Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly balances bold flavor with comforting warmth, then you absolutely must try the Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice. This beautiful combination features tender chicken thighs caramelised to golden perfection, enriched by a fragrant garlic and ginger broth that tastes like a warm hug. Served with fluffy jasmine rice, it’s an irresistibly cozy meal that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe truly shines every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice lies in a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one adds a crucial element—from the sweetness of brown sugar to the smokiness of soy sauce—that together build layers of taste and texture, while the fresh garlic and ginger bring that signature warming aroma and zing.

• 500g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: The star protein, perfect for absorbing the marinade and staying juicy throughout cooking.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a deep, umami richness and saltiness, key for the caramelisation.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Brings a subtle nutty aroma that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic provides pungent, aromatic notes that brighten the broth.
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced: Offers a spicy warmth and freshness that makes the broth so comforting.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances savory with sweet, helping create that irresistible caramelised coating.
• 3 cups chicken broth: Forms the flavorful, nourishing base of the garlic ginger broth.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds acidity to lift and balance the richer flavors.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: Used to thicken the broth for a silky, satisfying texture.
• 1 cup jasmine rice: The fragrant, fluffy foundation for serving all that delicious broth and chicken.
• 2 cups water: For perfectly cooking the jasmine rice tender and light.
• 2 green onions, sliced: Fresh garnishes to add vibrant color and a mild oniony crunch.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to finish the dish perfectly balanced.

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

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, then lightly season with salt and pepper. The marinade is where the magic begins—mix together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar, then toss your chicken pieces in until they’re completely coated. Letting them marinate for about 10 minutes allows all those flavors to penetrate deeply, setting the stage for incredible caramelisation.

Step 2: Cook the Jasmine Rice

While the chicken marinates, rinse your jasmine rice under cold running water until it runs clear—this removes excess starch for a fluffier finish. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan, add the rice, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for around 15 minutes, until the water is fully absorbed. Fluff with a fork and keep warm until you’re ready to serve.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken until Caramelised

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces, spreading them out to avoid overcrowding. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until you see a mouthwatering caramelised golden crust develop. This step builds the bold flavor foundation for the dish and guarantees tender, juicy bites.

Step 4: Add the Garlic Ginger Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and rice vinegar into the pot with your caramelised chicken. Crank the heat to bring everything to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. The garlic and ginger in the broth will infuse the chicken with aromatics that transform every spoonful into something truly special.

Step 5: Thicken the Broth

Slowly add your cornstarch and water mixture while stirring gently to avoid lumps. This step thickens the broth to a luscious, velvety consistency that beautifully coats the caramelised chicken pieces. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, which helps all the flavors marry perfectly.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Give the broth a taste and adjust with more salt or pepper as needed. Sometimes a slight tweak is all that’s needed to hit that ideal harmony of flavors, ensuring your Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice is bursting with deliciousness.

Step 7: Serve

Now for the best part: spoon the tender caramelised chicken and its fragrant broth over your fluffy jasmine rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh and colorful finish that adds a delightful crunch.

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

Garnishes

Garnishing with thinly sliced green onions is a simple yet impactful way to finish this dish. Their mild sharpness contrasts beautifully with the rich broth, and the bright green color makes the dish feel fresh and inviting. Feel free to add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice is quite complete on its own, but you can elevate the meal with some simple sides. A crisp cucumber salad or lightly blanched bok choy tossed with a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil would add refreshing textures and keep the meal balanced and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken and broth in individual bowls with the rice arranged on the side or even molded into neat shapes using small ramekins. You could also drizzle a little chili oil over the top for a spicy kick, or add fresh cilantro leaves to bring in a herbaceous note. Presentation is as much about joy as taste—get creative and enjoy the process!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the rice separate if possible to maintain its texture, then reheat both gently when ready to enjoy again.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, but for best results, freeze the chicken and broth together in a sealed container and the rice separately. When you thaw and reheat, the flavors will remain vibrant, although the rice might need a quick fluff to restore its lightness.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the caramelised soy chicken and garlic ginger broth gently on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. For the rice, sprinkle a few drops of water and microwave covered or gently steam on the stove to bring back its softness without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can! While thighs are naturally juicier and more forgiving, chicken breasts will work fine if you’re careful not to overcook them. Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and keep an eye on the sautéing time.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken for firm tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The marinade and the garlic ginger broth will still deliver plenty of flavor, creating a wonderful plant-based alternative.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Definitely! Adding a dash of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil during the cooking or as a garnish can easily bring some heat. Adjust to your spice tolerance and enjoy the added kick.

What type of rice pairs best with this dish?

Jasmine rice is perfect because of its fragrant aroma and light, fluffy texture, which soaks up the flavorful broth beautifully. Basmati rice could also be a good substitute if you prefer a slightly different texture.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

From start to finish, including marinating and cooking rice, you’re looking at about 45 minutes. It’s a fantastic recipe to make when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend enough giving this Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice a try. It’s one of those dishes that feels special and comforting all at once, perfect for sharing around the table or indulging in a cozy solo dinner. With its wonderful balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors, this recipe quickly becomes a treasured favorite. So gather your ingredients and dive in—you’re going to love every single bite!

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