Description

Experience the comforting flavors of Caramelized Soy Chicken & Rice with Garlic Ginger, featuring tender boneless chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and savory soy caramel, served over fragrant jasmine or basmati rice infused with fresh garlic and ginger. This quick, simple recipe balances rich umami with bright aromatics for a satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken & Marinade

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
3 tablespoons brown sugar

Rice & Aromatics

1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
2 cups water or chicken broth

For Cooking

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Garnishes & Optional

2 green onions, freshly chopped
Chili flakes (optional, to taste)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade and Rice: In a bowl, mix soy sauce and brown sugar to create a sweet and savory marinade. Pat dry the chicken thighs, then marinate them in the mixture for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to fully infuse. Meanwhile, rinse the jasmine or basmati rice under cold water until clear. Cook the rice with minced garlic and ginger in water or chicken broth until fluffy and aromatic.
Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs, reserving the leftover marinade. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
Caramelize the Sauce: Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet with the chicken. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens into a luscious, sticky glaze that coats the chicken well. Be careful to avoid burning the sugar.
Combine and Finish: Remove the chicken from the skillet once the glaze is thick and sticky. Fluff the garlic-ginger rice with a fork. Serve the rice topped with the caramelized soy chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and optional chili flakes to add color and a spicy kick.

Notes

Pat dry the chicken before marinating to ensure better caramelization and browning.
Do not overcrowd the pan; cook chicken in batches if necessary for optimal searing and crispy edges.
Simmer the sauce gently on low heat to prevent burning the sugar and achieve rich caramelization.
Use fresh ginger and garlic to elevate flavors beyond dried or powdered alternatives.
Allow the chicken to rest a few minutes after cooking to redistribute juices and maintain moisture.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-searing and simmering
Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 900 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: caramelized soy chicken, garlic ginger rice, quick weeknight dinner, savory sweet glaze, comforting meal, gluten-free option