Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs
A delicious blend of sweet and savory, these Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs feature caramelized glaze, crispy skin, and juicy meat for a satisfying meal any day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs Use fresh for best results.
- 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil For searing.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water Use broth for richer flavor.
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice
- to taste Fresh parsley or chives for garnish Adds color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create a dry rub.
- Evenly sprinkle the spice rub all over the chicken thighs, focusing on massaging it into the skin.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken thighs to skin-side up, then pour chicken broth and apple cider vinegar into the skillet around them.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving
- Spoon pan juices over the chicken and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
For best results, consider marinating the chicken overnight with the rub. You can also substitute the spices to suit your taste. If you're looking for a healthier version, reduce the sugar or use a substitute.