Amazing 1-Pan Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Thighs
A delicious one-pan dish featuring tender chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and savory sauce made from brown sugar and garlic, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce Ingredients
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
Sauce Preparation
- Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let it burn.
- Whisk in the brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Cooking Chicken
- Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken.
- Simmer for 8-10 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Whisk the cornstarch slurry again and pour it slowly into the simmering sauce while stirring constantly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens into a rich glaze.
- Remove from heat. Serve the chicken immediately coated generously with the brown sugar garlic glaze.
Notes
Serve with a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes to balance the richness. For garnishing, use freshly chopped parsley or sesame seeds.