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Clay Pot Crispy Rice with Caramelized Chicken

Vietnamese-style clay pot rice with caramelized chicken thighs, a shatteringly crispy bottom crust, and a savory-sweet glaze. Everything cooks in one skillet in under 25 minutes.

Total time
25 min
Servings
2
Calories
580
Protein
38g
Clay Pot Crispy Rice with Caramelized Chicken
comfortsatisfyingvietnamesechickencrispytenderjuicyweeknight

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Heat 1 tbsp oil in a 12-inch non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, ~60 seconds.

  2. Step 2

    Add chicken pieces and cook without stirring for 3 minutes until golden, then toss and cook 2 more minutes until cooked through.

  3. Step 3

    Push chicken to the side. Add shallots and garlic to the empty space, stir until fragrant, ~90 seconds.

  4. Step 4

    Stir fish sauce and sugar into the chicken. Toss everything together for 30 seconds until the mixture becomes glossy and caramelized.

  5. Step 5

    Transfer the chicken mixture to a plate. Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 2 tbsp oil to the skillet.

  6. Step 6

    Add rice in an even layer, pressing gently. Don't stir—let it sit for 6 minutes until a golden, crispy crust forms on the bottom.

  7. Step 7

    Scatter the caramelized chicken and scallions over the rice. Drizzle with a splash of water, cover, and cook 2 minutes until scallions soften.

  8. Step 8

    Serve directly from the skillet, scraping up the crispy bits from the bottom.

Tools you’ll need

  • 12-inch non-stick or cast-iron skillet with lid
  • cutting board
  • chef's knife
  • wooden spoon or spatula

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