Easy Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

Craving a sweet and savory chicken dish that’s both quick and delicious? This Easy Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Perfectly seared chicken breasts coated in a rich glaze of brown sugar and garlic deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe comes together effortlessly and is sure to impress.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to ensure proper searing.
2. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Brown Sugar Garlic Sauce

1. Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the brown sugar, chicken broth, and soy sauce, whisking until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth.
4. Add thyme or parsley if desired for a touch of freshness.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

1. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer for 7-10 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
3. Turn the chicken occasionally to coat it evenly in the sauce.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Balanced Flavor Profile

The sweetness of brown sugar pairs beautifully with the savory garlic, creating a well-rounded glaze.

2. Simple Ingredients

This recipe uses pantry staples, making it easy to whip up anytime.

3. Quick and Easy

With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a gourmet meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

1. Side Dishes to Complement

• Mashed Potatoes: The rich sauce pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make a great side.
• Rice or Quinoa: These grains soak up the sauce beautifully.

2. Garnish Ideas

• Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.

2. Use Fresh Garlic

Freshly minced garlic provides a more robust flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.

3. Adjust the Sauce Consistency

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of chicken broth or water.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a bit of heat.

2. Citrus Twist

Squeeze fresh lemon or orange juice into the sauce for a tangy flavor boost.

3. Herbaceous Flavor

Swap thyme for rosemary or oregano to change up the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a flavorful and juicy alternative. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.

2. What type of brown sugar works best?

Both light and dark brown sugar work well. Dark brown sugar will give the sauce a deeper molasses flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

4. How can I make this recipe low-sodium?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip adding extra salt to the chicken.

5. Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, after searing the chicken, pour the sauce over it and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Conclusion

This Easy Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a flavorful dish that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. With its minimal prep time and mouthwatering glaze, it’s destined to become a go-to recipe in your household. Whether served with veggies, rice, or potatoes, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Yield: 4

Easy Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

Print

Craving a sweet and savory chicken dish that’s both quick and delicious? This Easy Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Perfectly seared chicken breasts coated in a rich glaze of brown sugar and garlic deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe comes together effortlessly and is sure to impress.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ⅓ cup (70g) brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven (Optional):If you plan to finish the chicken in the oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken:Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cook the Chicken:Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce:In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the brown sugar, mixing well to create a glossy sauce.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the brown sugar garlic sauce over each piece. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve:Garnish the chicken with fresh parsley before serving. Pair with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Notes

Bone-In Option: This recipe works well with bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Sweet and Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Double the Sauce: For extra flavor, double the sauce ingredients and drizzle over rice or vegetables.