Vietnamese Caramel Chicken

Asia has always been ahead of the rest of the world when it comes to dishes with bright, vibrant flavors. The food has a complexity that is unrivaled. I suppose this was historically ...

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Asian | Chicken | Chicken thighs | Fish Sauce | One pot / One pan | Poultry | Sweet | Vietnam

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Asia has always been ahead of the rest of the world when it comes to dishes with bright, vibrant flavors. The food has a complexity that is unrivaled.

I suppose this was historically created due to the population’s poverty and their need to consume large amounts of rice and noodles. Rice, in itself, is quite neutral and bland in taste. However, it is cheap and widely available, unlike meat and other expensive products. Because of this, Asian meat dishes were given the strongest possible flavor to diversify the taste of rice and to allow them to be used in small quantities.

This recipe for Vietnamese caramel chicken is no exception. A caramel sauce gives the chicken a sweetness and the same smoothness as caramel. There’s a little chili to tickle the taste buds slightly, and fish sauce perfectly emphasizes the taste of meat, making it richer and helping to tie all the flavors together.

In the end, the sweet and salty components work perfectly together, reminding us once again that the most brilliant things are simple.

An undeniable plus of this dish is that you don’t need to dirty a lot of dishes. The whole process takes place in one large frying pan or wok. In it, we will fry the chicken, prepare the sauce, and bring the dish to completion.

What is Caramel Chicken?

Caramel Chicken is a popular Vietnamese dish that features tender pieces of chicken cooked in a sweet and savory caramel sauce. The sauce is made by combining sugar, water, and fish sauce, which creates a rich, deep amber-colored caramel.

The chicken is then cooked in this sauce, allowing it to absorb the flavors and become glazed with the sticky caramel. The dish is often balanced with a touch of chili for a hint of heat and sometimes includes additional ingredients like ginger, garlic, and green onions for added depth of flavor.

Caramel Chicken is typically served over steamed white rice or noodles, which soak up the delicious sauce, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.

🔪 Ingredients

  • 6-8 chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
  • 70 g (2,5 oz) sugar
  • 2 tbsp. fish sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely sliced 
  • 150 ml (0,6 cups) of water 
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 chili pepper
  • salt

To serve:

  • sliced cucumber
  • boiled rice
Caramel Chicken Ingredients

🥣Directions

I recommend using chicken thighs for this recipe. Due to their high-fat content, the flavor of the dish will be more intense, and the meat will remain tender and juicy even with prolonged heat treatment. If you prefer, you can use quarters – the effect will be about the same.

You may use the breasts but you will have to change the cooking technique a little, so as not to dry the meat out. If you cook with the breast, the plan is as follows: cut the breasts into a butterfly shape and fry it until it is ready (65 degrees Celsius inside), +/- 5 minutes on each side. Allow to rest and then cut into long strips. Then mix everything for the sauce, but put the meat into it as the very last step for only a couple of minutes.

Step 1. Salt the chicken, heat 2 tbsp. of oil in a large pan, and fry it from one side.

Salt the chicken on both sides. Heat some oil in a large frying pan or wok and put the chicken in with the skin down. Cook on medium heat for about 8 minutes, until golden brown.Chicken Caramel Recipe. Step 1 Salt the chicken, heat 2 tbsp. of oil in a large pan, and fry it from one side.

Step 2. Turn over and fry for another 2-3 minutes. Put on a plate. Chop the garlic while the chicken is frying.

Turn over and fry for another 2-3 minutes. Put the chicken onto a plate. A lot of fat is released from the thighs so drain the extra fat, leaving about 2 tbsp. in the pan.

While the chicken is frying, chop the garlic.

Caramel Chicnen Recipe. Step 2 Turn over and fry for another 2-3 minutes. Put on a plate. Chop the garlic while the chicken is frying.

Step 3. Fry 3 cloves of finely sliced garlic.

Add the garlic to the pan and fry lightly for about a minute. Pour in 2 Tbsp fish sauce and add 70 g (2,5 oz) of sugar, 150 ml (0,6 cups) of water and bring to a boil. Scrape the sticky pieces off the bottom of the pan as you go. 

Caramel Chicken Recipe Step 3. Fry 3 cloves of finely sliced garlic.

Step 4. Return the chicken thighs to the pan with the skin up, reduce the heat, and cook for 10 minutes.

Return the chicken to the frying pan with the skin up. Reduce the heat to a minimum and cook for 10 minutes.

4 Caramel Chicken Recipe Step 4. Return the chicken thighs to the pan with the skin up, reduce the heat, and cook for 10 minutes.

Step 5. Turn the chicken thighs over, cover with the lid, and cook for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes a nice caramel color.

Turn the chicken, putting the skin down, cover it with the lid and cook for another 15 minutes until the excess liquid has evaporated and the sauce has acquired the consistency and color of liquid caramel.

5 Caramel Chicken Recipe Step 5. Turn the chicken thighs over, cover with the lid, and cook for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes a nice caramel color.

During the final minutes, shake the frying pan slightly to avoid burning.

