Hey y'all! If you're craving the ultimate comfort food that's bursting with sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors, this Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice is exactly what you need. Perfect for laid-back family dinners, cozy date nights, or impressing friends, this recipe delivers juicy caramelized chicken nestled in a fragrant garlic-ginger broth over fluffy rice. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
- Sweet, savory, and umami-packed, this dish satisfies every craving.
- Ready in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- The garlic-ginger broth is soothing and full of depth, perfect for sipping.
- Pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice for a complete meal.
- Easily customizable for gluten-free or lighter options.
Ingredients for Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ¼ cup (60ml) low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-inch piece ginger, peeled and finely grated
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cups (720ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup jasmine or long-grain white rice
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (optional, for garnish)
Directions: How to Make Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the fridge for extra flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- While the chicken marinates, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions. Fluff and set aside.
Step 3: Caramelise the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil and sesame oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and add to the skillet.
- Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and caramelized. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 4: Build the Garlic Ginger Broth
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the reserved marinade, chicken broth, rice vinegar, and fish sauce (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Return caramelised chicken to the skillet. Simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and broth is slightly reduced.
- Serve chicken and broth over rice. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy!

Notes for Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
- For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge.
- You can swap jasmine rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option. Check out this rice cooking guide for tips.
- Don’t skip the searing step—this creates caramelisation for maximum flavor.
Variations of Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
- Spicy Version: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce or a diced red chili to the broth.
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and double-check all labels.
Required Equipment for Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions for Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Rice is best stored separately to prevent sogginess.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve with lightly steamed bok choy or sautéed greens for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a crisp Asian-style cucumber salad or pickled vegetables for contrast.
- A glass of chilled white wine or jasmine tea complements the flavors beautifully.
Pro Tips for Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
- Sear the chicken in batches if your pan is small to avoid overcrowding and ensure proper caramelisation.
- Let the broth simmer uncovered to concentrate the flavors and thicken slightly.
- If you’re new to cooking with ginger, this ginger prep guide is super helpful.
FAQ: Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
- Yes, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, reduce simmering time to avoid dryness.
- Can I make this recipe ahead?
- Absolutely! Prepare up to 2 days ahead and reheat before serving; add a splash of broth as needed.
- Is this dish freezer-friendly?
- Yes, freeze the chicken and broth together for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently. Cook fresh rice when serving.
For more information about the health benefits of chicken, check out Harvard's nutrition guide.
Ingredients
- 600g boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 200g jasmine rice
- 2 spring onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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1In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with soy sauce and brown sugar. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
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2Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned and caramelised on both sides, about 6-8 minutes.
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3Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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4Pour in chicken broth and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 20 minutes until chicken is tender and broth is flavorful.
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5Meanwhile, cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
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6Serve caramelised soy chicken and garlic ginger broth over steamed rice. Garnish with sliced spring onions.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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