As the cool evening air swirls around my kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the familiar, inviting aroma wafting from the stove. There’s something truly soul-soothing about Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Jasmine Rice; it’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug after a long day. Imagine juicy chicken thighs, perfectly seared to golden perfection, swimming in a rich, savory broth tinged with the aromatic heat of ginger and the comforting warmth of garlic.
This delightful one-pot wonder is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re looking to impress at a cozy dinner or simply seeking comfort food that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen, this recipe is your answer. Quick, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious, it has all the makings of a family favorite. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious comfort meal that turns a regular weeknight into something special!
Why is Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice a must-try?
Comforting Feel: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying.
One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple dishes—everything cooks together in one pot, saving you time on cleanup!
Flavor Explosion: The harmony of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a savory broth that your taste buds will adore.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s fantastic for busy weeknights when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress and provide that cozy vibe everyone loves.
For more comforting dishes like this, check out our collection of easy one-pot meals.
Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create this comforting masterpiece.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Bone-in and skin-on for juicy, flavorful meat.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for searing and achieving that crispy skin.
For the Broth
• Soy Sauce – Adds depth and umami flavor to the broth; can switch to tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with a hint of sweetness.
• Ginger (Minced) – Provides aromatic heat; fresh ginger is recommended for best flavor.
• Garlic (Minced) – Delivers warmth and richness; fresh garlic enhances the overall taste.
• Chicken Broth – The flavorful base of your broth; use low-sodium or homemade if possible.
• Sesame Oil – Optional, for a nutty finish; swap for more vegetable oil if unavailable.
• Cornstarch – Optional thickening agent for a heartier broth; mix with water before adding.
• Salt and Pepper – Adjust to taste for that perfect seasoning.
For the Rice
• Jasmine Rice – Its delicate texture complements the broth beautifully; basmati or long-grain can be used as substitutes.
• Water – Necessary for cooking the rice, ensuring perfectly fluffy grains.
For Garnish
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh, colorful addition for garnish that offers a light onion flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro – A bright, flavorful touch; substitute with parsley if needed.
Get ready to create a bowl of warm, savory bliss with this Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice!
How to Make Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth
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Prep the Chicken: Pat dry and season both sides of chicken thighs with salt and pepper. This step ensures maximum flavor and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust.
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Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high. You want the oil shimmering, which indicates it’s ready for searing.
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Sear the Chicken: Place chicken skin-side down; cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy. Don’t rush this step; a proper sear creates a delicious texture.
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Make the Sauce: Flip chicken, then add soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add Chicken Broth: Pour in chicken broth; make sure the chicken is submerged. Bring to a gentle boil, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
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Simmer: Cover and reduce heat to low; simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is tender and juicy. This slow cooking allows the flavors to deepen.
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Cook the Rice: Rinse rice until water runs clear; in a separate pot, combine rice with water and cook covered on low for 15-20 minutes for fluffy perfection.
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Thicken the Broth (Optional): If desired, mix cornstarch with water to create slurry; stir in and cook until thickened for a heartier broth.
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Garnish and Serve: Slice the chicken after resting; serve over rice with broth, garnishing with green onions and cilantro for that fresh, vibrant touch.
Optional: Drizzle a little sesame oil over the top for an extra nutty flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This delicious Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth keeps well and will continue to develop flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and broth in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely before freezing to maintain quality.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the broth thickens, add a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency.
Rice Storage: Store any leftover jasmine rice in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a little water to restore moisture.
Caramelised Soy Chicken Variations
Embrace the joy of personalizing your meal by exploring these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
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Lean Option: Substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts for a lighter dish while still enjoying the rich flavors.
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Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth to keep all the comforting flavors without meat.
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Nutty Flavor: Drizzle in extra sesame oil after cooking to intensify the nutty essence—perfect for sesame lovers!
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Veggie Loaded: Toss in fresh vegetables like bok choy, snap peas, or bell peppers during the simmer for added nutrition and color.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in sliced chili peppers or a dash of sriracha for those who crave a bit of heat to complement the savory broth.
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Zesty Twist: Add a splash of lime juice or zest at the end for a delightful tang that brightens every bite.
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Grain Alternative: Swap jasmine rice for quinoa or farro for a different texture and flavor profile that still pairs beautifully with the broth.
