Baked Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken

Name: Baked Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar, packed; 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Isabella

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This baked garlic brown sugar chicken recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet. Tender chicken is coated in a rich mixture of garlic and brown sugar, baked to perfection, and garnished with fresh parsley for a simple yet flavorful meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings.

It delivers a perfect balance of savory garlic and sweet brown sugar flavors.

Minimal ingredients are needed, most of which are pantry staples.

It’s versatile, pairing well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or veggies.

The dish looks elegant yet requires no advanced cooking skills.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

4 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar, packed

2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).

Make the Garlic Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, brown sugar, and olive oil (or melted butter) until a paste forms.

Assemble the Dish:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spread the garlic brown sugar mixture evenly over the chicken, coating the tops.

Bake the Chicken:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For a caramelized finish, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Garnish and Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the garlic brown sugar mixture for a spicy twist.

Herbaceous Touch: Include dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor depth.

Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest to the mixture for a refreshing citrus note.

Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with pork chops or turkey cutlets for a variation.

Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, such as brown sugar and spices, are certified gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Related Recipes:

Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast

FAQs

How can I tell if the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the chicken.

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken can be used, but the cooking time will need to be increased by 10-15 minutes.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad make excellent accompaniments.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover chicken can be shredded and used in sandwiches, wraps, or salads for a quick and tasty meal.

Conclusion

This baked garlic brown sugar chicken recipe is an effortless way to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether served alongside hearty sides or light greens, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, all in a quick and simple preparation.

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