Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

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This Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is the perfect fusion of sticky-sweet goodness and deep, garlicky richness. With every bite, you’re treated to tender chicken glazed in a caramelized sauce that clings to the surface and sinks into the juicy meat. It’s the kind of dinner that makes a weeknight feel like a celebration.

Whether you’re hosting friends or just want something truly special for dinner, this chicken dish is a winner. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad. Plus, it’s made with everyday ingredients and comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this recipe, boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal. They offer more flavor and stay juicy during cooking. However, boneless chicken breasts work too—just be mindful of the cook time to avoid drying out. Want bite-size pieces like the ones in the photo? Cube your chicken before marinating for maximum flavor absorption.

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Ingredients for the Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Chicken thighs – Juicy, flavorful, and tender even after cooking. Thighs are the best cut for soaking up all that garlicky sweetness.

Brown sugar – Adds the signature sweet note and helps the sauce caramelize beautifully in the pan.

Garlic cloves – Freshly minced garlic gives the dish its bold, savory aroma and deepens the flavor of the glaze.

Soy sauce – Balances the sweetness with a salty edge and brings umami depth to the dish.

Butter – Creates a silky base for the sauce and helps everything caramelize into a sticky glaze.

Olive oil – Used for searing the chicken, locking in moisture and adding richness.

Salt and pepper – Simple but essential to round out all the flavors.

Fresh parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness as a garnish right before serving.

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How To Make the Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. If you’re using larger pieces, consider cutting them into smaller chunks for more caramelized surface area.

Step 2: Sear to Lock In Flavor

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking them through just yet—they’ll finish in the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant. Stir in the brown sugar and soy sauce, mixing until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Coat and Cook

Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the glaze. Let it simmer for another 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and glazed with a sticky sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. It’s perfect over rice, mashed potatoes, or with roasted veggies.

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Serving and Storing Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

This chicken is best served fresh and hot, right out of the skillet. Pair it with fluffy white rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or lightly roasted broccoli for a balanced meal. The sweet glaze also works beautifully with crusty bread to mop up every last drop of sauce.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken. The sauce may thicken when chilled, so a splash of water or broth will help revive it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used. Just be sure to cut them into smaller pieces and watch the cooking time closely, as breasts tend to dry out more quickly than thighs.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze and sear the chicken in advance. Store separately and combine in the skillet when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It is! Once cooked and cooled, freeze in a sealed container. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the glaze.

What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or sauteed spinach complement the sweet-savory flavors well.

How do I avoid burning the sugar?

Keep the heat at medium when adding the brown sugar. Stir continuously and add a bit of water if the glaze becomes too thick or starts sticking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken in batches and then combine everything with the glaze at the end.

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