After a long day, when takeout options just don’t cut it anymore, I find solace in whipping up a comforting meal right in my kitchen. That’s how Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls became a go-to favorite in my household. The delightful aroma of garlic sizzling in a hot skillet feels like a warm hug, promising something special is on the way.
What I love most about this dish is its perfect balance of flavors—savory soy sauce mingling with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar, all enveloping tender chicken. It’s a dish that feels fancy enough for guests but is simple enough to become your quick weeknight staple. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a culinary masterpiece that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings smiles to the whole table. Trust me, these Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls are about to become a cherished recipe in your repertoire!
Why You'll Love This Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls
- This recipe is a breeze to prepare, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 40 minutes.
- The flavor combination of savory soy sauce and sweet brown sugar creates an irresistible glaze that will have your taste buds dancing.
- Not only is it perfect for a weeknight dinner, but its elegant presentation makes it a fantastic option for entertaining guests.
- Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or serve it over any type of rice.
Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – about 4 pieces will give you tender, juicy protein as the star of your dish.
For the Glaze
• Fresh garlic – 4 cloves, minced for that aromatic flavor that will elevate your Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls.
• Low-sodium soy sauce – 1/4 cup adds depth and umami without overwhelming saltiness.
• Brown sugar – 1/4 cup balances the savory notes with a touch of sweetness, creating a delightful glaze.
For Toppings
• Green onions – 2, chopped to sprinkle on top for a fresh, vibrant crunch.
For the Rice
• Jasmine rice – 2 cups cooked perfectly provides a fluffy base for your glazed chicken.
Feel free to explore other toppings or additions to make this delicious dish your own!
How to Make Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls
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Prep your ingredients. Start by finely chopping the fresh garlic and green onions. Measure out the soy sauce and brown sugar—having everything ready will make cooking a breeze!
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Heat the skillet. Place a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once it’s hot, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked.
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Mix the glaze. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic. This will create the luscious glaze that will bring your dish to life!
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Glaze the chicken. When the chicken is cooked through, check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Pour the prepared glaze over the chicken and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, until it thickens and caramelizes beautifully.
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Cook the rice. As the chicken simmers away, prepare the jasmine rice according to package instructions. The fluffy rice will offer the perfect base for your stunning glazed chicken.
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Serve it up. Fluff the rice and portion it into bowls. Top each bowl with the glossy chicken and finish with a sprinkle of fresh green onions for a pop of color and crunch.
Optional: Consider adding steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra nutrition and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these comforting Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls—your kitchen, your rules!
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Vegetable Medley: Add bell peppers and carrots to the skillet for a colorful and nutritious twist. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also packs in extra nutrients!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of Sriracha into the glaze for those who crave a bit of heat. A little spice can elevate the dish to a whole new flavor level that beautifully complements the sweetness of the glaze.
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Honey Alternative: Swap out brown sugar for honey for a different sweetness profile. The honey adds a rich flavor and a wonderful stickiness to that gorgeous glaze.
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Coconut Rice: Substitute jasmine rice with coconut rice for a tropical flair. The creamy, fragrant rice will pair perfectly with the garlicky chicken, transporting your taste buds to an island paradise.
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Grilled Chicken: Try grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing for a smoky flavor. The grill marks add a beautiful touch and a delightful contrast to the sweet glaze.
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Soy-Free Option: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to create a gluten-free and soy-free version while maintaining delicious umami flavors. It’s an easy switch that invites even more folks to enjoy this dish!
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Savory Additions: Toss in peas or corn into the rice while cooking for a pop of color and sweetness. These additions not only brighten your bowl but also add delightful texture and flavor.
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Cashew Topping: For added crunch, sprinkle roasted cashews over the finished bowls. Their rich, buttery flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweet glaze, bringing an exciting twist to each bite.
Make Ahead Options
Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken with the soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic glaze up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat for a more savory experience. The jasmine rice can also be cooked ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just reheat the rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water before serving. When it’s time to eat, simply cook the marinated chicken as directed, and everything will be just as delicious, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls?
Creating a delightful meal is easy when you have the perfect side dishes to complement your garlic-infused feast.
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Steamed Broccoli: The bright green florets add a fresh crunch and vibrant color, pairing perfectly with the rich glaze.
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Crispy Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with a light vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the chicken, providing a refreshing contrast.
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Garlic Breadsticks: For those who can’t resist more garlic, buttery breadsticks are an irresistible vessel for soaking up any leftover glaze.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness embraces the savory elements of the chicken, adding both flavor and texture to your bowl.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Tender yet crisp green beans tossed in a bit of garlic and lemon offer brightness, enhancing every bite of the chicken.
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Cold Sapporo Beer: This light, crisp beer complements the dish beautifully, cutting through the richness, making it a perfect pairing.
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Honeydew Melon Salad: A refreshing salad with creamy feta offers a delightful contrast to the savory dish, adding tantalizing juiciness with each bite.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls
Fridge: Keep your Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the chicken stays juicy and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the glazed chicken and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. This preserves the texture and flavor for future meals.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, and then reheat in the microwave on medium power or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Enjoy your flavorful meal again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing the Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls, make sure to finely chop the garlic to release its full flavor.
- Avoid crowding the skillet when cooking the chicken; this ensures even browning and proper cooking.
- To achieve a perfectly thick glaze, let it simmer gently without rushing the process for at least 3 minutes.
- Always use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken breasts?
Absolutely! When selecting boneless, skinless chicken breasts, look for those with a consistent pink color and minimal dark spots or bruising. Fresh chicken should feel slightly moist but not slimy. If possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken for better flavor and quality.
How can I store leftover Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls?
To store your delicious Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls, keep them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. This ensures that the chicken remains juicy and the flavors continue to develop. Just make sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it up!
Can I freeze Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls?
Very! For long-term storage, you can freeze the glazed chicken and jasmine rice separately in airtight containers. They will maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What should I do if my glaze is too runny?
If your glaze isn’t thickening, don’t worry! Just let it simmer over low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help reduce the liquid and create a luscious coating. If it’s still too thin, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the glaze; let it cook for another minute until thickened.
Are there any dietary considerations for Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls?
Yes! If you’re hosting guests with dietary restrictions, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce if any of them are gluten-sensitive. As for allergies, the recipe contains chicken and soy sauce, so keep that in mind when serving. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute chicken with tofu marinated in the same glaze.
Can I add veggies to my Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your dish by adding some steamed vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. Simply toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking the chicken, allowing them to soak up some of that delicious glaze for added flavor and nutrition.
Garlic Glazed Chicken Bowls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by finely chopping the fresh garlic and green onions. Measure out the soy sauce and brown sugar.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic to create the glaze.
- Pour the glaze over the chicken and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens and caramelizes.
- Prepare the jasmine rice according to package instructions.
- Fluff the rice and portion it into bowls. Top each bowl with the glazed chicken and finish with fresh green onions.
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