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Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken cooking in a skillet with a sticky brown glaze

Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken

Tender, juicy chicken is coated in a sticky brown sugar glaze with plenty of rich garlic flavor, then cooked until caramelized.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 5 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar packed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 45 seconds, just until fragrant. Do not brown.
  3. Stir the brown sugar, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar into the skillet. Allow the mixture to gently bubble and dissolve into a smooth sauce.
  4. Place the chicken into the skillet. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, spooning the sauce over the chicken as it cooks, until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Add the butter to the pan and spoon the thickened, glossy sauce over the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes until rich and shiny.
  6. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately with extra sauce spooned over the top.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to avoid burning the sugary glaze.