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Resting the rice after cooking is a crucial step that many home cooks overlook. When rice is cooked, it releases steam, which can make it overly moist and clumpy if served immediately. Allowing the rice to rest for about 5-10 minutes off the heat will help the grains firm up and separate. This step ensures a fluffy texture, making it a perfect base for your Sweet & Sticky Garlic Soy Chicken.

Sticky Garlic Soy Chicken with Sesame Rice

Experience the mouthwatering delight of Sweet & Sticky Garlic Soy Chicken, a dish that perfectly balances sweet honey, rich soy sauce, and aromatic garlic. This recipe is ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a comforting weeknight meal. Marinated chicken thighs offer juicy tenderness, while a simple sesame rice side enhances the flavors. With its adaptable nature, this dish caters to all palates and transforms any occasion into a flavorful celebration. Try it today and savor the magic of home-cooked goodness!
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Ingredients
  

For the Sticky Garlic Soy Chicken:

1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thigh fillets

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons honey

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your preferred spice level)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

For the Sesame Rice:

1 cup jasmine rice

2 cups water

2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

      - Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.

        Prepare the Rice:

          - Rinse the jasmine rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well.

            - In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the water has been absorbed.

              - Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, and sesame seeds. Set aside and keep warm.

                Cook the Chicken:

                  - Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off.

                    - Add the chicken thighs to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through.

                      - Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken nicely.

                        Serve:

                          - Slice the sticky garlic soy chicken into bite-sized pieces and arrange it over a bed of sesame rice. Drizzle the thickened glaze from the skillet over the chicken.

                            - Garnish the dish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. If desired, add chopped cilantro for a fresh touch.

                              Enjoy:

                                - Relish the delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors from the Sticky Garlic Soy Chicken, beautifully paired with the nutty essence of the sesame rice.

                                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4