If you see that the sauce has darkened in the center and the color has changed very little at the edges, mix the contents of the frying pan with a spatula.

Step 6. Stir the contents again. Serve with boiled rice and sliced cucumber.

Mix the contents of the pan well to cover the chicken with the sauce on all sides.  Sprinkle chicken with finely sliced chili. Serve with boiled or steamed rice and fresh cucumber slices. Sprinkle with finely sliced chilies. Don’t forget to top the chicken and rice with the rest of the sauce from the pan.

Step 6. Stir the contents again. Serve with boiled rice and sliced cucumber.

📋 Substitutes

Chicken thighschicken drumsticks or turkey thighs (same amount), slightly leaner and milder in flavor;

Fish sauce — soy sauce (2 tbsp), adds a salty, umami flavor, but lacks the fishy taste; tamari (2 tbsp), gluten-free option with similar flavor to soy sauce; Worcestershire sauce (2 tbsp), richer and tangier, but still adds umami flavor.

Water chicken broth (150 ml), adds a richer, more savory flavor to the dish; coconut milk (150 ml), imparts a creamy, slightly sweet taste and a richer texture.

Garlic — garlic powder (1 tsp), milder and more consistent flavor;

Red chili — red pepper flakes (1/4-1/2 tsp), adds heat with a slightly different flavor; jalapeño pepper (1, finely chopped), milder heat but a similar spicy kick.

💭 Cooking Tips

  1. Choose the right cut. Use boneless chicken thighs for a tender, juicy, and flavorful result. You can also use chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry.
  2. Create the caramel. Be patient while creating the caramel sauce, and keep an eye on the sugar to avoid burning. The caramel should reach a deep amber color before adding other ingredients.
  3. Control the heat. Cook the chicken at medium heat, allowing it to caramelize and absorb the sauce without burning. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent the sauce from reducing too quickly.
  4. Season to taste. Balance the flavors with fish sauce, chili, and black pepper, adjusting the amounts to suit your preferences. Remember that fish sauce is salty, so add salt sparingly, if needed.
  5. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and proper caramelization.
  6. Garnish, Finish the dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil, thinly sliced green onions, or a squeeze of lime for added brightness and complexity.

🌶️ Variations

  1. Add ginger. Include 1 tablespoon of minced fresh ginger along with the garlic for an extra layer of flavor. Ginger adds a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet taste that complements the dish well.
  2. Use coconut milk. Replace the water with 150 ml of coconut milk to create a richer, creamier sauce with a subtle coconut flavor that enhances the overall taste.
  3. Include citrus. Add the zest and juice of 1 lime to the sauce, which will brighten the dish with a tangy, citrus note that balances the sweetness of the caramel.
  4. Add vegetables. Incorporate sliced bell peppers, onions, or carrots when frying the garlic, adding more color and texture to the dish while also increasing its nutritional value.
  5. Try a different protein. Substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, turkey thighs, or even tofu for a different taste and texture experience.
  6. Experiment with spices. Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander, cumin, or five-spice powder to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor and a more complex taste profile.
  7. Serve with a different grain. Instead of steamed rice, try serving the caramel chicken over jasmine rice, brown rice, or even quinoa to vary the texture and nutritional value of the dish.

🥡 How to Store

Cooling

Allow the Vietnamese Caramel Chicken to cool down to room temperature after cooking. It’s essential not to leave it at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Refrigerating

Transfer the cooled Caramel Chicken to an airtight container or cover a plate with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep the chicken separate from any cooked rice or vegetables to maintain their individual textures.

Freezing

If you wish to store the Vietnamese Caramel Chicken for an extended period, place it in a freezer-safe, airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring as little air as possible remains inside. Label the container with the date and contents, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

To reheat the refrigerated Caramel Chicken, you can use a microwave, heating it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through. Alternatively, reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed up. For frozen Caramel Chicken, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

🥗 What to serve with?

  1. Steamed Jasmine Rice. Jasmine rice has a delicate aroma and slightly sticky texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory caramel sauce. It absorbs the sauce well, enhancing the overall eating experience.
  2. Rice Noodles. Rice noodles provide a light and delicate alternative to rice, adding a different texture to the meal. They can absorb the flavors of the caramel sauce and complement the tender chicken.
  3. Cucumber Salad. A refreshing cucumber salad, dressed with rice vinegar, lime juice, and a touch of sugar or Chinese smashed cucumbers, can help balance the richness of the caramel chicken with its cool, crisp texture and tangy flavor.
  4. Pickled Vegetables. Vietnamese-style pickled vegetables, such as daikon radish and carrots (Do Chua) or this Korean pickled pink radish, add a crunchy texture and a tangy, sweet, and sour flavor profile. This combination contrasts and complements the sweet and savory caramel chicken.
  5. Sauteed Asian Greens. Sautéed Asian greens, like bok choy or Chinese broccoli, with garlic and a splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce, provide a nutritious and flavorful side dish. The greens bring some earthiness and a different texture to the meal, balancing the rich caramel sauce.
  6. Vietnamese Spring Rolls. Fresh Vietnamese spring rolls, filled with rice noodles, vegetables, and herbs, can be served as a side dish or appetizer. The rolls provide a contrasting light and fresh element to the rich caramel chicken.

