Soy Glazed Chicken

In the realm of weeknight dinners that promise both ease and exquisite flavor, Soy Glazed Chicken stands out as a true champion. For my family, it’s become a staple, a dish we turn to when we crave something comforting yet exciting, simple to prepare but impressive in taste. The first time I made this, the aroma alone was enough to draw everyone to the kitchen, their eyes widening with anticipation. And the taste? Let’s just say plates were cleaned, second helpings were requested, and a new family favorite was born. The beauty of this recipe lies in its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami, all thanks to the magic of a well-crafted soy glaze. It’s incredibly versatile, pairing wonderfully with a variety of sides, and adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this Soy Glazed Chicken recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved part of your repertoire. Get ready to experience a dish that’s not just dinner, but an experience in deliciousness!

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

This Soy Glazed Chicken recipe relies on a handful of key ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating that signature umami-rich, sweet, and savory glaze and perfectly cooked chicken. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Chicken Thighs (Boneless, Skinless): The star of the show! Chicken thighs are preferred for their juicy, flavorful meat and ability to stay moist during cooking, even under the heat of the broiler or grill. You can also use bone-in, skin-on thighs or chicken breasts, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
• Soy Sauce (Low Sodium): The foundation of our glaze, soy sauce provides the essential salty and umami notes. Opting for low sodium soy sauce allows you to control the saltiness of the dish and adjust to your preference.
• Honey (or Maple Syrup): The sweetness component that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and adds a beautiful glossy sheen to the glaze. Honey offers a classic sweetness, while maple syrup provides a slightly more complex, caramel-like note. Agave nectar is another suitable alternative.
• Rice Vinegar: A touch of acidity is crucial to cut through the richness of the soy sauce and honey, adding brightness and depth of flavor. Rice vinegar is mild and slightly sweet, complementing the Asian-inspired flavors perfectly. Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as substitutes in a pinch.
• Fresh Ginger (Grated): Ginger adds a warm, spicy, and aromatic element that is indispensable in Asian cuisine. Freshly grated ginger is best for its vibrant flavor. You can also use ginger paste from a tube for convenience.
• Garlic (Minced): Garlic provides a pungent and savory base note that enhances the overall complexity of the glaze. Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the most robust flavor, but garlic powder can be used as a substitute when needed.
• Sesame Oil (Toasted): A small amount of toasted sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and depth of flavor that elevates the glaze to another level. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly.
• Cornstarch (or Arrowroot Powder): The secret to a thick, glossy glaze! Cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option) acts as a thickening agent, transforming the glaze into a luscious coating for the chicken.
• Water: Used to adjust the consistency of the glaze and ensure it coats the chicken evenly.
• Optional Garnishes: Sesame seeds, chopped green onions, red pepper flakes for added visual appeal and flavor.

Instructions: Crafting Your Perfect Soy Glazed Chicken

Creating this delectable Soy Glazed Chicken is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve chicken that is tender, flavorful, and beautifully glazed:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat Dry: Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it removes excess moisture, allowing the chicken to brown beautifully and absorb the glaze more effectively.
2. Trim Excess Fat (Optional): If desired, trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs. While a little fat is beneficial for flavor and moisture, too much can render out and make the dish greasy.

Step 2: Make the Soy Glaze

1. Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and toasted sesame oil. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
2. Thicken the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) and water until smooth, creating a slurry. This will prevent lumps from forming in the glaze.
3. Simmer and Thicken: Pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan with the glaze mixture. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
4. Cook Until Thickened: Continue to simmer and stir the glaze for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to a syrupy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Be careful not to let it boil vigorously, which can make the glaze too thick or burn.
5. Remove from Heat: Once the glaze has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

You have several options for cooking your chicken, each offering slightly different results. Choose the method that best suits your preferences and equipment:

Option 1: Pan-Frying and Glazing (Stovetop)

1. Heat Oil in Skillet: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil or olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Sear Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor and texture.
3. Pour in Glaze: Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the prepared soy glaze over the chicken in the skillet.
4. Simmer and Glaze: Simmer the chicken in the glaze, turning occasionally to ensure it’s evenly coated and cooked through. Continue to cook for approximately 8-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the glaze has reduced and thickened further, clinging beautifully to the chicken.
5. Baste Frequently: During the last few minutes of cooking, baste the chicken frequently with the glaze to build up a rich, glossy coating.

