Description
Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken Thighs feature tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs coated in a flavorful blend of brown sugar and spices, then cooked to perfection in a skillet for a deliciously sticky and spicy glaze. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that balances a touch of sweetness with bold heat.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Glaze and Seasoning
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper (10-15 cranks from a pepper mill)
Main
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (4-5 pieces)
Instructions
- Prepare the spice mix: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create the sweet and spicy glaze seasoning.
- Season the chicken: Place the chicken thighs on a cutting board and pat them dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the prepared brown sugar mixture generously over both sides of each chicken thigh, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Heat the skillet and cook: Heat a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add the olive oil and swirl the pan to coat the bottom evenly. Place the coated chicken thighs in the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the brown sugar glaze forms a deep brown, sticky coating.
- Serve hot: Once cooked and glazed, transfer the chicken thighs to a serving plate and serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps the glaze to adhere better and enhances browning.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to control the heat level according to your preference.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of chicken thighs and stove heat, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a less sweet version, reduce brown sugar to 2 tablespoons.
- This recipe is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 318 kcal
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 483 mg
- Fat: 18.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12.6 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Protein: 28.7 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
