This recipe redefines easy weeknight dinners by combining the viral "swicy" (sweet and spicy) flavor trend with the set-it-and-forget-it convenience of a rice cooker. We use gochujang, honey, and soy sauce to create a rich marinade that glazes boneless chicken thighs. By searing the chicken first, we develop deep, caramelized flavors before layering it over jasmine rice to cook together. The rice absorbs all the savory drippings, resulting in a perfectly tender chicken and flavor-infused rice with minimal cleanup. This is the ultimate method for achieving maximum flavor with minimum effort.
In a medium bowl, whisk together all "Swicy Marinade Sauce" ingredients (gochujang, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger) until smooth. Add the cut chicken pieces to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the rice.
Heat the cooking oil in a skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned and caramelized edges form. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked through at this stage. Remove from heat.
Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly and place it in the inner pot of the rice cooker. Add the 2 cups of water (or broth).
Layer the seared chicken pieces (and any remaining marinade from the bowl/pan) evenly on top of the uncooked rice and water. Secure the lid on the rice cooker. Select the standard "White Rice" setting.
Cooking Time Note: The cooking cycle will typically take 25–35 minutes, depending on your rice cooker model. Trust the machine's cycle rather than setting a manual timer.
Once the rice cooker cycle finishes and switches to "Keep Warm," let it rest undisturbed for 10 minutes. After resting, open the lid and check the internal temperature of several larger chicken pieces with an instant-read thermometer. The temperature must reach (). If it hasn't (unlikely for 1-inch pieces), close the lid and let it continue steaming on "Keep Warm" for another 5-10 minutes before checking again.
Fluff the rice and gently mix the chicken into it. Serve immediately, topped with fresh green onions and sesame seeds to add texture and a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
Servings 4
Serving Size 1 Serve
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
G'day, We're Alex & Nettie! We're an Aussie couple based in Perth Australia, and we're passionate about creating quick, healthy meals that are bursting with flavour. Here you'll find simple and delicious recipes, complete with step-by-step instructions to guarantee perfect results every time. Happy cooking!
