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Baked Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 55 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Prepare Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, brown sugar, and olive oil or melted butter. Mix well to form a paste.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.