Soy Garlic Chicken and Rice
A quick and flavorful Soy Garlic Chicken and Rice recipe combining tender chicken soaked in savory soy garlic sauce with fluffy, fragrant rice. This comforting dish balances salty, sweet, and umami notes, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a delicious, fuss-free meal.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1–2 teaspoons vegetable or olive oil
Rice
- 1 cup long grain or jasmine rice, rinsed until water runs clear
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
Garnishes and Extras
- 2 green onions or scallions, sliced thin
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Prep the Ingredients: Mince the garlic cloves and chop the green onions. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces if using. Measure out soy sauce, honey, and oil beforehand to streamline cooking.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
- Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add soy sauce and honey, stirring well and allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly to a glossy consistency.
- Cook the Rice: Rinse rice thoroughly to remove excess starch. Cook rice separately using water or chicken broth according to package instructions. Alternatively, cook rice in the skillet with the chicken and sauce for a one-pan version.
- Combine and Simmer: Return chicken to the skillet with the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors and heat chicken through.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate cooked rice, top with glazed chicken, and garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Choose chicken thighs for juicier meat or breasts for leaner protein.
- Rinse rice well to prevent clumping and ensure fluffiness.
- Adjust sweetness by tasting the sauce before combining with chicken.
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning garlic or sauce.
- Let chicken rest briefly in sauce before serving to deepen flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: Soy Garlic Chicken, Chicken and Rice, Quick Dinner, One-Pan Meal, Weeknight Dinner, Gluten-Free Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipe, Garlic Chicken