Sweet and Garlicky Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

This brown sugar chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser, featuring a crisp, golden exterior and a mouthwatering sweet and savory garlic sauce. With pantry staples like honey and dried herbs, home cook Jason delivers a flavorful dish that’s simple to make and irresistible for all tastes. For an easy yet satisfying dinner, try these garlicky brown sugar chicken thighs.

How to Prepare Brown Sugar Chicken

Craving a bite that's tender, sweet, savory, and crispy all in one? Below you'll find the complete recipe, along with easy-to-follow steps, to create this highly-rated dish that will impress anyone who tries it.

Begin by browning seasoned chicken thighs in an oven-safe skillet until the skin crisps up. Set the chicken aside, then cook minced garlic, brown sugar, honey, and herbs in the pan drippings. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and roast in the oven until the skin is crispy and the juices run clear.

Boneless or Bone-In Thighs for Brown Sugar Chicken?

Both boneless and bone-in chicken thighs are great, budget-friendly choices for oven-baked dishes, but bone-in thighs offer superior flavor. The marrow in the bones infuses the meat as it cooks, delivering a deep, rich taste.

Boneless thighs are perfect for when you're short on time — you'll still enjoy the sweet, tangy flavors, but with a faster cook time.

What to Serve With Brown Sugar Chicken

This flavorful oven-roasted chicken pairs well with just about any side. For a balanced meal, try serving garlic brown sugar chicken alongside roasted vegetables or a creamy risotto to offset the sweetness. A side of garlicky toast or a zesty potato salad would also make excellent companions to this dish.

How to Store Brown Sugar Chicken

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat thoroughly before enjoying again.

Can I Freeze Brown Sugar Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze leftover garlic brown sugar chicken for up to three months. Let it cool to room temperature, then place it in a plastic freezer bag, pressing out any air before sealing. For the best results, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.

Dinogo Community Insights and Praise

"This dish makes a fantastic dinner party centerpiece since it’s seared first and finished in the oven, allowing you to prep sides and set the table in the meantime," says home cook Suzy. "I also used legs and wings."

"My whole family adored it, even my picky 5-year-old," shares reviewer lovelylaurie330. "Thank you for giving me a new favorite recipe for the family!"

"My kids and husband (who are usually tough critics) fought over the last pieces and the sauce!" exclaims Carrie. "I used skinless, boneless chicken breasts since that’s what I had thawed. They loved it!"

Editorial contributions by Rai Mincey

Ingredients List

• 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

Prepare all the necessary ingredients.

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the pan, skin-side down, and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the brown sugar, honey, oregano, thyme, and basil, blending everything together. Turn off the heat and place the chicken back in the skillet, skin-side down.

Roast in the preheated oven until the chicken is cooked through, the bone is no longer pink, and the juices run clear, about 25 to 40 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for a temperature of 165°F (74°C) near the bone.

Drizzle the pan sauce over the chicken thighs just before serving.

Recipe Tip

Nutritional Information (per serving)