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Caramelized Soy Chicken & Rice with Garlic Ginger

Caramelized Soy Chicken & Rice with Garlic Ginger
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Caramelized Soy Chicken & Rice with Garlic Ginger is a quick and delicious meal featuring tender boneless chicken thighs glazed in a rich, slightly sweet soy sauce reduction infused with aromatic garlic and fresh ginger. Served over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, this dish combines comforting and bold flavors perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken & Sauce

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or neutral oil

Rice

  • 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice

Garnishes

  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Optional: toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Mince the fresh garlic and ginger finely to release maximum aroma. Cut the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and quick caramelization.
  2. Cook the Rice: While prepping the chicken, cook your jasmine or basmati rice according to package instructions until fluffy, which will help absorb the rich sauce.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding the pan, allowing them to brown nicely. Remove when golden and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  4. Build the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Pour in soy sauce and add brown sugar or honey, stirring to dissolve and create a syrupy caramel base.
  5. Combine and Caramelize: Return the seared chicken to the pan, gently tossing to coat all pieces in the caramelized sauce. Cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens and clings beautifully to the chicken.
  6. Final Touch with Sesame Oil: Remove the pan from heat and drizzle sesame oil over the dish to add a rich, nutty finish that elevates the entire flavor profile.
  7. Serve Over Rice: Plate the soy-glazed chicken over the freshly cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and optional toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro for additional flavor and color.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry before cooking to achieve better searing and caramelization.
  • Use fresh garlic and ginger for stronger, more vibrant flavors compared to powders or pastes.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the chicken browns instead of steams.
  • Adjust the amount of brown sugar or honey to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce without overpowering the dish.
  • Cook on medium-high heat for optimal caramelization without burning the sugars.
  • Let the chicken rest for a minute after cooking to allow juices to redistribute and for the sauce to thicken slightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramelized chicken, soy chicken, garlic ginger chicken, quick dinner, one pan meal, comfort food, Asian chicken recipe, gluten free chicken recipe

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/caramelized-soy-chicken-rice-with-garlic-ginger/