Description
This Brown Sugar Italian Baked Chicken recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Coated in a simple mixture of brown sugar and dry Italian dressing seasoning, the chicken bakes to a perfect, lightly caramelized glaze. It’s an easy dish perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining, using pantry staples with no marinating required.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 (approx. 0.7-oz) packet dry Italian dressing seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking dish with foil or spray with cooking spray.
- If using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness between plastic wrap or wax paper.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and dry Italian seasoning mix until well mixed.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Coat both sides of each chicken piece with the sugar-seasoning mixture.
- Place chicken in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle any remaining mixture over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For extra caramelization, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon pan juices over the chicken.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix for a smoky flavor.
- Mix in red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Honey or maple syrup can be used instead of brown sugar, brushed on lightly.
- Layer sliced onions or cherry tomatoes under the chicken for added flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power or covered in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken
- Calories: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A
Keywords: Brown Sugar Italian Baked Chicken, Italian Baked Chicken with Brown Sugar, Brown Sugar Glazed Italian Chicken, Easy Brown Sugar Italian Baked Chicken Recipe, Sweet Italian Baked Chicken Recipe