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–+ servings
Delicious brown sugar garlic chicken served on a plate with garnishes

Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

A delicious and quick dish combining sweet brown sugar and savory garlic with pan-seared chicken thighs, perfect for busy weeknights.
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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: 300
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs Affordable and forgiving cut.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or canola oil For searing the chicken.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar Can be reduced to 1/3 cup for less sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce Use low-sodium if preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Brightens the flavor of the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Adds depth to the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger For additional flavor.
  • Pinch red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water Slurry to thicken the sauce.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken in a single layer and sear without moving for 4 to 5 minutes until golden. Flip and sear the other side for 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer the thighs to a plate and set aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let it brown.
Cooking
  1. Whisk brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes into the skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  2. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling each piece into the sauce. Spoon sauce over the tops and simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until an instant-read thermometer registers 165°F in the thickest part.
  3. Whisk the cornstarch slurry again and slowly pour it into the simmering sauce while stirring constantly. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze that coats the chicken.
  4. Remove from heat and serve immediately, spooning extra glaze over each piece.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 700mgSugar: 15g

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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