Description
A delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, this Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for finishing)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish – optional)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir the brown sugar, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar into the skillet. Allow to gently bubble and dissolve into a smooth sauce.
- Place the chicken into the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, spooning sauce over the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Add the butter to the pan and spoon the thickened sauce over the chicken for 1–2 minutes until rich and shiny.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately with extra sauce.
Notes
For best results, serve with steamed rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. Can also be paired with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: chicken, garlic, brown sugar, sweet and savory, easy recipe