Option 2: Baking and Glazing (Oven)

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish: Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in a baking dish.
3. Bake Chicken: Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until mostly cooked through.
4. Pour Glaze Over Chicken: Remove the baking dish from the oven and pour the prepared soy glaze evenly over the chicken.
5. Continue Baking and Glazing: Return the baking dish to the oven and continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze has thickened and caramelized slightly. Baste the chicken with the glaze a couple of times during the final baking minutes.
6. Broil for Extra Gloss (Optional): For an extra glossy and slightly caramelized finish, you can broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Option 3: Grilling and Glazing (Outdoor Grill)

1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C).
2. Grill Chicken: Grill the chicken thighs for 4-5 minutes per side, or until nicely marked and partially cooked.
3. Brush with Glaze: Brush the chicken generously with the soy glaze.
4. Continue Grilling and Glazing: Continue to grill the chicken, flipping and basting with the glaze every few minutes, until it’s cooked through and beautifully glazed. This will take approximately another 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken and the heat of your grill. Be mindful of flare-ups due to the sugar in the glaze.
5. Move to Indirect Heat (If Needed): If the glaze is browning too quickly before the chicken is cooked through, move the chicken to indirect heat on the grill and continue cooking until done.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle the cooked Soy Glazed Chicken with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and red pepper flakes (if using) for visual appeal and added flavor.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the Soy Glazed Chicken hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts: A Deliciously Balanced Meal

This Soy Glazed Chicken recipe, while incredibly flavorful and satisfying, can also be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation and paired with healthy sides. Here’s a general overview of the nutrition facts per serving (estimated and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size):

• Serving Size: 1 Chicken Thigh (approx. 4-5 oz cooked chicken)
• Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories per serving. Calories can vary based on the size of the chicken thigh and the amount of glaze consumed. Chicken thighs are naturally higher in calories than chicken breasts due to their fat content, but they also offer more flavor and moisture.
• Protein: Around 30-35 grams of protein per serving. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building, repair, and overall satiety.
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams of fat per serving. The fat content comes primarily from the chicken thighs and the sesame oil in the glaze. While chicken thighs are higher in fat than breasts, they contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered healthier fats.
• Sodium: Around 500-700 mg of sodium per serving. This is primarily due to the soy sauce. Using low sodium soy sauce helps to reduce the sodium content significantly. You can further control sodium by limiting added salt in side dishes.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams of carbohydrates per serving. These carbohydrates mainly come from the honey or maple syrup in the glaze. While this recipe contains some sugar, it’s balanced by protein and fat, which helps to moderate its impact on blood sugar levels.

It is important to note that these are estimated nutritional values and can vary. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time: Quick and Efficient Cooking

One of the great advantages of this Soy Glazed Chicken recipe is its efficient preparation time. Here’s a breakdown:

• Prep Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes patting the chicken dry, trimming (optional), grating ginger, mincing garlic, and whisking together the glaze ingredients. The glaze itself comes together very quickly.
• Cook Time: Approximately 20-35 minutes, depending on the cooking method chosen (pan-frying, baking, or grilling) and the size of the chicken thighs. Pan-frying and grilling tend to be a bit faster than baking.
• Total Time: Approximately 35-55 minutes from start to finish. This makes it an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence but you still want a flavorful and satisfying meal.

How to Serve Soy Glazed Chicken: Versatile Pairing Options

Soy Glazed Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes, making it a fantastic option for creating complete and satisfying meals. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

Classic Asian-Inspired Sides:

• Steamed White Rice or Brown Rice: A simple and classic pairing that soaks up the delicious soy glaze. Brown rice offers added fiber and nutrients.
• Noodles: Serve over egg noodles, ramen noodles, or soba noodles. Toss the noodles with a little sesame oil and chopped green onions for extra flavor.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quickly stir-fry vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, snap peas, carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a healthy and colorful side dish. Add a splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce to complement the glaze.
• Edamame: Steamed or pan-fried edamame (soybeans in pods), sprinkled with sea salt, is a nutritious and easy side dish.
• Kimchi or Pickled Vegetables: The tangy and spicy flavors of kimchi or pickled vegetables provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the soy glaze.

