combining tender chicken thighs with garlic and ginger broth. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsMarination Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AsianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Boneless Chicken Thighs Use thighs with some fat for juiciness and rich flavor.¼ cup Soy Sauce Provides umami and saltiness; substitute with tamari for gluten-free.2 tablespoons Dark Soy Sauce Adds depth of flavor and color.2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil For sautéing until caramelized.For the Broth2 cups Chicken Broth Forms the flavorful base of the dish; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.2 teaspoons Garlic (minced) Offers robust flavor; fresh is best.1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (grated) Adds warmth and spice.1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar Balances the dish with acidity.2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Provides sweetness to balance flavors.1 tablespoon Honey Enhances sweetness and complexity.1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Adds a nutty aroma.For Serving2 cups Cooked White Rice Acts as the comforting base; brown rice can be a healthier substitute.2 tablespoons Green Onions Adds color and a mild onion flavor.1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds Offers crunch and visual appeal. Equipment SkilletMedium bowlMeasuring cupsMeasuring spoons Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of dark soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar until the sugar dissolves.Coat 4 boneless chicken thighs generously with the marinade, ensuring all sides are well-covered. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes.Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.In the same pan, add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate flavors. Simmer for about 5 minutes.Slice the seared chicken thighs and return them to the broth to warm through for 2-3 minutes. Serve over cooked white rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, marinate chicken for up to 2 hours. Avoid burning garlic and ginger to prevent bitterness. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
