I love simple meals that taste like comfort and take little fuss. My Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice is just that: sweet, savory, and warm. I share this when I want a quick dinner that still feels special, and I often point friends to a bolder noodle dish I made before, like my take on fiery chicken ramen for more flavor ideas.
Dad James always asked for extra sauce, so I learned to make a pan sauce that shines in this recipe. He would call it a hug in a bowl.
What You’ll Need
- Chicken thighs
- Soy sauce
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Chicken broth
- Rice
- Green onions
- Sesame oil
- Brown sugar
- Pepper
My Trusted Kitchen Tools
I like a heavy pot for the broth and a good pair of tongs for searing the chicken. If you ever want to try smoked chicken, I also wrote a guide on how to smoke chicken thighs without rubbery skin that helps with texture and flavor.
Bringing It All Together
- Mix soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and brown sugar in a bowl.
- Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat sesame oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Remove chicken from the marinade and sear both sides until golden.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Cook rice separately according to package directions.
- Serve the caramelised chicken over rice and top with sliced green onions and a pinch of pepper.

Making It Your Own (Swaps & Ideas)
If you love roasted garlic flavors, you can try a similar twist on other dishes like Greek white pizza with spinach and roasted garlic for a different meal night. Swap chicken thighs for boneless pieces, add a splash of rice vinegar for brightness, or stir in a spoonful of chili paste if you want heat.
How We Love to Serve It
I plate this over steaming rice and spoon the broth over the top. A small bowl of steamed greens or quick pickles on the side keeps the meal bright. Leftovers also go well in wraps or over noodles for lunch.
A Few Tips For Success
Marinate at least 30 minutes for good flavor. Sear well to build color before simmering. Taste the broth near the end and add a little more brown sugar or soy sauce if you want it sweeter or saltier.
Saving Some For Later
Cool the chicken and broth quickly and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze portions in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating on the stove.
From My Kitchen to Yours
I hope this recipe brings comfort to your table like it does to mine. I keep the steps small and the flavors big so you can make it any night and feel proud.
Your Questions, Answered
How long should I marinate the Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice?
I recommend at least 30 minutes, but you can marinate up to 4 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
Can I make the Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice ahead of time?
Yes. Make the chicken and broth, cool it, and store in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove and cook fresh rice when you serve.
Can I use boneless chicken for Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice?
You can. Boneless will cook faster, so check it after 10 to 15 minutes of simmering to avoid overcooking.
Print
Caramelised Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A sweet and savory comfort meal featuring chicken thighs simmered in a rich garlic ginger broth served over rice.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup rice
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Mix soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and brown sugar in a bowl.
- Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat sesame oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Remove chicken from the marinade and sear both sides until golden.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Cook rice separately according to package directions.
- Serve the caramelised chicken over rice and top with sliced green onions and a pinch of pepper.
Notes
Marinate at least 30 minutes for good flavor. Sear well to build color before simmering. Taste the broth near the end and adjust sweetness or saltiness as desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, rice, comfort food, easy dinner
