Chef Mitchell preparing Glazed Chicken with Herb Rice
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this dish while traveling through Asia, where the combination of flavors inspired me to create my version. After many attempts, I perfected the glaze that beautifully coats the chicken. The herb rice complements the dish perfectly, adding a fresh touch. It has since become a family favorite at our dinner table."

With over a decade of experience in Asian cuisine, I specialize in creating authentic and easy-to-follow recipes. My passion lies in blending traditional techniques with modern flavors for memorable meals. I love sharing my insights on dinner recipes that can be enjoyed by everyone.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Glazed Chicken with Herb Rice served on a plate

Why This Glazed Chicken with Herb Rice Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because of its balance between sweet and savory flavors, achieved through a simple yet effective glaze. The herb rice is a perfect complement, adding freshness to the dish. Using fresh ingredients ensures that each bite is full of flavor and nutrition. It's also an easy recipe for cooks of all levels.

The baking technique creates juicy chicken with a caramelized glaze, enhancing the overall taste. The herb rice is cooked to fluffy perfection, absorbing the aromatic flavors. This combination not only pleases the palate but also makes an appealing presentation on the plate.

💡 Professional Tip

For best results, let the chicken marinate for at least an hour or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply. Also, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without drying it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinate it a day in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. You can also cook the rice ahead of time and reheat it just before serving for a quick meal.

If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari. For a lower sodium option, consider using coconut aminos. The flavor will differ slightly, but it will still work well with the recipe.

You can check if the chicken is done by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and rice. Ensure they are in airtight containers. The dish can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly.

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple salad to balance the meal. You can also serve it with pickled vegetables for added flavor. For a richer experience, consider adding spring rolls as a side.

The dish can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Ensure it is in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and chicken a day in advance. Simply marinate overnight and bake when ready. The herb rice can also be made ahead and reheated.

The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken turns out dry after baking.

Solution: Make sure to not overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. Basting with the marinade during cooking also helps keep it moist.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The glaze does not create a crispy exterior.

Solution: To achieve a crispy glaze, ensure the chicken is placed on a rack over the baking sheet and broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The chicken is tough due to overcooking.

Prevention: Next time, keep an eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking. Marinating the chicken also helps retain moisture.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The chicken is undercooked in the center.

Recovery: Return the chicken to the oven for additional cooking time. Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outside of the chicken is burnt while the inside is not cooked properly.

Prevention: To prevent burning, reduce the oven temperature and cover the chicken with foil for part of the cooking time.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: Add a splash of vinegar or citrus juice to cut the sweetness.

Too Salty: Add a little sugar or honey to balance the saltiness.

Bland: Enhance flavors with additional herbs, spices, or a splash of soy sauce.

Fresh ingredients for Glazed Chicken with Herb Rice

Essential Ingredients for Glazed Chicken with Herb Rice

The key ingredients include fresh chicken, a blend of soy sauce, honey, and garlic for the glaze, and jasmine rice as the base. Each ingredient complements the others beautifully, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Using quality ingredients is essential to achieving that authentic taste.

Opting for high-quality, fresh chicken ensures tenderness, while good soy sauce enhances the savory notes of the dish. Fresh herbs not only add flavor but also brighten the overall presentation.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Choose skinless chicken thighs for more moisture and flavor. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them for the best results.
  • Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you're watching your salt intake. A good soy sauce will enhance the dish without overpowering other flavors.
  • Jasmine Rice: Jasmine rice adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve a fluffier texture.
Cooking process for Glazed Chicken with Herb Rice

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process involves marinating the chicken for deep flavor and then baking it to perfection. The rice is cooked separately, absorbing the fragrant herbs to complement the chicken. This method balances hands-on cooking with a simple baking technique.

By following the steps carefully, you'll achieve juicy, flavorful chicken with a beautiful glaze and fluffy herb rice. Each part of the dish is equally important, ensuring a complete meal that satisfies the taste buds.

Key Technique for Perfect Glazed Chicken with Herb Rice

Marinating the chicken is the most crucial step in this recipe. It allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, ensuring each bite is packed with taste. Be sure to baste occasionally during cooking to enhance the glaze further.

Glazed Chicken with Herb Rice

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup soy sauce
    Low-sodium preferred
  • 1/2 cup honey
    Natural sweetener
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
    Adds tanginess
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    For flavor
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
    Enhances taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 2 cups jasmine rice
    Main starch
  • 4 cups water
    For cooking rice
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
    Herb for rice
  • 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
    Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    For flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    Seasoning
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
    Optional
  • Lime wedges for serving
    Optional

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade

    In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Set aside some marinade for basting.

  2. Marinate the Chicken

    Place chicken pieces in a zip-top bag and pour in the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

  3. Cook the Rice

    In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add jasmine rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until tender.

  4. Prepare the Herb Rice

    Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in parsley, green onions, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  5. Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  6. Bake the Chicken

    Place marinated chicken on a baking sheet, reserving some marinade for basting. Bake for 25-30 minutes, basting halfway through.

  7. Glaze the Chicken

    In the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the chicken with reserved marinade to create a nice glaze.

  8. Serve

    Serve the glazed chicken over a bed of herb rice, garnished with sesame seeds and lime wedges.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store leftover Glazed Chicken with Herb Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, reheat thoroughly before serving. You can also freeze the dish for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal. Adding lime wedges enhances the flavor, and sesame seeds can add a nice crunch. Pairing with pickled vegetables can also elevate the overall dining experience.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables to the chicken while baking. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas work well. You can also experiment with different marinades or serve it with quinoa for a nutritional twist.