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Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken

Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken: Sweet & Savory Comfort Dish

Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken is a delightful sweet and savory dish, perfect for busy weeknights and crowd-pleasing dinner parties.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts Thighs are juicier and provide robust flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Helps grease the baking dish.
  • 4 cloves Fresh Minced Garlic Avoid jarred garlic for freshness.
  • 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar Creates the dish's signature sticky glaze.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Balances the sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Adds brightness.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Infuses a mild smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adds background flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for subtle heat.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Optional garnish.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the baking dish.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Optionally, add apple cider vinegar.
  4. Pour the sauce over the chicken ensuring generous coating.
  5. Bake for 25–35 minutes, basting halfway through, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. In the last 5 minutes, broil to enhance caramelization. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  7. Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes, and serve warm garnished with parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This dish can be prepped ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

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