Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Tender chicken thighs with a sweet garlic glaze and a little tang. This approachable version keeps the method straightforward, with familiar ingredients and a few small details that make dinner easier.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Familiar ingredients with plenty of flavor.
• About 35 minutes from prep to table.
• Easy to round out with rice and sautéed cabbage.

What you’ll need

Keep everything measured and close by before you start. You’ll find the full quantities in the printable recipe card below.

• 1½ lb boneless chicken thighs
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup water

Let’s make it

1. 01

   Get ready

   Season chicken with salt and pepper. Brown it in oil over medium-high heat for 4 minutes per side.

2. 02

   Build the flavor

   Whisk brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and water together.

3. 03

   Bring it together

   Lower the heat and pour the mixture over the chicken.

4. 04

   Finish cooking

   Simmer gently for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken reaches 165°F and the sauce thickens.

5. 05

   Serve and enjoy

   Rest briefly and spoon the glaze over the chicken to serve.

Make It Even Better

Keep the glaze moving at the end so the sugar does not catch.

Read through the recipe and measure the ingredients before starting.

Make it your own

Use rice vinegar or add a small pinch of chili flakes.

What to serve with it

Rice and sautéed cabbage

Storage & reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in a shallow, covered container within 2 hours. Use within 3 days. Reheat gently until the center reaches 165°F, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.