Name: Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup packed brown sugar; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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There’s something downright irresistible about the way savory meets sweet in Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken. Imagine juicy chicken breasts seared to a golden finish, then bathed in a buttery, garlicky sauce laced with brown sugar, honey, and a touch of soy sauce for depth. Each bite is packed with vibrant flavor and the ultimate comfort—all done from stovetop to oven in under 40 minutes! Whether you need a speedy family dinner or want to impress your friends without breaking a sweat, this dish delivers a glorious medley that’s guaranteed to win over any crowd.

Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients are the secret behind this dazzling dish. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s flavor, richness, color, or a splash of aroma. Here’s what makes Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken sing:

Chicken Breasts: Tender, boneless, and skinless—perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
Olive Oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps achieve that irresistible golden sear on the chicken.
Unsalted Butter: Gives the sauce a silky body and balances the sweetness with its creamy flavor.
Garlic: Four cloves, minced for maximum fragrance and depth—garlic is a star player here!
Brown Sugar: The key to a caramelized, slightly sticky sauce that makes the dish unforgettable.
Honey: A drizzle to amplify the sweetness and round out the savory flavors.
Soy Sauce: Just a tablespoon creates a hint of umami and deepens the sauce color.
Italian Seasoning: Adds a lovely herbal lift that brightens the whole dish.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and making sure the flavors pop.
Black Pepper: For a subtle heat and finishing touch.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped and sprinkled for a burst of color and brightness at serving time.

How to Make Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This not only helps them brown better, but also ensures a crispier surface. Sprinkle both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, pressing gently so the flavors really adhere. Your chicken is already on the road to flavor-town!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a big, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, lay the chicken breasts in and let them sear for about two to three minutes per side. You’re looking for a lovely golden crust—don’t rush this step! Once browned, move the chicken to a plate while you work on the magic sauce.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Brown Sugar Sauce

In that same skillet, add the unsalted butter and let it melt, then toss in your minced garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned (burnt garlic is a big no-no here!). Next, whisk in the brown sugar, honey, and soy sauce. Watch the sauce bubble and blend into a glossy, aromatic mixture.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Return the seared chicken breasts right back into the skillet, making sure each piece is nestled into that luscious sauce. Spoon a bit of sauce over the top to coat each breast. Slide the skillet into a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. You’ll know it’s done when a thermometer reads 165°F at the thickest part.

Step 5: Baste and Finish

Once the chicken is baked to juicy perfection, carefully baste it with those glorious pan juices. Don’t skip this part; it’s what makes Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken so moist and flavorful! Finally, shower the whole dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of freshness and color right before serving.

How to Serve Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken

Garnishes

You can never go wrong with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley across your Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken. If you want a little extra flair, try a light grating of lemon zest or a few scattered red pepper flakes for color and a whisper of spice.

Side Dishes

This dish absolutely shines alongside creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also pair it with steamed green beans, garlic bread, or even a simple arugula salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the chicken and fanning it out over your favorite grain bowl, drizzling extra sauce over the top. Or, pile it inside warm rolls for a saucy chicken sandwich—perfect for casual dinners or sharing at parties. No matter your crowd, Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken rises to the occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful, making next-day lunches a treat.

Freezing

Want to stash some for later? Let the chicken cool completely, then wrap it tightly or pop it into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm the chicken gently in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil to keep it moist, for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat individual pieces in the microwave with a splash of sauce to keep things juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly juicier and pack even more flavor. Simply adjust the baking time as thighs may need a few extra minutes—just check for doneness at 165°F.

Is Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, if you use a gluten-free soy sauce, the recipe is totally gluten-free. Always double-check every ingredient label just to be sure!

Can I make this recipe without an oven-safe skillet?

You sure can. After making your sauce on the stovetop, transfer everything to a baking dish and finish baking in the oven as directed. Just pour the sauce over the chicken in your dish before baking!

What can I do if my sauce gets too thick?

Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water, stir gently, and the sauce will loosen right up. This helps if your oven runs hot or the sauce reduces more than usual during baking.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Double all the ingredients and use a larger skillet or two batches. Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken is a guaranteed hit at potlucks, parties, and family gatherings.

Final Thoughts

If you love quick, crowd-pleasing meals with big flavors, Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation. The sweet, savory, and garlicky sauce is one you’ll want to drizzle over everything, and the recipe is flexible enough for both weeknights and special occasions. Give it a go—you just might find your new favorite!

Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 23 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, then baked in a flavorful garlic brown sugar sauce. Easy to make and incredibly tasty!

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet. Sear chicken breasts until golden brown, then remove.
Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, add garlic, then stir in brown sugar, honey, and soy sauce.
Bake: Return chicken to skillet, bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked.
Finish and Serve: Baste with sauce, garnish with parsley before serving.