Soy Glazed Chicken

Enjoy the savory sweetness of Soy Glazed Chicken, a dish that brings together tender chicken thighs and a rich marinade of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare and delivers an explosion of flavors that will impress your family and friends. The combination of grilling and glazing creates a delightful texture that makes this dish stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soy glazed chicken recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The marinade infuses the chicken with sweet and savory notes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with steamed rice, over a salad, or as part of a larger feast.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and made from wholesome ingredients like garlic and ginger, it’s a nutritious choice.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a family dinner or a backyard barbecue, this dish is sure to impress guests.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soy glazed chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Basting brush
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving those perfect grill marks while cooking the chicken evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Makes it easy to combine all the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Basting brush: Helps in applying the reserved marinade at the end for added flavor and sheen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• Sesame seeds

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How to Make Soy Glazed Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium heat and lightly oil the surface.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place them on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through with nice grill marks.

Step 4: Baste with Marinade

During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with reserved marinade to enhance flavor and create a glossy finish.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken and arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve warm with steamed rice or over a salad. Enjoy!

How to Serve Soy Glazed Chicken

Serving soy glazed chicken is a delightful experience, as it combines rich flavors and appealing visuals. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing your meal with delicious accompaniments.

On a Bed of Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The aromatic nature of jasmine rice complements the savory soy glaze beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds nuttiness and fiber to your plate.

In a Salad

• Crisp Garden Salad: Toss fresh greens with the sliced chicken for a refreshing contrast.
• Asian Noodle Salad: Combine cold noodles and vegetables for a flavorful twist that pairs well with the glaze.

As Sandwiches

• Soy Glazed Chicken Wraps: Wrap the chicken in tortillas with veggies for an easy lunch.
• Banh Mi Style Sandwiches: Use baguettes and top with pickled vegetables for an exciting fusion.

With Dipping Sauce

• Extra Soy Glaze: Serve additional soy glaze on the side for those who love extra flavor.
• Spicy Mayo: A drizzle of spicy mayo can add a kick that balances the sweetness of the chicken.

How to Perfect Soy Glazed Chicken

Perfecting soy glazed chicken is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor absorption.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger impart more vibrant flavors than dried counterparts.
• Control Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is at medium-high heat to achieve perfect sear marks without drying out the chicken.
• Baste Wisely: Basting during the last few minutes ensures added moisture and shine without burning the marinade.

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Best Side Dishes for Soy Glazed Chicken

Pairing side dishes with soy glazed chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting base.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas adds crunch and nutrition.
3. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots offers a refreshing contrast.
4. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad brings texture and health benefits to your meal.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned simply enhance the overall flavor profile.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides umami depth that pairs nicely with soy glazed chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making soy glazed chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the chicken long enough will result in less flavor. Aim for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
• Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: Cheap soy sauce can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Invest in a good-quality soy sauce for the best taste.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill can cause uneven cooking. Always heat your grill to medium-high before adding the chicken.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many pieces on the grill at once can lead to steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Forgetting to Reserve Marinade: If you don’t set aside some marinade before it touches raw chicken, you’ll miss out on basting opportunities and extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soy glazed chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soy Glazed Chicken

• Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Soy Glazed Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Soy Glazed Chicken?

Soy glazed chicken is a flavorful dish made by marinating chicken thighs in soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger before grilling them.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! While thighs are ideal due to their tenderness, you can also use boneless chicken breasts or drumsticks.

How spicy is soy glazed chicken?

The recipe does not include spicy ingredients, making it mild. You can add chili flakes if you prefer some heat!

How do I serve Soy Glazed Chicken?

Serve it warm on a platter garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. It’s great with steamed rice or over salad greens.

Final Thoughts

Soy glazed chicken is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize the marinade by adding your favorite spices or vegetables. Enjoy this comforting dish that brings a taste of Asian cuisine right to your home!