Indulge in the succulent flavors of tender chicken thighs glazed with a mouthwatering garlic-brown sugar sauce. This Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a favorite dish for family dinners and special occasions alike. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Follow along with this easy recipe to elevate your chicken game to a whole new level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for this recipe. However, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy.
Q: Can I substitute chicken breasts for the thighs? A: While chicken breasts can be used, thighs are recommended for their richer flavor and tenderness. If using chicken breasts, adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Q: Is it necessary to use fresh garlic, or can I use garlic powder instead? A: Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used as a substitute if needed. Use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic called for in the recipe.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? A: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Ingredients:
- 8 (5 ounce) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Sear the Chicken:
- In a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot and foamy, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up.
4. Make the Garlic-Brown Sugar Glaze:
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the brown sugar, honey, dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried basil. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce is smooth and bubbly.
5. Glaze the Chicken:
- Spoon the garlic-brown sugar glaze evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat each piece generously.
6. Bake the Chicken:
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve the Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken hot with your favorite side dishes.
Cook’s Notes:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the garlic-brown sugar sauce for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking.
- To make a larger batch, simply double or triple the recipe as needed.
- For a crispier skin, broil the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic-brown sugar sauce for a spicy twist.
- Citrus Zest: Enhance the flavor with a splash of fresh lemon juice or orange zest in the glaze for a citrusy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or sage for a fragrant and savory touch.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For a keto-friendly and low-carb version of this recipe, you can make the following substitutions:
- Sweeteners: Use keto-friendly sweeteners such as erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener instead of brown sugar and honey.
- Flavor Enhancers: Increase the amount of garlic and herbs to enhance the flavor without adding extra carbs.
- Glaze Thickeners: Use xanthan gum or guar gum instead of cornstarch to thicken the glaze without adding carbs.
With its irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, this Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this easy and delicious dish is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try and savor the delectable taste of tender chicken thighs coated in a rich garlic-brown sugar glaze.
