Soy Ginger Glazed Chicken

Name: Soy Ginger Glazed Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon water; Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Global Meals

I absolutely love making Soy Ginger Glazed Chicken! The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a flavor-packed glaze that elevates simple chicken to something truly special. Each bite is a delightful balance of sweet and savory, making this dish perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests. I find that marinating the chicken beforehand really allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in juicy, tender meat that pairs beautifully with rice or steamed vegetables. Let's dive into this easy and delicious recipe!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-27T11:10:28.398Z

When I first tried making Soy Ginger Glazed Chicken, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how rich the flavors turned out. I usually let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, but if time is short, even 20 minutes makes a difference. The ginger adds a bright zest, and the soy sauce gives it depth. It’s a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also fills the home with delightful aromas as it cooks.

I often serve this chicken with a side of jasmine rice, which absorbs the extra glaze beautifully. You can also experiment by adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to the skillet, making it a colorful and nutritious one-pan meal. Don't skip the garnishing with sesame seeds or scallions – they add a lovely finish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Versatile enough to pair with various sides
Aromatic spices that will fill your kitchen with warmth

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade is crucial for infusing the chicken with rich flavors. Soy sauce serves as the primary umami booster, while brown sugar balances the saltiness with a hint of sweetness. Fresh ginger and garlic not only add aromatic depth but also tenderize the meat, making it more succulent when cooked. Letting the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes ensures that these flavors penetrate deeply, but for an even more pronounced taste, consider extending the marinade time to a couple of hours or overnight if possible.

If you need to accommodate dietary restrictions or adjust flavors, you can substitute coconut aminos for soy sauce for a soy-free option, or use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a refined-sugar-free version. Both alternatives maintain the dish's overall balance and enhance the complexity of the glaze. Remember that the marinade is not just a flavor enhancer; it also plays a role in the moisture content of the chicken, helping to keep it juicy during cooking.

Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

Cooking the chicken to the right internal temperature is essential for food safety and optimal texture. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when using a meat thermometer. Cooking on medium heat allows the chicken to brown nicely without burning, which is key for developing flavor. If you notice the chicken starting to char too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to ensure it cooks through evenly while achieving that desirable golden crust.

Another tip I recommend is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes off the heat after cooking. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, preventing them from running out when you slice into it. Skipping this step can lead to drier chicken. Simply cover the chicken loosely with foil while you prepare the glaze, and you’ll serve up perfectly tender, juicy pieces.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Soy Ginger Glazed Chicken shines when paired with plain Jasmine rice or quinoa, as they both absorb the excess glaze beautifully. Steamed or sautéed vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas, make great accompaniments, adding a pop of color and nutrition to your plate. For a lighter option, consider serving the chicken over a mixed greens salad drizzled with some of the reserved glaze for an exciting flavor contrast.

If you're looking to switch things up, try using pork or tofu in place of chicken for new taste sensations. Adjust cooking times accordingly; tofu should be crisped up in the pan, while pork should reach the same minimum internal temperature as chicken. You can also experiment by adding sesame oil or chili flakes to the glaze for a nutty or spicy kick, respectively. The versatility of this dish makes it an excellent canvas for your culinary creativity!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Soy Ginger Glazed Chicken:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking for the best experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the Soy Ginger Glazed Chicken:

Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (saving the marinade) and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Prepare the Glaze

In the same skillet, add the reserved marinade and bring it to a simmer. Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl, then stir it into the simmering marinade to thicken it. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until bubbly.

Glaze the Chicken

Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it thoroughly with the glaze. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Transfer the glazed chicken to a serving platter, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and enjoy!

Pair this delicious dish with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade. This adds a nice level of heat to balance the sweetness of the glaze.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

For meal prep enthusiasts, this recipe is a winner! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, saving you time on busy weeknights. Just ensure you keep it covered in the refrigerator. Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy leftovers or pack for lunches.

If you want to prepare even further ahead, consider freezing the marinated chicken. Store it in a freezer-safe bag, and it can last up to three months. When ready to use, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. Not only does this save time, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully as it thaws.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making glazed dishes is achieving the right consistency with the glaze. If your sauce isn't thickening as expected, ensure that the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the water before adding it to the skillet. If clumps form, whisking vigorously while the glaze simmers can help break them down. If the glaze remains too thin after this step, let it simmer a little longer until it reduces and thickens to the desired texture.

Sometimes, the chicken can release excess moisture during cooking, which may dilute the glaze. To counteract this, make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before adding it to the skillet. This simple step can help you achieve that beautiful caramelization and prevent the glaze from becoming watery.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but be aware that chicken breasts can dry out more easily. Consider reducing cooking time.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and cook it just before serving.

→ What should I serve with Soy Ginger Glazed Chicken?

It pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative for the marinade.