Description
Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that will elevate your dining experience. This dish features tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich sauce made from caramelized sugar, fragrant fish sauce, and zesty ginger. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles, allowing you to savor every drop of its delicious sauce. With its simple preparation process and minimal ingredients, this recipe is ideal for cooks of all skill levels. Enjoy the aromatic blend of spices and the mouthwatering taste that makes Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 6–8 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger (grated)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- Optional: 1-2 Thai bird's eye chilies (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Steamed rice for serving
Instructions
- Pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides, about 4–5 minutes each side. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add granulated sugar over medium heat to create caramel. Allow it to melt without stirring until amber in color.
- Quickly add fish sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the caramel and stir well before adding ginger, garlic, and onion. Cook until fragrant.
- Pour in water and return chicken to the skillet skin-side up. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving hot over steamed rice with fresh cilantro as garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added spice, include bird's eye chilies during cooking. Customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. This dish tastes even better the next day; perfect for meal prep.