Name: Savory Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken Ready in 12 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Ingredients: 1 kg skinless chicken thigh fillets (Cut into large pieces to prevent drying out.); 3 tbsp fish sauce (Can substitute with soy sauce, but this will alter the taste.); 1 piece bird's eye chilli or Thai chilli (Optional for a slight heat; deseed and finely mince to control spiciness.); 3 tbsp vegetable oil (Any neutral oil works.); 1/4 cup brown sugar (Packed for a robust flavor; avoid substituting with white sugar.); 1/3 cup ginger (Finely julienned, adjust quantity based on taste preference.); 2 pieces eschallots (Halved then finely sliced; can substitute with half a red onion.); 1/2 cup boiling water (Keep it at a rolling boil for effective reduction.)

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There’s a certain magic that happens when you combine the rich flavors of ginger with a sticky Vietnamese caramel sauce. I first discovered this Easy Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken recipe during a harried weeknight dinner prep that turned into a delightful adventure in my kitchen. The tantalizing scent of caramelizing sugar mingled with fragrant ginger soon filled my home, transforming simple chicken thighs into something extraordinary.

What I love most about this dish is not just its delicious taste, but the fact that it comes together in just 12 minutes. Yes, you read that right! When life gets busy and takeout starts to lose its charm, this recipe offers a quick and satisfying escape into the world of homemade, vibrant flavors. Paired with fluffy jasmine rice and a crisp Asian slaw, it’s the perfect solution for anyone craving an easy yet impressive weeknight meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish that’s as easy as it is delicious!

Why is Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This dish comes together in just 12 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich, Bold Flavors: A tantalizing combination of ginger and caramel creates an irresistible sweet-savory glaze.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily adaptable with options for pork or tofu, it suits various dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with restaurant-quality flavors right at home.
Time-Saving Delight: Say goodbye to fast food; this quick recipe satisfies your cravings with homemade goodness.
For more amazing meal ideas, check out our best quick dinner recipes!

Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• 1 kg / 2 lb skinless chicken thigh fillets – Offers juiciness and tenderness; cut into large pieces to prevent drying out.
• 3 tbsp fish sauce – Adds depth of flavor; can substitute with soy sauce, but this will alter the taste.

For the Glaze
• 1 bird’s eye chilli or Thai chilli – Optional for a slight heat; deseed and finely mince to control spiciness.
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil – Used in caramelizing sugar and chicken; any neutral oil works.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar – Essential for the caramel glaze; packed for a robust flavor; avoid substituting with white sugar for best results.
• 1/3 cup ginger, finely julienned – Offers a strong, aromatic flavor; adjust quantity based on your taste preference.
• 2 eschallots, halved then finely sliced – Adds sweetness and depth; can substitute with half a red onion.
• 1/2 cup boiling water – Helps dissolve and create the glaze; keep it at a rolling boil for effective reduction.

This Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken recipe showcases the art of combining simple ingredients for an extraordinary taste, perfect for brightening up your weeknight dinners!

How to Make Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken

Toss the Chicken: Start by tossing the chicken thigh fillets with fish sauce and minced chilli in a bowl. Let it sit for just a few minutes; this step infuses all that delightful flavor into the meat.
Heat the Oil and Sugar: In a large non-stick pan, combine the vegetable oil and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar melts into a lovely golden caramel—be careful not to burn it!
Add the Chicken and Aromatics: Carefully introduce the chicken, ginger, and sliced eschallots into the pan. Toss everything together until coated in that rich caramel for about a minute.
Cook the Chicken Through: Return the pan to medium heat, stirring until the chicken turns white but isn’t browned. This helps seal in the moisture for juicy bites.
Simmer for the Glaze: Pour in the boiling water, give it a quick stir, then allow to simmer rapidly for 10-12 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally until the sauce reduces down into a glorious glaze.
Final Stirring and Serve: Once the sauce thickens, stir regularly to avoid sticking or burning. Serve hot over jasmine rice, garnished with fresh coriander and, if desired, a slice of chilli for extra heat.

Optional: Top with sesame seeds for an added crunch and beautiful presentation!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop to maintain the glaze’s stickiness.

Freezer: This chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the glaze.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.

Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these creative twists on a classic dish, and make it your own!

