Introduction

Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that combines savory garlic with the sweetness of brown sugar and the depth of soy sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with a sticky, caramelized sauce that coats tender chicken thighs beautifully.

Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken thighs until they are browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic, brown sugar, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky, coating the chicken nicely.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but watch cooking time to prevent drying out.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of spice.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the sticky sauce and avoid drying out the chicken.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sugar instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different but equally delicious sweetness.

Is it necessary to use soy sauce?

Soy sauce provides the salty umami flavor that balances the sweetness. You can use tamari or coconut aminos as gluten-free alternatives.

Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 68 reviews

This Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken recipe features tender chicken thighs simmered in a savory and sweet sauce made from garlic, brown sugar, and soy sauce. The sauce thickens to a sticky glaze that perfectly coats the chicken, creating a deliciously balanced dish that’s quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop.

Author: Maya
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken thighs

Sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup soy sauce

Instructions

Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken thighs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the brown sugar and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
Simmer Until Sticky: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the chicken, until the sauce thickens into a sticky glaze that clings to the chicken.