🙋‍♂️ FAQ

Can it be cooked without sugar?

No.

Can it be cooked without fish sauce?

Yes. But the caramel chicken will lose some of its flavor.

Can it be cooked without chicken?

Absolutely not.

What to replace fish sauce with?

You can try to replace fish sauce with soy sauce. Or a mix of soy sauce and lime juice in the ratio of 1 to 1. Or a mix of say sauce and rice vinegar in the same ratio.

Can it be cooked without garlic?

Yes, but you will lose some taste and flavour too.

Can it be cooked without chilli?

Yes.

What type of chicken should I use for Vietnamese Caramel Chicken?

The ideal choice for Vietnamese Caramel Chicken is boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They provide a tender, juicy, and flavorful result. However, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer, but be cautious not to overcook them as they can become dry.

Can I make this dish with a different protein?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with other proteins like turkey thighs, pork tenderloin, or even tofu. Keep in mind that cooking times and techniques may vary depending on the protein you choose.

How can I make the caramel sauce without burning it?

When making the caramel sauce, be patient and keep a close eye on the sugar. Cook it over medium heat, and once it reaches a deep amber color, add the other ingredients to stop the cooking process. Make sure to avoid stirring the sugar as it can cause crystallization.

Is there a substitute for fish sauce in this recipe?

If you don’t have fish sauce or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with a mixture of soy sauce and a small amount of anchovy paste, Worcestershire sauce, or even a combination of soy sauce and a pinch of salt. Keep in mind that the flavor may not be identical but will still provide a savory and umami-rich taste.

Can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat to the Vietnamese Caramel Chicken, you can increase the number of red chilies used or add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Adjust the spiciness level according to your preference.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Vietnamese Caramel Chicken in advance. Cook the dish as instructed and allow it to cool down to room temperature. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the dish in a saucepan over low heat or in a microwave until heated through.

How can I prevent the chicken from becoming too dry?

To ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy, avoid overcooking it. Cook the chicken at medium heat and monitor it closely during the cooking process. Using chicken thighs instead of breasts also helps maintain the juiciness of the dish.

What type of rice should I serve with Vietnamese Caramel Chicken?

Jasmine rice is the preferred choice, as its delicate aroma and slightly sticky texture pair well with the caramel sauce. However, you can also serve it with other types of rice, such as basmati or brown rice, or even with rice noodles for a different texture.

Caramel Vietnamesse Chicken

5 from 2 votes
A caramel sauce gives the chicken a sweetness and the same smoothness as caramel. There’s a little chili to tickle the taste buds slightly and fish sauce perfectly emphasizes the taste of meat, makes it richer, and helps to tie all flavors together. In the end, the sweet and salty components work perfectly together. Reminding us once again that most brilliant things are simple.
CourseDinner
CuisineVietnam
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings4
Calories411kcal

Ingredients 

  • 6-8 chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • 150 ml water
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 70 g white sugar
  • 1 red chili
  • black pepper to taste
  • salt

To serve:

  • sliced cucumber
  • boiled or steamed rice

Instructions

  • Salt the chicken, heat 2 tbsp. of oil in a large pan, and fry it from one side.
  • Turn over and fry for another 2-3 minutes. Put on a plate. Chop the garlic while the chicken is frying.
  • Fry 3 cloves of finely sliced garlic.
  • Return the chicken thighs to the pan with the skin up, reduce the heat, and cook for 10 minutes.
  • Turn the chicken thighs over, cover with the lid, and cook for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes a nice caramel color.
  • Stir the contents again. Serve with boiled rice and sliced cucumber.

Nutrition

Calories: 411 kcal | Carbohydrates: 2 g | Protein: 28 g | Fat: 32 g | Saturated Fat: 10 g | Cholesterol: 166 mg | Sodium: 840 mg | Potassium: 419 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 1 g | Vitamin A: 239 IU | Vitamin C: 17 mg | Calcium: 22 mg | Iron: 1 mg
Vietnamese Caramel Chicken. A caramel sauce gives the chicken a sweetness and the same smoothness as caramel. There’s a little chili to tickle the taste buds slightly and fish sauce perfectly emphasizes the taste of meat, makes it richer, and helps to tie all flavors together. In the end, the sweet and salty components work perfectly together. Reminding us once again that most brilliant things are simple. Via @bayevskitchen
Alex Bayev Photo
About me:

Hi, I'm Alex. I love to cook and bake, and I'm always looking for new recipes to try. I started this blog — to collect and share most delicious and easy recipes in one place. I remember, how many questions recipes raised to me, when I started cooking. To make sure that doesn't happen to you, I take step-by-step photos of the cooking process for every recipe so you can see how all the steps are supposed to go together, even if you're not following my recipes exactly.

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