Pork Alternative: Swap chicken thighs for pork belly or tenderloin for a richer flavor experience that’s equally delicious.
Tofu Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu to create a satisfying plant-based dish that’s still packed with flavor.
Vegetable Boost: Add vibrant vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas in the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
Ginger Kick: Increase the amount of ginger for a bolder, spicier version that really highlights this aromatic ingredient’s freshness.
Sweet Heat: Incorporate a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the glaze for an added depth of sweetness that balances the dish.
Coconut Flavor: Mix in a splash of coconut milk during simmering for a subtle tropical hint that complements the caramel nicely.
Sauce Variations: Swap fish sauce for a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to cater to dietary needs without losing depth of flavor.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like Thai basil or mint just before serving for a fragrant finish that elevates each bite.

These variations open up a world of flavor possibilities while keeping the essence of this beloved Vietnamese dish intact! Enjoy experimenting!

Expert Tips for Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken

Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for skinless chicken thigh fillets for juiciness; breasts can dry out easily during cooking.
Mind the Temperature: Keep the sugar melting process on medium heat and watch closely to prevent burning; burnt sugar alters the flavor completely.
Stir Regularly: Once you add boiling water, stir occasionally to avoid scorching the sauce; this helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
Adjust Spice Level: If you like more heat, keep some seeds in the chilli; for milder flavors, deseed and mince finely.
Garnish Creatively: Fresh coriander and sesame seeds add color and texture—don’t skip on these for a beautiful presentation of your Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken!

What to Serve with Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken?

Create a vibrant meal experience that will dazzle your taste buds and fill your home with delightful aromas.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice absorbs the sticky caramel glaze beautifully, making every bite a treasured treat.
Crisp Asian Slaw: A refreshing medley of cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken. This salad not only adds color but also enhances the meal’s freshness.
Smashed Cucumbers: Light and crunchy, these cucumbers tossed with garlic and vinegar make an excellent side that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Sautéed in garlic and a splash of soy sauce, this vibrant green vegetable adds a nutritious element while offering a delightful crispness.
Sesame Noodles: Choose cold or warm versions with a sesame dressing to complement the savory flavors of the chicken, creating an umami-packed dish.
Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with cilantro or Thai basil brightens the dish and provides an aromatic kick that enhances the overall flavor.
Chilled Coconut Water: This hydrating drink complements the sweet-savory profile of the chicken while refreshing your palate. It’s a great way to unwind after a comforting meal.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, the combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut sticky rice rounds out the meal with a delightful finish. The sweetness pairs perfectly with the chicken’s savory notes.

Make Ahead Options

These Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken delights are perfect for busy meal prep! You can marinate the chicken with fish sauce and minced chilli up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply. Additionally, you can chop the ginger and eschallots ahead of time, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil and sugar, add the prepped chicken and aromatics, then simmer with boiling water until the sauce thickens into a glaze. This make-ahead strategy ensures you’ll enjoy that same mouthwatering taste with minimal effort on hectic weeknights!

Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken?
Absolutely! Skinless chicken thigh fillets are the best choice for this recipe as they provide juiciness and tenderness during cooking. Avoid chicken breasts if possible, as they tend to dry out more quickly. If you prefer, you can also use pork or tofu, adapting the cooking time accordingly.

How should I store leftover Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken?
After enjoying this savory dish, you can store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently over low heat on the stovetop, which helps keep that delicious glaze nice and sticky.

Can I freeze Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze this chicken for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely after cooking, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating, adding a splash of water to help loosen the glaze if needed.

What if I don’t have fish sauce? Can I use something else?
Very! While fish sauce is traditional and adds depth of flavor, you can substitute it with soy sauce if needed. Just keep in mind that this will alter the taste slightly. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, seek out gluten-free soy sauce or a tamari alternative.

How can I adjust the spiciness in this dish?
If you prefer a milder version, feel free to deseed and finely mince the bird’s eye chili. On the other hand, if you enjoy heat, you can leave some seeds in when mincing. Experiment with the spice levels until it suits your taste!

What should I do if the caramel burns while cooking?
Don’t fret! If the caramel starts to burn, quickly remove the pan from the heat and transfer the contents to a new pan. Start with a fresh batch of sugar and oil to achieve the right caramel without any burnt flavor. It’s always best to keep an eye on the heat and stir regularly to prevent any mishaps.