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This caramelised soy chicken in garlic ginger broth with rice brings together tender chicken thighs glazed in a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, air-fried until caramelized and served atop fragrant, fluffy rice. The warming garlic and ginger broth adds an aromatic touch that makes this dish a satisfying weeknight favorite.
I first made this dish on a chilly evening looking for something flavorful but fuss-free. It instantly became a go-to for busy nights when I crave something both hearty and elegant.
Ingredients You Need
- 6 boneless chicken thighs: providing juicy richness and absorbing the marinade beautifully
- Soy sauce: for umami depth in both the chicken and broth, opt for a good quality naturally brewed variety
- Sesame oil: delivers a nutty aroma and authentic Asian flair, roasted varieties are a great choice
- Brown sugar: adds the ideal amount of sweetness for caramelising and balancing the savory notes
- Fresh garlic: brings pungent warmth in two forms minced for marinade and sliced for broth
- Fresh ginger: adds a bright spicy zing grating for marinade and sliced into coins for broth infusion
- Low sodium chicken broth: forms a mellow base for the garlic ginger broth, keeping control over saltiness
- Cornstarch: mixed with water as an optional step to thicken the broth into a luscious texture
- Cooked white rice: serves as the comforting foundation soaking up all the delicious juices
- Optional garnishes: of chopped scallions and sesame seeds elevate presentation and flavor
Detailed Cooking Directions
- Build the Marinade:
- Marinate the chicken thighs in soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger for at least 30 minutes. The longer the chicken soaks, the deeper the flavor develops.
- Heat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal roasting and caramelisation.
- Caramelise the Chicken:
- Place marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even caramelisation and a golden crisp exterior.
- Prepare the Broth:
- While the chicken cooks, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, sliced garlic, and ginger coins in a saucepan. Simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes to infuse the flavors deeply.
- Thicken the Broth (Optional):
- If you prefer a slightly thicker broth, add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until it reaches a desirable consistency.
- Plate and Serve:
- Serve the caramelised chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice. Pour the fragrant garlic ginger broth generously over and garnish with scallions or sesame seeds if desired.
One of my favorite memories is when a friend hesitant about air frying was amazed at how delicious and tender the chicken came out. The simple marinade never fails to impress, especially when paired with comforting rice and broth. I always recommend letting the chicken rest a few minutes before serving to seal in all those juices.
Smart Storage Tips
Store leftover chicken and broth separately to keep the chicken from becoming soggy. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture. Cooked rice can be refrigerated for up to four days or frozen in portions for convenience.
Ingredient Variations
Swap chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat but watch cooking time as breasts dry faster. Try using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free, slightly sweeter twist. Add a handful of baby spinach or bok choy to the broth for extra veggies and nutrients.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
A crisp cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds refreshes the palate beautifully. Steamed or roasted snap peas offer a bright, crunchy complement. Finish with a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a little extra kick and texture.
Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute creating a moist and tender bite every time. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a reliable weeknight winner whether you are cooking for family or guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I achieve a caramelised texture on the chicken?
Marinate the chicken thighs well in the soy glaze, then air-fry at a high temperature, flipping halfway to develop an even caramelised crust.
- → Can I use a different cooking method instead of an air fryer?
Yes, pan-searing or oven roasting at a similar temperature can work, but keep an eye to avoid burning the sugar in the glaze.
- → What is the purpose of slices of garlic and ginger coins in the broth?
They infuse the broth with fresh aromatic flavors, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the dish.
- → How thick should the broth be?
The broth can be simmered to reduce naturally, or thickened slightly with a cornstarch slurry for a richer texture.
- → Are there suggested garnishes to complement the dish?
Chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds add a fresh crunch and nutty aroma that elevate the presentation and flavor.