Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken
Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken is a sweet and savory dish featuring a mouthwatering glaze that perfectly complements rice or vegetables, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) for heat
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
- 5 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for finishing)
Garnish
- to taste Fresh parsley (chopped) optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
Sautéing
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds, just until fragrant. Do not brown.
Making the Sauce
- Stir the brown sugar, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar into the skillet. Allow the mixture to gently bubble and dissolve into a smooth sauce.
Cooking the Chicken
- Place the chicken into the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, spooning the sauce over the chicken as it cooks, until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Finishing Touch
- Add the butter to the pan and spoon the thickened, glossy sauce over the chicken for 1–2 minutes until rich and shiny.
Serving
- Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately with extra sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help it sear better. Keep an eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning. You can adjust the brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness. If you like a bit of heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes.