Frango com Açúcar
Sugar Chicken
I lived in Brazil for five years. It was hard being away from home in the U.S., and one of my favorite things to do was to host friends and share recipes that I grew up with. So when I came back to the U.S., it was only natural to bring a few recipes home with me.
This was one of our go-tos, and remains so. I even shared this recipe with some dear friends, and when they moved away, I laminated a copy as part of a gift, and they call every time they make it.
I know sugar and chicken sounds strange together, but the meat is not left sweet; the browned sugar adds a depth of flavor and colors the chicken.

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In a large pot, heat oil to shimmering, then add sugar.
Stir with a wooden spoon until melted and browned—do not burn!
Season chicken, then add to pan, coating in the oil-and-sugar mixture.
Add water until the chicken is ⅓-½ covered. It will release more water as you are cooking, but still keep an eye on it.
Cover with the lid, then lower heat to low-medium for a simmer until chicken is cooked through, usually 20-30 minutes, depending on the size/amount of your chicken.
Take off the heat, toss in crushed red pepper and sliced green onions to taste.
Serving ideas: Plate with jasmine or your favorite rice, black beans simmered with fresh garlic and bay leaves, and a green salad.