Description

This Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken recipe features juicy boneless chicken breasts or thighs cooked in a sweet and savory glaze made from brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of apple cider vinegar. Sautéed in olive oil then finished with butter for a rich, glossy finish, this dish is bursting with flavor and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Sauce and Seasoning

3 tablespoons olive oil
5 cloves garlic, finely minced
⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for finishing)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish – optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the chicken brown better. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder to infuse flavor directly into the meat.
Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and cook for 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown or burn, which could cause bitterness.
Build the Sauce: Stir the brown sugar, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar into the skillet with the garlic. Allow the mixture to gently bubble to dissolve the brown sugar completely and develop a smooth, glossy sauce.
Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts or thighs into the skillet with the sauce. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, frequently spooning the sauce over the chicken as it cooks. Continue until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Finish the Glaze: Add the unsalted butter to the pan and spoon the thickened, shiny sauce over the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes. This step enriches the flavor and gives the sauce a beautiful, glossy finish.
Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately with extra sauce spooned over the top for maximum flavor.

Notes

For a spicier version, increase or do not omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result.
Serve this dish alongside steamed rice or roasted vegetables to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken, Sweet and Savory Chicken, Skillet Chicken, Easy Chicken Dinner, Quick Chicken Recipe