Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you must try this Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice. It’s a comforting blend of tender, caramelised chicken thighs simmered in a fragrant, silky broth bursting with garlic and ginger notes, all paired perfectly with fluffy jasmine rice. Every bite is a savory balance of sweet, salty, and aromatic flavors that come together effortlessly, making it one of those recipes you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, highlighting a handful of essential ingredients that deliver big on flavor and texture. Each component is thoughtfully chosen—from the rich, dark soy sauce that adds depth to the chicken, to the zesty garlic and ginger that make the broth sing. Let’s break down what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.

• 500g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: Perfectly tender and juicy, these cook quickly and soak up all the beautiful marinade flavors.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: This adds the signature umami and saltiness that defines the dish’s caramelized character.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: A tiny drizzle packs a nutty, toasted aroma that elevates the savory notes.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings warmth and depth, brightening the broth with its fragrant punch.
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced: Sharp and fresh, the ginger balances the richness with its slight spicy zing.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar: This is the secret to that luscious caramelised glaze on the chicken.
• 3 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup, providing a comforting base that infuses everything with flavor.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds just the right touch of acidity to brighten the broth.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: Helps thicken the broth into a silky, irresistible sauce.
• 1 cup jasmine rice: Fragrant and fluffy, the ideal bed to soak up all the delicious juices.
• 2 cups water (for rice): Used to cook the jasmine rice to perfection.
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish): Provide a fresh, crisp contrast in texture and a pop of color.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.

How to Make Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting those chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. This simple step is vital for building layers of flavor as the chicken caramelises beautifully later on.

Step 2: Marinate

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Coat the chicken pieces generously in this marinade and let them rest for 10 minutes. The marinade is what transforms plain chicken into a sweet, savory delight.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

While the chicken marinates, rinse your jasmine rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan, add the rice, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook undisturbed for about 15 minutes until all the water is absorbed. Fluff it up with a fork once it’s done so each grain stays light and separated.

Step 4: Sauté Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and sauté them until they develop a gorgeous caramel colour and are cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This caramelisation is where the magic happens, creating that signature flavor profile.

Step 5: Add Broth

Pour in your chicken broth along with the rice vinegar straight into the pot with the chicken. Bring everything to a rolling boil, then lower the heat so it gently simmers, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich garlic and ginger-infused broth.

Step 6: Thicken the Broth

To give the broth a luscious, silky texture, slowly stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Keep stirring as the broth thickens and then let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step ensures your Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice isn’t just flavorful but satisfyingly saucy.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste the broth and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This is your moment to fine-tune the flavors so the broth perfectly complements the caramelised chicken and rice.

Step 8: Serve

Spoon the caramelised chicken and vibrant broth over the fluffy jasmine rice, setting the stage for a comforting and beautifully balanced meal.

Step 9: Garnish

Finish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions for a fresh crunch and a burst of color that makes the dish visually inviting.

How to Serve Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice

Garnishes

Adding fresh sliced green onions on top brings a vibrant pop of color and a mild oniony bite that cuts through the richness. You can also consider a few sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for those who love a little heat.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with simple steamed vegetables like bok choy or snap peas brings a bright, crisp contrast. A side of lightly pickled cucumbers would also add a refreshing tang that balances the deep caramel flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this in individual bowls, layering the jasmine rice first, then ladling the broth and chicken on top for a warm, communal feel. For a fun twist, serve the broth separately as a dipping sauce with rice paper rolls or steamed buns to mix things up at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and broth separately from the rice to maintain the best texture. Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat the broth and chicken over low heat to avoid overcooking, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Warm the rice separately in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive its fluffy texture before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely, chicken breasts will work fine, but thighs offer more juiciness and richness, which really brings out the caramelised flavor in this recipe.

Is jasmine rice the only rice suitable for this dish?

While jasmine rice is ideal for its fragrance and lightness, you can substitute with basmati or even brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

You can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or a mild white vinegar, but keep the quantity the same to maintain the balance of acidity in the broth.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken broth for a flavorful vegetable broth and use tofu or seitan instead of chicken. Marinate and cook similarly to enjoy those lovely caramelised flavors in a vegetarian version.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe isn’t inherently spicy, but you can easily add chili flakes or a dash of chili oil if you want to add some heat to your Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice.

Final Thoughts

This Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice is a real crowd-pleaser and a wonderful recipe to have in your arsenal when you want something that feels both special and comforting. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, full of nuanced flavors, and perfect for sharing, it’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor, and enjoy the magic of homemade cooking. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!

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