Fresh and Light Sides:

• Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette dressing with ginger and sesame oil.
• Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar is a light and cooling counterpoint to the richness of the chicken.
• Green Salad with Asian Dressing: A mixed green salad with a ginger-sesame dressing adds freshness and lightness to the meal.

Heartier Sides:

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes or Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes or potatoes offer a comforting and slightly sweet side dish that complements the soy glaze.
• Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash provide a comforting and satisfying base for the Soy Glazed Chicken.

Serving Styles:

• Family Style: Place the Soy Glazed Chicken on a platter surrounded by your chosen side dishes and let everyone serve themselves.
• Individual Plates: Arrange a chicken thigh on each plate with a portion of rice or noodles and your chosen vegetable side dish for a more elegant presentation.
• Chicken Bowls: Create delicious and customizable bowls by layering rice or noodles, Soy Glazed Chicken (sliced or shredded), stir-fried vegetables, and your favorite toppings like sesame seeds, green onions, and sriracha mayo.

Additional Tips for Soy Glazed Chicken Perfection

Elevate your Soy Glazed Chicken from good to absolutely spectacular with these helpful tips and tricks:

1. Marinate for Deeper Flavor (Optional but Recommended): While this recipe is delicious even without marinating, for an even more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in some of the glaze for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product. Reserve some glaze for basting and serving.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Chicken thighs are more forgiving than chicken breasts, but it’s still important to avoid overcooking.
3. Adjust Sweetness and Saltiness to Taste: Everyone has different preferences for sweetness and saltiness. Taste the glaze before adding the chicken and adjust the honey (or maple syrup) and soy sauce to your liking. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
4. Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic provide the most vibrant and aromatic flavor. While powdered versions can be used in a pinch, fresh is always best for this recipe.
5. Control the Glaze Thickness: The cornstarch slurry is crucial for thickening the glaze. If you prefer a thinner glaze, use less cornstarch. For a thicker glaze, you can simmer it for a longer time to reduce it further, or add a touch more cornstarch slurry.
6. Baste Frequently for Glossy Chicken: Basting the chicken with the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking is key to achieving that beautiful, glossy, and flavorful coating. Don’t skip this step!
7. Rest the Chicken Before Serving (Optional): While not strictly necessary with chicken thighs, allowing the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving can help to redistribute the juices, resulting in even more tender and flavorful chicken.
8. Get Creative with Garnishes: Sesame seeds and green onions are classic garnishes, but feel free to experiment with other toppings like chopped cilantro, toasted peanuts, or a sprinkle of black sesame seeds for added visual appeal and flavor complexity.

FAQ: Your Soy Glazed Chicken Questions Answered

Still have questions about making the perfect Soy Glazed Chicken? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you along the way:

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, chicken breasts tend to be drier than thighs, so be extra careful not to overcook them. Reduce the cooking time slightly and consider marinating the chicken breasts to help keep them moist.

Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari (a gluten-free soy sauce alternative) and use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch for thickening the glaze. Ensure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free if you have a severe gluten allergy.

Q3: Can I make the soy glaze ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the soy glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the glaze gently in a saucepan or microwave before using. You may need to add a splash of water to thin it out if it becomes too thick upon reheating.

Q4: Can I freeze Soy Glazed Chicken?

A: Cooked Soy Glazed Chicken can be frozen, although the texture of the glaze may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently in the oven, skillet, or microwave.

Q5: What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

A: If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. These alternatives will provide a similar acidity to balance the glaze.

Q6: Can I use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs?

A: Yes, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The skin will become crispy and flavorful.

Q7: How can I make the glaze spicier?

A: To add some heat to the glaze, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze mixture, or stir in a teaspoon of sriracha or gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a deeper, more complex spiciness. You can also garnish with sliced fresh chili peppers when serving.

Q8: What’s the best way to reheat leftover Soy Glazed Chicken?

A: The best way to reheat leftover Soy Glazed Chicken is in the oven or skillet. Reheating in the microwave can sometimes make the chicken slightly rubbery. To reheat in the oven, place the chicken in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. To reheat in a skillet, gently warm the chicken over medium-low heat with a little water or broth to prevent drying out.

With this comprehensive guide and recipe, you’re now fully equipped to create your own delicious Soy Glazed Chicken that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the journey and the delicious results!

Print