This grilled chicken is coated in a tasty sweet garlic brown sugar sauce that makes each bite irresistible. It’s sticky, sweet, and has just the right amount of garlic kick!
Whenever I make this dish, my family rushes to the table. It’s great for summer BBQs or a cozy dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—just grill and glaze! Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, use boneless thighs for a juicier option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punchy flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder; about 1 teaspoon should do the trick.
Brown Sugar: It gives that nice sweetness and sticky texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap it for coconut sugar or honey, but keep in mind honey will change the sauce’s consistency.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. It offers a similar flavor without gluten.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds acidity to balance the sweetness. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice work well too!
How Do I Get a Perfectly Glazed Chicken?
To achieve that beautiful sticky glaze on your chicken, it’s all about timing and technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by marinating your chicken in half of the sauce. This deepens the flavor.
- Once on the grill, cook the chicken until it’s nearly done (about 6-7 minutes per side).
- When the chicken is close to 165°F (75°C), brush on the reserved sauce. Do this a few times in the last few minutes of cooking to build up that glaze.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling, allowing the juices to redistribute!
This technique not only locks in flavor but gives your chicken a delicious, glossy finish that makes it look as good as it tastes. Happy grilling!
Grilled Chicken with Sweet Garlic Brown Sugar Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Chopped green onions
Time Needed:
This delightful grilled chicken takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for best results) for marinating. Cooking on the grill will take approximately 15 minutes. So, total, expect about 55 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the sugar is mostly dissolved and everything is mixed nicely.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour half of the sweet garlic sauce over the chicken to coat. Reserve the other half for later glazing. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or better yet, 1-2 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F or 190°C). To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates before you place the chicken on it.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and place it on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip it over and grill for another 6-7 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
5. Glaze the Chicken:
In the last few minutes of grilling, take the reserved sauce and brush it over the chicken multiple times. This will create a wonderful sticky glaze that enhances the flavor.
6. Rest the Chicken:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if you’d like for a nice touch. Serve the chicken hot and enjoy the burst of sweet garlic flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful grilled chicken with a sticky, sweet garlic brown sugar glaze!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier and more flavorful result. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to reach 165°F (75°C).
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help keep it moist!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor significantly! Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity in the marinade can make the chicken a bit mushy.
Can I Make this Recipe on a Stovetop Grill Pan?
Definitely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan works great too. Just make sure to follow the same cooking times and check for the internal temperature. Enjoy the same delicious results indoors!
