If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dinner that comes together in no time, this Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken is the answer! With just a handful of ingredients and a quick prep, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The chicken turns out juicy and tender, coated in a sweet honey-garlic glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This recipe uses only five main ingredients and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Glaze: The combination of garlic, brown sugar, and olive oil creates a sweet and savory glaze that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite veggies for a complete meal.
- Minimal Cleanup: Pro tip line your casserole dish with foil for easy cleanup!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 3 teaspoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish or line it with foil for easy cleanup.
2. Sauté the Garlic
In a small sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until tender and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Once done, turn off the heat and stir in the brown sugar until it forms a thick, sticky mixture.
3. Prep the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared casserole dish in a single layer. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Pour the garlic and brown sugar mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.
4. Bake the Chicken
Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken should have a caramelized, golden-brown glaze.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with fluffy rice and a fresh vegetable salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget to drizzle any extra sauce from the pan over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor!
Tips for the Best Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken
- Thin Chicken Breasts: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider slicing them in half or pounding them thinner for quicker cooking and even results.
- Add a Kick: For a bit of spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic and brown sugar mixture.
- Extra Sauce: Love sauce? Double the garlic, brown sugar, and olive oil mixture to have extra for drizzling over your sides.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the garlic and brown sugar topping in advance. Store it in the fridge, then pour over the chicken when ready to bake.
What to Serve with Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: The sweet glaze pairs well with simple grains that soak up all that flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a colorful plate.
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the sweet and savory chicken perfectly.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If using the oven, cover it with foil to prevent drying it out.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken is a foolproof recipe that’s sure to impress. The irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors will have everyone asking for seconds. So, next time you’re looking for an easy dinner idea, give this recipe a try you won’t be disappointed!