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Plate of garlic brown sugar chicken with vibrant vegetables

Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken

A delightful fusion of savory and sweet, this Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken features tender chicken breasts coated in a luscious garlic and brown sugar sauce, creating a caramelized finish that's perfect for any dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
For the sauce
  • 5 cloves garlic (finely minced)
  • ⅓ cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoons 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, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for finishing)
  • to taste fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish — optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
Sautéing the Garlic
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
Building the Sauce
  1. Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar into the skillet until the mixture forms a smooth sauce.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Place the seasoned chicken into the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Finishing Touches
  1. Add the butter to the pan and spoon the thickened sauce over the chicken for 1–2 minutes.
Serving
  1. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving with extra sauce spooned over the top.

Notes

For a plant-based version, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Add extra vegetables for a complete meal.