Elevate your dinner game with these irresistible Brown Sugar Chicken Chops! Perfectly seasoned with a blend of sweet brown sugar and aromatic spices, these chicken chops are seared to golden perfection and finished in a luscious sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful: A perfect balance of sweetness from brown sugar and savory spices.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it great for weeknights.
- Versatile: Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 4 (boneless, skinless) or Chicken Thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- Brown Sugar: 1/3 cup, packed
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried Thyme: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tbsp (optional, for tanginess)
How to Make Brown Sugar Chicken Chops
1. Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
2. Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Brown Sugar Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add butter to the skillet and let it melt.
- Stir in any leftover brown sugar seasoning mixture.
- Pour in the chicken broth (and apple cider vinegar, if using) and whisk to combine.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Finish Cooking
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve
- Spoon the rich brown sugar sauce over the chicken before serving.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Pro Tips for Success
- Bone-in Chicken: Opt for bone-in chicken for extra flavor and juiciness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme for a touch of freshness and color.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish combines protein-rich chicken with a flavorful sauce that’s lower in sodium compared to store-bought alternatives. Pair it with nutrient-dense sides like steamed vegetables or whole grains for a balanced meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes! This recipe works well with drumsticks or bone-in thighs for even more flavor. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook the chicken and sauce, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet over low heat.
3. What can I use as a substitute for apple cider vinegar?
White wine vinegar or lemon juice works well as an alternative.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Sugar Chicken Chops bring together the perfect mix of sweetness and savory flavor, making them a crowd-pleasing dinner option. Quick to prepare and endlessly versatile, this recipe is sure to become a regular on your table.
Try it tonight, and don’t forget to share your creations on social media! 🍯🍗✨