Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden-brown finish.
- Season the Chicken: Lightly pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. This not only adds flavor but also helps to get a good sear on the chicken.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they get a nice golden crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. This step is crucial for locking in the juices and adding a depth of flavor to the chicken.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Combine the Glaze Ingredients: Add the brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine and dissolve the brown sugar into a smooth glaze.
- Simmer: Allow the glaze to simmer for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This concentrates the flavors and ensures the glaze will stick to the chicken, creating a deliciously sticky coating.
Step 3: Bake
- Coat the Chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the glaze over them to ensure they are well coated.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and the glaze has caramelized. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, sprinkle the chicken with chopped fresh parsley and arrange lemon slices around the skillet for a bright, fresh contrast to the sweet and savory glaze.
Presentation Tips
- Serve the Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken on a warm platter to keep it inviting.
- Accompany it with sides that complement its richness, such as roasted vegetables, a light salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Provide extra glaze on the side for those who enjoy a more intense flavor.
By following these detailed steps, you’ll not only create a mouthwatering dish but also an experience that invites your guests to take their time, enjoy each bite, and perhaps linger a little longer at your table. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!