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A plate of glossy brown sugar garlic chicken garnished with fresh parsley.

One-Pan Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

This easy one-pan recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a savory-sweet brown sugar garlic sauce, baked to caramelized perfection. It's perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Paper towels
  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Small bowls
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 4-5 garlic, minced (or 1.5 teaspoons pre-minced)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh parsley or green onions chopped
  • sesame seeds

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper.
  • Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned, then remove it from the pan and set it aside.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and water or chicken broth. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry.
  • Pour the brown sugar mixture into the hot skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  • Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook and stir for 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens to a glossy consistency.
  • Add the seared chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce.
  • Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly and caramelized.
  • Remove from the oven and, if desired, garnish with fresh parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For even cooking, ensure chicken pieces are roughly the same size. Using chicken thighs tends to yield more tender results. Adjust brown sugar and soy sauce to your taste preferences.