For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of white sugar for the caramel. Adjust the amount of jalapenos based on your spice preference. Serve with a side of steamed bok choy or other Asian greens for a complete meal. To prevent the chicken from sticking, ensure the skillet is well-seasoned and hot before adding the oil.
Vietnamese Caramel Chicken
-
PREP TIME10 mins
-
COOK TIME15 mins
-
TOTAL TIME35 mins
-
SERVING6 People
-
VIEWS10
Savor the delectable fusion of sweet and savory in this Vietnamese Caramel Chicken. Tender chicken thighs are bathed in a rich caramel sauce, infused with the distinct flavors of fish sauce, garlic, and a hint of spice. Served alongside fluffy steamed rice, this dish is a delightful culinary journey to Southeast Asia.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
-
Carbohydrate7 g
-
Cholesterol141 mg
-
Fiber0 g
-
Protein39 g
-
Saturated Fat8 g
-
Sodium676 mg
-
Sugar6 g
-
Fat30 g
-
Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
10 mins
In a shallow dish, combine 2 tablespoons white sugar, 2 tablespoons fish sauce, and black pepper to taste. Marinate the chicken thighs in this mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors. (Prep time: 10 minutes)
02
Step
5 mins
In a separate bowl, prepare the caramel sauce by whisking together 3 tablespoons water, 1 tablespoon fish sauce, 0.5 tablespoon white sugar, and 3 teaspoons rice vinegar. Set this aside. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
03
Step
8 mins
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and carefully place the chicken thighs, skin-side down, into the hot skillet. Pan-fry until the skin turns crispy and golden brown, approximately 5 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook the other side until slightly charred, another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. (Cook time: 10 minutes)
04
Step
1 mins
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the prepared caramel sauce over it. (Cook time: 1 minute)
05
Step
15 mins
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook the chicken in the caramel sauce until it is cooked through, no longer pink at the bone, and the juices run clear. This should take approximately 15-20 minutes. As the sauce simmers, it will reduce and thicken, turning a beautiful amber color. (Cook time: 20 minutes)
06
Step
1 mins
Add the sliced jalapenos to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, allowing their flavors to meld with the caramel sauce. (Cook time: 1 minute)
07
Step
0 mins
Serve the Vietnamese Caramel Chicken hot, accompanied by fluffy steamed rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for an extra touch of elegance.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
RECIPE REVIEWS
LEAVE A REVIEW
Please Rate
Zion Littel
Jun 30, 2025I doubled the sauce because we loved it so much!
Gracie Daniel
Jun 29, 2025Marinating the chicken overnight makes a huge difference in flavor.
Martin Parisian
Jun 28, 2025The jalapenos add the perfect amount of heat. So delicious!
Neil Hermiston
Jun 25, 2025Easy to follow instructions and the result is restaurant-quality chicken.
Eddie Zboncak
Jun 24, 2025This recipe is a game-changer! The caramel sauce is absolutely divine.
Casper Powlowski
Jun 23, 2025I've made this several times now, and it's always a hit with my family.