Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic: Amazing 20-Min Meal

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Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic has become my absolute go-to for a cozy weeknight meal, and I’m so excited to share it with you! I remember the first time I made this, the aroma of garlic and ginger filling my kitchen was just incredible. The chicken thighs get so perfectly tender, bathing in this rich, savory broth, and that slightly sweet, sticky glaze? Pure magic. It’s seriously the best caramelised soy chicken garlic I’ve ever had, and I know you’ll love how easy it is to whip up this comforting dish. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic

Incredible sweet and savory flavors with a hint of garlic
Super quick prep time – ready in under an hour!
A healthier comfort food option, especially using chicken thighs
Budget-friendly ingredients make it perfect for any weeknight
The entire family will devour this delicious dish
This Soy Garlic Chicken Caramelized offers a fantastic sticky texture
It’s a wonderfully comforting meal for chilly evenings
You’ll love how easy this Soy Garlic Chicken Caramelized is to make

Ingredients for Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious meal. This recipe makes a fantastic Garlicky Soy Caramel Chicken that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of soy sauce and brown sugar creates that signature sweet and savory glaze.

4 pieces Chicken Thighs (Bone-in and skin-on) – for maximum flavor and juiciness
2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil – for searing the chicken
1/2 cup Soy Sauce – the savory base of our glaze
2 tablespoons Brown Sugar – adds that essential caramelization
2 tablespoons Ginger (Minced) – for a warming, aromatic kick
4 cloves Garlic (Minced) – essential for that deep, garlicky flavor
4 cups Chicken Broth – creates the rich braising liquid
1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (Optional) – adds a nutty depth
1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Optional) – for thickening the sauce
Salt and Pepper to taste – to season the chicken
2 cups Jasmine Rice – for serving
4 cups Water – to cook the rice
2 cups Chopped Green Onions (for garnish) – for a fresh finish
1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro (for garnish) – adds a bright herbal note

How to Make Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic

Step 1: Pat your chicken thighs thoroughly dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This step is key for achieving that beautiful golden crust we all love.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs, skin-side down, into the hot oil.
Step 3: Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, undisturbed, until the skin is deeply golden brown and wonderfully crispy. The sizzle and aroma at this stage are amazing!
Step 4: Flip the chicken pieces. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger to the pot. Stir everything around the chicken to combine, letting the sugar begin to melt and caramelize slightly.
Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching as the sauce starts to thicken.
Step 6: Cover the pot tightly, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes. This is where the magic happens, making the chicken incredibly tender and infused with flavor.
Step 7: While the chicken is simmering, prepare your jasmine rice. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then combine it with 4 cups of water in a separate pot. Cook covered on low heat for 15-20 minutes until fluffy and tender.
Step 8: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering broth and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon beautifully. This creates that perfect sticky texture for your Sweet Soy Glazed Chicken Garlic.
Step 9: Once the chicken is cooked and tender, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Step 10: Serve your delicious Sweet Soy Glazed Chicken Garlic over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, spooning the rich garlic ginger broth generously over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Pro Tips for the Best Sticky Soy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Want to elevate your Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic game? Follow these tried-and-true tips for an absolutely perfect dish every time!

Always pat your chicken thighs completely dry before searing. This is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy skin.
Don’t overcrowd the pot when searing the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets beautifully golden.
Taste and adjust the seasoning in the sauce before serving. You might want a little more soy sauce or a pinch of sugar depending on your preference.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps keep it incredibly juicy and tender.

What’s the secret to perfect Caramel Soy Chicken with Garlic?

The secret lies in the sear and the simmer! Getting that chicken skin nice and crispy first, then letting it gently braise in the flavorful soy-garlic broth, creates a depth of flavor that makes this Easy Caramelised Soy Garlic Chicken so special.

Can I make Simple Caramelised Soy Garlic Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the chicken and sauce components ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply sear the chicken and combine everything as directed. It’s a great way to simplify weeknight cooking. For more meal prep ideas, check out these delicious recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Homemade Caramelised Soy Garlic Chicken?

Avoid overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. Also, don’t skip patting the chicken dry before searing for crispy skin. Finally, ensure your heat is low and steady during the simmer to prevent the sauce from burning. Understanding the science behind cooking can help prevent these issues; learn more about cooking chicken thighs.

Best Ways to Serve Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic

This incredibly flavorful Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic is so versatile! My favorite way to serve it is over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, just like in the recipe, letting that delicious garlic ginger broth soak into every grain. It’s also fantastic alongside some steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or bok choy to add a fresh crunch. For an even more robust meal, consider serving it with a side of sticky rice or even some simple noodles. You can also use some of the reserved sauce as a dipping sauce or a quick Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic Marinade for grilled vegetables. If you’re looking for more side dish inspiration, consider our zucchini bread or tuscan white beans.

Nutrition Facts for Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving for this delicious Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic dish:

Calories: 400 kcal
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 900 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Soy Garlic Chicken Recipe with Caramel

Leftovers of this amazing Garlic Soy Caramelised Chicken Dinner are fantastic, but proper storage is key! First, let the chicken cool completely to room temperature before packing it away. Store any leftover Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, I find the best way is gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, covered, at 50% power, stirring halfway through for even heating. Just be sure to heat it through until it’s piping hot! For more reheating tips, consider checking out general advice on reheating cooked foods.

Frequently Asked Questions About Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic

What makes this Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic so flavorful?

The magic comes from searing the chicken thighs until they’re golden and crispy, then simmering them in a rich broth infused with plenty of garlic and ginger. The soy sauce and brown sugar create a wonderfully sticky, sweet, and savory glaze that coats everything beautifully. It’s truly a standout dish!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Chicken with Caramelized Soy and Garlic?

While chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and ability to withstand simmering, you can use chicken breast if you prefer. Just be sure to not overcook them; reduce the simmering time to about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. This ensures your Chicken with Caramelized Soy and Garlic remains tender. For other chicken breast recipes, try our Greek chili chicken.

How do I get the sauce thicker for this Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic?

If you prefer a thicker, glossier sauce, the recipe includes an optional cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this into the simmering sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. It will thicken the sauce beautifully for that perfect sticky texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic holds up wonderfully for meal prep. Once cooled, portion it into airtight containers with the rice and sauce. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop, making it a perfect grab-and-go lunch or quick dinner option throughout the week. You might also enjoy our Thai red curry kabobs for another meal prep idea.

Variations of Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Caramelised Soy Chicken Garlic, don’t be afraid to experiment! Here are a few ideas to switch things up and keep your taste buds excited. You can easily adapt this Soy Sauce Caramel Chicken Garlic to fit different dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a swirl of sriracha to the sauce in Step 4 for a touch of heat.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or extra-firm tempeh. Press the tofu well, cube it, and pan-fry until golden before adding it to the sauce.
Citrus Twist: Stir in the juice of half a lime or a tablespoon of orange juice at the end of cooking for a bright, zesty counterpoint to the rich glaze.
Sheet Pan Dinner: Toss chicken thighs with the sauce ingredients and roast on a sheet pan with chopped vegetables like broccoli florets and bell peppers at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. For more sheet pan ideas, check out our bruschetta chicken casserole.