Caramelized Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken
This Caramelized Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of brown sugar and the aromatic richness of garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also low in calories, making it a family-friendly favorite. The chicken tenderloins cook up juicy and tender, blending wonderfully with the buttery garlic sauce and the caramelized sweetness. Serve it alongside your choice of grains and a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Brown Sugar
4 teaspoons (unpacked)
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
4 (whole)
Garlic Clove
1 (minced)
Salted Butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
Salt
to taste (as desired)
Pepper
to taste (as desired)
Instructions
1
In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2
Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
3
Gently place the chicken breasts into the frying pan, ensuring they are well coated with the garlic butter.
4
Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Season with salt and pepper to taste during cooking.
5
Once the chicken is fully cooked, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over each breast, allowing it to melt and caramelize for about 5 minutes.
6
Reduce heat if necessary to prevent burning, and gently flip the chicken to ensure it’s coated in the caramelized brown sugar.
7
Remove from heat and serve the chicken warm with your favorite carbs and a side of vegetables or salad.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Caramelized Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken?
It is a flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the aromatic richness of garlic, creating a buttery and caramelized sauce for chicken.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What are the main ingredients for this chicken dish?
The main ingredients include 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, 4 teaspoons of brown sugar, 1 garlic clove, and 2 tablespoons of salted butter.
How long does it take to cook the chicken breasts?
The chicken breasts should be cooked for about 6-7 minutes on each side.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
When do I add the brown sugar?
Sprinkle the brown sugar over the chicken once it is fully cooked, allowing it to melt and caramelize for about 5 minutes.
How do I prepare the garlic?
The garlic clove should be minced and then sautéed in melted butter for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a low-calorie and family-friendly meal option.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for boneless skinless chicken breasts, though chicken tenderloins are also mentioned as a juicy alternative.
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, while the ingredient list mentions salted butter, the preparation notes suggest unsalted is also an option.
What side dishes go well with this chicken?
It pairs perfectly with grains like rice or quinoa, as well as a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Only sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and ensure the butter is not over high heat.
What should I do if the brown sugar starts to burn?
Reduce the heat during the caramelization process if the sugar appears to be darkening too quickly.
Is this a one-pan meal?
Yes, the entire dish is prepared in a single large frying pan, making cleanup easier.
How many calories are in this dish?
While specific nutritional data is not provided, the recipe is categorized as a low-calorie meal.
How do I ensure the chicken is coated in the sauce?
Gently flip the chicken after adding the brown sugar to ensure both sides are coated in the caramelized glaze.
What is the first step in making this recipe?
The first step is to melt the butter in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Do I need to season the chicken?
Yes, you should season with salt and pepper to taste while the chicken is cooking in the pan.
Is this recipe suitable for a busy weeknight?
Yes, it is specifically noted as a quick and easy recipe for busy schedules.
How do I know the garlic is ready for the chicken?
The garlic is ready when it becomes fragrant, usually after 1 to 2 minutes of sautéing.
Should the brown sugar be packed or unpacked?
The recipe specifies using 4 teaspoons of unpacked brown sugar.
Can I use more than one garlic clove?
While the recipe calls for 1 clove, you can adjust the amount based on your preference for garlic flavor.
What is the texture of the chicken after cooking?
The chicken becomes juicy and tender with a sweet, sticky caramelized exterior.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your butter and spice labels to be certain.
How do I serve the chicken?
Remove from heat and serve immediately while warm for the best flavor.
What category does this meal fall into?
This recipe is categorized as a One Dish Meal.
Does this recipe use oil?
No, this recipe uses butter as the primary cooking fat.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 6 total ingredients: chicken, brown sugar, garlic, butter, salt, and pepper.
Is the chicken cooked whole or sliced?
The instructions indicate cooking the chicken breasts whole.
What makes the chicken 'caramelized'?
The combination of butter and brown sugar melting over the heat creates a caramelized glaze on the chicken.