Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken on a Plate - Delicious Dinner Idea
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Indulging in savory dishes is always rewarding, and few recipes stand out like Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken. This mouthwatering meal combines the deep, rich flavors of caramelized brown sugar with the robust essence of garlic, creating a delightful harmony that tantalizes the taste buds. As the chicken cooks, it absorbs these exquisite flavors, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Moreover, this sweet and savory chicken recipe is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Whether served over rice or alongside fresh vegetables, the allure of garlic-infused sweetness makes it a favorite among home cooks. Get ready to impress your guests and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience with this standout recipe!

Ingredients

To create the delightful Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper – to season the chicken according to your taste

For the delicious sauce, gather:

IngredientAmountPurpose/Notes
Brown sugar¼ cupGives the chicken a rich sweetness
Water1 TbspHelps combine the ingredients smoothly
Garlic powder1 tspAdds aromatic flavor
Dried thyme1 tspAdds an earthy dimension to the dish
Salt½ tspEnhances all the flavors
Ground black pepper¼ tspAdds a slight kick

This simple yet flavorful chicken dish pairs wonderfully with side options like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. For a unique twist, consider trying out Garlic Chicken with Spinach as a delightful complement to your meal. The interplay of sweet and savory in Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is sure to impress your family or guests, making it a go-to option for busy weeknight dinners. Enjoy!

Cooking Steps for Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

  • Chicken thighs
  • Brown sugar
  • Soy sauce
  • Garlic
  • Ginger

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

  • In a bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
  • Mix well to create a sweet and savory marinade.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

  • Coat the chicken evenly with the marinade.
  • Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, preferably in the refrigerator, to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

  • Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish.
  • Pour any leftover marinade over the chicken.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Optional Broil

  • For a caramelized finish, broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking.

Step 7: Serve

  • Serve your Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken with steamed vegetables or fluffy rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfecting Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

  • Marinate the chicken in a mixture of brown sugar and garlic for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderize the meat.
  • Cook the chicken over medium-high heat to achieve a caramelized crust while keeping it juicy inside.
  • Add a splash of soy sauce for an extra umami boost.
  • Monitor cooking time carefully to prevent overcooking and dryness.
  • For a delicious variation, serve alongside garlic chicken with spinach for a complete meal experience.

Finally, for a sweet twist, use a recipe from AllRecipes that highlights the wonderful interplay of garlic and brown sugar. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Serving Suggestions

Side Dish / AccompanimentPurpose / Notes
Green salad with spinachAdds freshness and balances sweet and savory flavors
Steamed broccoliProvides a healthy touch and vibrant color
Chicken and BroccoliComplements the garlic chicken for a wholesome meal
Jasmine rice or garlic mashed potatoesSoaks up the delicious glaze
Sliced green onions or sesame seedsGarnishes for visual appeal and extra flavor

Storage Tips

  • Let the cooked chicken cool to room temperature before storing.
  • Transfer to an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure food safety.
  • For longer storage, freeze portions: wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
  • Frozen chicken can last up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Use leftover chicken creatively, such as in wraps with fresh greens, like Chicken and Apple Kale Wraps, for a healthy, reinvented meal.

Nutritional Information of Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken delivers a delightful blend of flavors while being a nutritious choice for meals. Each serving provides a balanced mix of protein and carbohydrates, essential for energy. Additionally, this dish is lower in fat, making it a great option for health-conscious diners. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with nutritious options like Chicken and Apple Kale Wraps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?

Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the savory notes of garlic. This delicacy features succulent chicken pieces marinated in a rich sauce, creating a balance that tantalizes your taste buds.

How do I prepare Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?

Preparation involves marinating chicken in a mixture of brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, and other spices. Searing the chicken until golden brown followed by baking gives it a delicious glaze. If you’re short on time, you may find recipes for simple chicken dishes like Honey Garlic Chicken Bites useful.

What should I serve with this dish?

To complement Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken, consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. This pairing enhances the meal while providing a colorful plate.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights chicken, you could substitute pork or even tofu for a delightful twist, ensuring it remains enjoyable for everyone.

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Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken on a Plate - Delicious Dinner Idea

Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken


  • Author: Julia
  • Total Time: 65–70 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Savor the perfect balance of sweet and savory with Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken. Juicy, flavorful, and easy to make—ideal for family dinners or weeknight meals!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce / Marinade:

¼ cup brown sugar

1 Tbsp water

1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)

1 tsp dried thyme

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp ground black pepper

2 tsp soy sauce (optional for extra umami)

1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)


Instructions

  1. Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, water, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and ginger. Mix until smooth.
  2. Marinate Chicken: Coat chicken evenly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes in the fridge to absorb flavors.
  3. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Bake Chicken: Place marinated chicken in a baking dish. Pour remaining marinade over the top. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Optional Broil: For a caramelized finish, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end.
  6. Serve: Pair with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Marinate for longer (up to 2 hours) for deeper flavor.

Ensure not to overcrowd the baking dish for even cooking.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg

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