Sink your teeth into these golden, sticky bites of pure satisfaction. Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken combines caramelized richness with a garlicky bite for the kind of dish that disappears fast from the dinner table. Whether you’re hosting guests or just need a standout weeknight dinner, these juicy chunks of chicken deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
What sets this recipe apart is the irresistible glaze. Brown sugar brings the sweet molasses notes, while fresh garlic adds pungency and depth. As the sauce reduces, it coats each tender bite with a glossy, sticky finish that begs for seconds. Serve it over rice, pile it into sliders, or pair it with roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Ingredients for this Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) for thicker sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cut into evenly sized chunks for consistent cooking.
Step 2: Sear for Flavor
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes total. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Glaze
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then pour in the soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir well, allowing the sugar to dissolve.
Step 4: Simmer with the Chicken
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss in the sauce. Add red pepper flakes if using. Let it simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 5: Optional Thickening
For a thicker glaze, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until glossy and rich.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions over the top and serve hot. Pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted greens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of chicken works best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breast can be used as a leaner option.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This chicken tastes great the next day. Make it up to 2 days in advance and reheat gently before serving.
How spicy is this dish?
The crushed red pepper flakes give a mild kick. You can adjust or omit them to suit your preference.
Can I use pre-minced garlic or garlic powder?
Fresh garlic is best for depth of flavor, but in a pinch, 1 tablespoon of pre-minced garlic or 1 teaspoon of garlic powder can be used.
Is it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) to make this recipe fully gluten-free.
What sides go well with this chicken?
Try it with steamed jasmine rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or a side of roasted broccoli or carrots.
Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
Description
Looking for an easy dinner that packs a flavorful punch? This Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken recipe checks all the boxes. Juicy chicken thighs are seared to perfection and coated in a sticky-sweet glaze made from brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic. It’s the kind of weeknight dinner that feels like a treat—fast to prep, big on flavor, and perfect for everything from rice bowls to dinner parties.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick dinner idea, seeking delicious food ideas for guests, or simply need an easy recipe to add to your rotation, this dish delivers. The combination of sweetness and savory garlic hits all the right notes and satisfies every craving.
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) for thicker sauce
Instructions
- Pat chicken thighs dry, season with salt and pepper, and cut into chunks.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken until golden on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic to skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
- Stir in soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar until dissolved.
- Return chicken to skillet and simmer uncovered 10-12 minutes, until sauce thickens.
- (Optional) Stir in cornstarch slurry for a thicker glaze.
- Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve hot.