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Sweet Touch: Include some diced pineapples or mango chunks during the simmer for a hint of sweetness that balances the savory broth beautifully.
What to Serve with Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice?
Transform your comforting dish into a well-rounded meal that’s bursting with flavor and balance.
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Steamed Broccoli: A vibrant green side that offers a lovely crunch and lightness, perfectly complementing the rich broth.
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Garlic Naan: Soft, pillowy naan with a hint of garlic provides an excellent contrast to the savory chicken, perfect for dipping in the broth.
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Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles cut through the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing zip that brightens every bite.
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Sesame Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans with sesame seeds introduce a nutty flavor and a satisfying snap, enhancing the overall texture of your meal.
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Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with thinly sliced cucumbers, red onion, and a splash of rice vinegar creates a refreshing balance to the warmth of the chicken.
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Chili Oil: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, drizzle some chili oil over the dish. Its spice elevates the flavors in the broth, making every mouthful exciting.
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Asian Pear Dessert: End on a sweet note with thinly sliced Asian pears; their natural sweetness and crispness cleanse the palate after the savory meal.
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Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea pairs beautifully, offering a soothing finish that complements the ginger and garlic in the broth.
Make Ahead Options
These Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can marinate the chicken in the soy sauce mixture, allowing it to soak in flavor for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the garlic and ginger, storing them together in an airtight container for 3 days. To ensure the chicken remains juicy and tender, sear it fresh before adding to the broth. When it’s time to serve, simply cook the rice and reheat the broth for that warm, comforting meal that feels just as delicious as when freshly prepared.
Expert Tips for Caramelised Soy Chicken
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Sear to Perfection: Ensure to sear the chicken skin-side down without moving it for the best golden brown crust. This locks in juice and flavor!
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Watch the Internal Temp: For safety and taste, adjust simmering time until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Tender chicken is the goal!
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Rinse Rice Thoroughly: Rinsing the jasmine rice until the water runs clear helps remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy, non-sticky rice that pairs perfectly with the broth.
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Customize the Heat: If you crave a kick, gently stir in sliced chili peppers to the broth for a delightful spicy contrast to the rich flavors of the Caramelised Soy Chicken.
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Save Time on Cleanup: Use a large pot for both chicken and broth to simplify your prep. This one-pot dish not only tastes divine but also minimizes washing up!
Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken thighs, look for ones that are bone-in and skin-on, as these cuts provide the best flavor and juiciness. Ensure the chicken is bright pink and free from any dark spots or foul odor. If you prefer a leaner option, feel free to use chicken breasts instead, but keep in mind they may dry out quicker.
How should I store leftover Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making your next meal even more delicious. If you don’t finish it within that time frame, you can freeze the chicken and broth in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing!
Can I freeze Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, transfer the chicken and broth into an airtight, freezer-safe container. Be sure to label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if the consistency thickens too much.
What if my broth doesn’t thicken as expected?
Very often, if your broth seems thin, it’s an easy fix! Mix about 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering broth, cooking for another few minutes until it thickens to your satisfaction. This step can give your broth a heartier texture, customizing it to your taste!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you have any gluten sensitivities, ensure to use tamari instead of soy sauce, which makes your Caramelised Soy Chicken gluten-free. Also, for those who may be allergic to sesame, you can skip the sesame oil altogether or replace it with additional vegetable oil. Always double-check ingredients if you or your guests have particular allergies.
How long does cooked jasmine rice last in the fridge?
Yes! Cooked jasmine rice can last in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. If you find leftover rice drying out, simply sprinkle a few drops of water over it before reheating in the microwave to bring back some of that fluffy texture. Enjoy your cozy dish later and savor those delightful flavors!
Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth: Cozy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat dry and season both sides of chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high.
- Place chicken skin-side down; cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Flip chicken, then add soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir to combine.
- Pour in chicken broth; make sure the chicken is submerged.
- Cover and reduce heat to low; simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is tender.
- Rinse rice until water runs clear; combine rice with water and cook covered on low.
- If desired, mix cornstarch with water to create slurry; stir in and cook until thickened.
- Slice the chicken after resting; serve over rice with broth, garnishing with green onions and cilantro.