Brown Sugar Italian Chicken
Chicken thighs are coated in a sweet and savory brown sugar and Italian seasoning mix, then baked until tender and juicy.
Ingredients
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar 100g
- 1 packet dry Italian dressing mix (about 2 tablespoons) 0.7-ounce
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs, about 1 ½ pounds / 680g
- Cooking spray
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and the dry Italian dressing mix. Stir until they are well blended.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Place them in the bowl with the sugar mixture.
- Turn each chicken thigh to coat it completely on all sides with the seasoning rub.
- Arrange the coated chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle any remaining rub over the top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
- Let the chicken rest in the dish for 5 minutes. The juices will create a simple pan sauce.
- Serve the chicken warm, spooning some of the pan sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like.
Notes
Food Safety: Always cook poultry to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh for an accurate reading.
Baking Dish: Use a baking dish with sides, not a flat baking sheet. The chicken will release juices as it cooks, creating a sauce.
Broiling Option: For a slightly more caramelized top, you can place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after baking. Watch it very closely, as the sugar can burn quickly.