If you’re looking for a dish that combines sweet, savory, and a hint of zing in the simplest way possible, the Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts drenched in a luscious glaze made from real maple syrup, garlic, and a touch of ginger—creating a flavor profile that’s comforting yet exciting. Whether you’re cooking weeknight dinner or impressing friends on the weekend, this recipe delivers incredible taste with minimal fuss. Let me take you through everything you need to make this delightful meal at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, each playing a key role in bringing together the rich flavors and perfect texture of the Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe. From the natural sweetness of maple syrup to the fresh zing of lemon juice, every item adds its own magic to the dish.
- 16 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Using chicken breasts sliced in half lengthwise ensures even cooking and a tender bite.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering the glaze.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat to balance the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Provides a beautiful golden sear and helps create a smooth glaze.
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup: The star ingredient that infuses the dish with its signature sweet and woody flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Perfect for thickening the glaze so it clings beautifully to the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brings brightness and cuts through the sweetness for a balanced taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds savory depth and aromatic warmth to the glaze.
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger: A subtle hint of spice complementing the maple syrup perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps dissolve the cornstarch and achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
How to Make Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper lightly. This simple seasoning step is key to highlighting the tenderness of the chicken once cooked. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering, then add the chicken. Cook each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Removing the chicken at the right moment keeps it juicy without drying it out. Set the cooked chicken aside while you work on the glaze.
Step 2: Create the Maple Glaze
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. To this, whisk in the maple syrup, lemon juice, cornstarch, minced garlic, ground ginger, and water. The trick here is to whisk continuously until the cornstarch fully dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly. This step transforms the glaze into that irresistibly sticky sauce that will hug every piece of chicken.
Step 3: Glaze and Finish Cooking
Return the golden chicken breasts to the skillet, tossing them gently in the thickened maple glaze. Make sure every piece is completely coated in that shiny, flavorful sauce. Let the chicken warm through for a minute or two to allow the flavors to meld. Then, it’s ready to serve—simple, speedy, and absolutely delicious.
How to Serve Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the maple glaze beautifully. For a little crunch and texture contrast, toasted sesame seeds work wonderfully as well.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs brilliantly with light, fresh sides. Think fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up every bit of the glaze. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans bring in vibrant colors and balance the dish with a healthy crunch. A crisp side salad with a citrus vinaigrette also offers a refreshing counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, slice the glazed chicken and fan the pieces on a warm platter drizzled with extra glaze. Layer this over a bed of mashed sweet potatoes or creamy polenta for an elegant twist. Or, serve the chicken on skewers as finger-friendly bites for a more casual, fun presentation. The bright, glossy glaze will steal the show every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe keeps really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool before sealing the container to maintain the glaze’s sticky texture and avoid condensation buildup.
Freezing
If you want to save the chicken for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Place the glazed chicken pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating portions with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Frozen chicken will maintain best quality when used within 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, spooning some of the reserved glaze or a splash of water over the top to keep it moist. Microwaving works too, but be careful not to overheat, which can toughen the chicken. Reheating slowly preserves that luscious finish you fell in love with initially.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and stay juicy exceptionally well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through, as thighs tend to be thicker and more forgiving.
Is pure maple syrup necessary, or can I use pancake syrup?
For the best depth of flavor, pure maple syrup is recommended because it has a natural, complex sweetness that pancake syrup doesn’t quite match. That said, if you have only pancake syrup, it will work in a pinch—just be mindful that it might make the glaze taste a bit sweeter and less nuanced.
Can I make the maple glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply warm it gently on the stove and toss with freshly cooked chicken for the best texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have cornstarch for thickening?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or even flour as a substitute. Just remember that flour may take a little longer to thicken and might slightly change the glaze’s clarity and texture.
How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?
The best way to ensure perfectly cooked chicken is to use a meat thermometer. When the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C), your chicken is safe to eat and remains tender and juicy. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part and check that the juices run clear without any pink.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that’s both simple and bursting with flavor, and this Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe fits that bill perfectly. I hope you enjoy making it as much as you enjoy eating it! It’s a go-to recipe that’s as quick as it is impressive, perfect for any occasion where you want a little extra delight on your plate. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to cook chicken.
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Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Maple Glazed Chicken recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with tender chicken breasts coated in a sticky, flavorful maple syrup glaze. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an easy and impressive dish that can be prepared on the stovetop, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 16 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts), sliced in half lengthwise
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)
Maple Glaze
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Maple Glaze: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground ginger, and water. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to combine.
- Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle cornstarch into the skillet while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce slightly thickens and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Glaze the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and toss them gently in the warm maple glaze until fully coated and heated through.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the glazed chicken to plates and serve while hot, pairing with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- For best results, slice the chicken breasts evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Use real pure maple syrup for authentic flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, before serving.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your cornstarch is pure and uncontaminated.
- You can garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme for an herbal touch.
- Leftover glazed chicken can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
