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A plate of glossy brown sugar garlic chicken garnished with fresh parsley.

Delectable Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

This Delectable Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken features succulent chicken cooked in a rich, sweet, and savory glaze, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Paper towels
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large skillet (cast iron or stainless steel)

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1/2 cup Brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 4-5 cloves Garlic freshly minced
  • 1/4 cup Soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Water or chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch optional
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil or preferred cooking oil
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper or to taste
  • Fresh parsley or green onions optional; for garnish

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  • In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and water or chicken broth; optionally add cornstarch for a thicker sauce.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear chicken for 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown, and set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium, pour the sauce into the skillet, and simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up browned bits until slightly thickened and glossy.
  • Return chicken to the skillet, coat thoroughly with sauce, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, spooning sauce over chicken until fully cooked and glazed.
  • Remove from heat, let it rest, and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired before serving hot.

Notes

Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures even cooking. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste. For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Serving with rice or noodles will make a hearty and delicious meal.