Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken
A sticky, savory skillet chicken that balances sweet, savory, and a touch of acid, perfect for weeknight dinners and crowd-pleasing meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1½–2 lbs total) Thighs add more fat and stay juicier.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or neutral oil) Use as needed for sautéing.
- 5 cloves garlic, finely minced Watch closely to avoid burning.
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed Light brown works best for a mild molasses flavor.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce Use low-sodium if watching salt.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Can substitute with lemon juice.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika For depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust based on preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) For heat.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for finishing) Add at the end for sheen.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm until shimmering.
Cooking
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds, stirring constantly, just until fragrant. Don’t let it brown or it will taste bitter.
- Stir the brown sugar, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar into the skillet. Allow the mixture to bubble gently and the sugar to dissolve into a smooth sauce (about 1–2 minutes).
- Place the seasoned chicken pieces into the skillet in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 5–6 minutes per side, spooning the sauce over the top every minute or so to baste and build a glaze.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Reduce heat to low and add the tablespoon of butter. Spoon the buttered sauce over the chicken for 1–2 minutes until the glaze is glossy and coats the chicken.
- Remove from heat, transfer chicken to plates, spoon any extra sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Serve with sides that soak up the sauce like jasmine rice, mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or pair with tortillas for tacos.