Soy Glazed Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Delight

There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken and a perfectly balanced sweet-and-savory glaze. Soy Glazed Chicken is one of those dishes that feels fancy enough for a dinner party but is simple enough to whip up on a weeknight. The chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and covered in a rich glaze that’s packed with flavor.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a quick and easy dinner with a little bit of flair. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, you’ll appreciate how straightforward and satisfying this dish is.

Let me tell you a little story about how this recipe became a favorite in my household. One evening, after a long day, I was staring at a pack of chicken thighs in the fridge and a nearly empty pantry. A quick scan of my kitchen revealed soy sauce, honey, and garlic—staples in my house. The result? This soy glazed chicken was born. It’s now a go-to recipe that we can’t get enough of, and I’m so excited to share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Soy Glazed Chicken

1. Crispy and Juicy:
The cornstarch coating creates a crispy, golden crust on the chicken, while the inside remains tender and juicy.

2. Flavor Explosion:
The sauce is a perfect harmony of sweet honey, salty soy sauce, aromatic garlic, and the warm kick of five-spice powder.

3. Quick and Easy:
With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can have this dish on the table in under 40 minutes.

4. Versatile:
This recipe works beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or even a light salad. It’s also great for meal prepping!

5. Crowd-Pleaser:
Whether you’re serving picky eaters or foodies, this dish always impresses. The sesame seeds and scallions add a pop of freshness that ties everything together.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories per serving: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 18g

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken:

• 5 boneless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp oil, for frying

Sauce:

• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tsp five-spice powder
• 2 cloves garlic, grated

Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• 1 scallion, chopped

Additional:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Ingredient Breakdown:

• Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, these work best for this recipe, but you can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred.
• Cornstarch: Helps create that crispy exterior while keeping the chicken moist.
• Soy sauces: Regular soy sauce adds a salty kick, while dark soy sauce deepens the flavor and adds a touch of richness.
• Honey: Balances out the salty soy sauce with a subtle sweetness.
• Five-spice powder: Adds a unique warmth and complexity to the dish.
• Garlic: Freshly grated garlic gives the glaze a bold, aromatic punch.
• Butter: Enhances the sauce with a velvety texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This step is essential for ensuring the cornstarch sticks well and the chicken crisps up beautifully.
• In a shallow dish, combine the cornstarch, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything together to create an even coating for the chicken.

2. Coat and Fry

• Take each piece of chicken and coat it evenly in the cornstarch mixture. Shake off any excess to prevent clumping.
• Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of oil and allow it to heat up until shimmering.
• Gently place the coated chicken thighs in the pan, skin-side down if applicable. Fry for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
• Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

3. Make the Sauce

• In the same pan, lower the heat slightly and add the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
• While the butter melts, mix the sauce ingredients in a small bowl: honey, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, five-spice powder, and grated garlic. Stir until smooth.
• Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Glaze the Chicken

• Return the fried chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the bubbling sauce. Use a spoon or silicone brush to coat each piece generously with the soy glaze. Let the chicken cook in the sauce for an additional 2–3 minutes, ensuring the flavors seep in.

5. Serve and Garnish

• Remove the chicken from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Slice the chicken into strips or serve whole.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped scallions over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately with steamed rice and vegetables or your favorite side dish.

How to Serve Soy Glazed Chicken

This versatile chicken dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Steamed Rice: The fluffy rice soaks up the soy glaze perfectly, creating a comforting meal.
• Noodles: Toss some cooked noodles in the leftover glaze for a quick side.
• Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or bok choy for a nutritious and balanced plate.
• Salad: A light, refreshing cucumber salad complements the rich flavors of the chicken.

Additional Tips for Perfect Soy Glazed Chicken

1. Pat the Chicken Dry: Removing excess moisture helps the cornstarch adhere better and ensures a crispier crust.
2. Use a Nonstick Pan: A nonstick or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
3. Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it up.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches if necessary to maintain the oil’s temperature and crispiness.
5. Toast the Sesame Seeds: For extra flavor, toast the sesame seeds lightly before garnishing.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Soy Glazed Chicken: Add 1–2 teaspoons of chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

2. Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and swap the cornstarch for arrowroot powder.

3. Vegetarian Alternative: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower florets. Fry them the same way and coat in the soy glaze.

4. Citrus Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lime or orange juice to the sauce for a zesty flavor.

5. Herbaceous Upgrade: Mix in a handful of freshly chopped cilantro or mint leaves for a refreshing twist.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

• Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely. Place the pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. To prevent drying out, brush with a little water or leftover glaze before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts work well, but be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness.

2. What can I substitute for five-spice powder?
You can use a mix of ground cinnamon, star anise, fennel, and cloves for a similar flavor.

3. Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s mild, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha to spice it up.

4. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then toss in the glaze.

5. How do I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce isn’t thick enough, simmer it a bit longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water).

Conclusion

Soy Glazed Chicken is a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving something delicious on a busy night, this recipe will never let you down.

I’d love to hear how your Soy Glazed Chicken turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me. Happy cooking!

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