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Craving a quick, delicious dinner that’s sure to impress? Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs, or Sweet-Savory Chicken Thighs, deliver juicy chicken coated in a rich, garlicky glaze that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining. These juicy glazed chicken thighs are simple to prepare with minimal ingredients, making them a go-to for busy evenings or meal prep. Let’s bake these flavorful baked thighs and enjoy a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal!

Why You’ll Love Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

Quick Prep: Ready in under 40 minutes for fast juicy glazed chicken.
Flavorful: Sweet and savory glaze makes these tasty chicken thighs irresistible.
Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples for easy flavorful baked thighs.
Versatile: Works with thighs or breasts for customizable tasty chicken thighs.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Perfect for make-ahead dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients for Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

Here’s what you need for these juicy glazed chicken thighs (makes ~4 servings):

Base:

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

1 tbsp (15ml) honey
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp rosemary or Italian seasoning
1 tbsp (15ml) soy sauce

Equipment

Baking dish or sheet pan
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons and cups
Garlic press or knife
Basting brush (optional)

Ingredient Tips

Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on thighs ensure juicier flavorful baked thighs; boneless works too.
Brown Sugar: Packs tightly for accurate measurement in these juicy glazed chicken thighs.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the glaze for tasty chicken thighs.
Spices: Swap thyme for rosemary or skip for simpler juicy glazed chicken.
Soy Sauce: Adds umami depth; use low-sodium for balanced flavorful baked thighs.

Directions for Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

Let’s make these tasty chicken thighs—a sweet and savory delight!

Prep Chicken

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). I pat 8 chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper for these juicy glazed chicken thighs.

Make Glaze

In a bowl, I mix ½ cup brown sugar, 6 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp olive oil, and 1 tsp thyme (if using) into a thick paste. I spread it evenly over the chicken, pressing lightly to adhere.

Bake Chicken

I arrange the thighs in a single layer in a baking dish, ensuring space for crisp skin. I bake for 35–40 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is caramelized.

Rest and Serve

I let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm for perfect flavorful baked thighs.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Servings: ~4 servings (2 thighs per person)
Calories: ~400–450 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 20g carbs, 30g protein, 25g fat, 0g fiber

Variations for Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

Try these spins on these tasty chicken thighs:

Honey-Glazed: Add 1 tbsp honey for richer, stickier juicy glazed chicken.
Spicy: Sprinkle ¼ tsp red pepper flakes for a kick in these flavorful baked thighs.
Herb Swap: Use rosemary or Italian seasoning for aromatic tasty chicken thighs.
Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 4–5 hours for tender juicy glazed chicken, inspired by LaylaCooks’ Chicken Roll Ups.
Breasts: Use 4 boneless chicken breasts and bake for 25–30 minutes for lighter flavorful baked thighs.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with LaylaCooks’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad for a fresh side.
Serve with LaylaCooks’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for a refreshing drink.
Enjoy with LaylaCooks’ The Best Peach Sorbet for a sweet finish.

Storage

I store these tasty chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For freezing, I wrap them individually in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. I reheat in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals for fresh juicy glazed chicken.

Serving Tips

Presentation: Arrange flavorful baked thighs on a platter with parsley and pan juices.
Garnish: Sprinkle with extra parsley or a pinch of paprika for tasty chicken thighs.
Pairing: Serve with LaylaCooks’ Cucumber Mint Agua Fresca or mashed potatoes.
Portion Size: 2 thighs per person for a hearty meal.
Occasions: Great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.

FAQs About Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

Here are answers to common questions about this dish:

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prep the chicken and glaze, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze cooked thighs for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I use boneless thighs?
Yes, reduce baking time to 25–30 minutes for juicy glazed chicken.

Is this dish spicy?
No, but add red pepper flakes for heat in these tasty chicken thighs.

Can I use chicken breasts?
Yes, use 4 breasts and bake for 25–30 minutes for flavorful baked thighs.

More Chicken Recipes

Conclusion

Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs are a sweet, savory, and easy dinner that’s perfect for any occasion. These juicy glazed chicken thighs, with their caramelized glaze and tender meat, make weeknights or gatherings a breeze. Bake these tasty chicken thighs and enjoy the comfort of flavorful baked thighs!

Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

Garlic-Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs are a sweet, savory, and easy dinner that’s perfect for any occasion. These juicy glazed chicken thighs, with their caramelized glaze and tender meat, make weeknights or gatherings a breeze.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 35

Total Time 45

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

Base:

8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
½ cup 100g packed brown sugar
6 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp 30ml olive oil
1 tsp dried thyme optional
Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

1 tbsp 15ml honey
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp rosemary or Italian seasoning
1 tbsp 15ml soy sauce