Description
This Baked Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs coated in a sweet and savory garlic brown sugar mixture. Baked to perfection and finished with a quick broil for a caramelized glaze, this recipe is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Garlic Brown Sugar Mixture
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Prepare Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, brown sugar, and olive oil or melted butter. Mix well to form a paste.
- Assemble: Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish. Evenly coat each piece with the garlic brown sugar mixture, making sure all sides are covered for maximum flavor.
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy.
- Broil for Finish: For a beautiful caramelized and slightly crispy glaze, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to prevent under- or overcooking.
- Brown sugar can be packed or loosely measured depending on your sweetness preference.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice smoky depth to the flavor.
- Substitute olive oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
- Resting the chicken before serving helps keep it juicy.
