Soy Chicken with Garlic Rice Recipe

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Soy Chicken with Garlic Rice is a delicious, Asian-inspired dish that combines the savory flavors of marinated soy sauce chicken with aromatic garlic rice. It’s a perfect recipe for weeknight dinners, offering a balance of protein and carbs with just the right amount of flavor. Here’s everything you need to create this tasty meal at home.


Soy Chicken with Garlic Rice Recipe Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp grated ginger
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter or cooking oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Optional: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, fresh cilantro

Recipe Directions

  1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, sesame oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, rice vinegar, ginger, and black pepper.
  2. Place the chicken in a ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring each piece is coated.
  3. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
  4. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the rice. In a saucepan, melt the butter (or heat the oil) over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Add the raw rice grains to the saucepan, stirring to coat the grains in garlic.
  6. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add salt if desired. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and keep it covered until serving.
  8. Next, cook the chicken. Preheat a grill pan, skillet, or grill over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
  9. Remove the chicken from the marinade and allow any excess to drip off (reserve marinade if you want to make a sauce).
  10. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For extra flavor, brush the chicken with reserved marinade during the last few minutes of cooking, ensuring it cooks through.
  11. Spoon the garlic rice onto each plate and top with slices of soy chicken.
  12. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro.
  13. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

Recipe Tips

  • Add an extra teaspoon of honey or brown sugar for a sweeter marinade, or balance with a squeeze of lime or lemon juice before serving.
  • Double the marinade ingredients and set some aside before adding the chicken for an extra drizzle over the dish.
  • Use tofu or a vegetarian option, marinating and cooking similarly.
  • Add bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots to the pan when cooking the chicken for added texture and flavor.

Final Note

Soy Chicken with Garlic Rice is a flavorful dish that brings together savory, aromatic ingredients for a satisfying meal. With easy steps and versatile options for customizing sweetness or adding vegetables, it’s a great choice for weeknight dinners. Enjoy this homemade meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful!

For more delicious and nutritious rice recipes, check out our collection.