Introduction
If you’re looking for a sweet, savory, and garlicky chicken recipe that’s quick and satisfying, this Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken will become your go-to dinner. With crispy seared chicken coated in a sticky glaze of brown sugar, garlic, and butter, it’s the kind of dish that feels restaurant-quality yet takes just 30 minutes to make.
This recipe is perfect for weeknights but delicious enough to serve at gatherings. The caramelized garlic-brown sugar sauce pairs beautifully with rice, veggies, or even mashed potatoes — comfort food at its best.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Timing
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of smoked paprika if using.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Brown Sugar Sauce
- In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add brown sugar and soy sauce, stirring until the mixture melts into a sticky glaze.
Step 4: Finish the Chicken
- Return chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce.
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes until chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and glazed.
Step 5: Serve
- Spoon extra sauce over chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Don’t burn the garlic — sauté it gently; burnt garlic turns bitter.
- Thin the sauce with a splash of chicken broth if it’s too thick.
- Double the glaze if serving with rice or noodles — it’s that good!
- Use thighs for a juicier, richer version.
Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 410mg
(Approximate values depending on cut of chicken and soy sauce used.)
Healthier Alternatives
- Swap butter for olive oil for a lighter glaze.
- Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a refined sugar-free option.
- Pair with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb dinner.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over fluffy white rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles.
- Pair with roasted broccoli, green beans, or a crisp side salad.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a sweet-and-spicy twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan — sear chicken in batches for best browning.
- Overcooking — remove chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F / 74°C.
- Not reducing the sauce — let it simmer a few minutes for that glossy, sticky finish.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen sauce.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken without sauce for up to 2 months; thaw and make fresh glaze when ready.
Conclusion
This Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels like a special treat.
👉 Make it tonight and watch it become a family favorite!
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