You got it — sticky, garlicky, sweet-savory perfection. 😋
Here’s a Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken that’s easy and dangerously good.
Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken
Ingredients
- 4–6 chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt & black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Skillet Method (Best for Caramelization)
- Season chicken generously with salt & pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high.
- Sear chicken 4–5 min per side until golden; remove and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds.
- Stir in brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Return chicken to pan, spoon sauce over.
- Simmer 8–12 minutes, flipping once, until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through.
Oven Option
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sear chicken as above.
- Transfer to baking dish, pour sauce over.
- Bake 20–25 minutes, basting once.
Serve With
- Steamed rice or mashed potatoes
- Roasted broccoli or green beans
- Sprinkle of sesame seeds or green onions
Pro Tips
- Thighs stay juicier, but breasts work fine.
- Sauce thickens fast — don’t walk away.
- Add 1 tbsp butter at the end for glossy, restaurant vibes ✨
Want a slow cooker, air fryer, or spicy honey-garlic twist?
