Mustard Maple Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mustard Maple Chicken is a beautiful fusion of bold mustard tanginess and the natural sweetness of maple syrup, resulting in a flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully over the chicken. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that requires little hands-on time but delivers maximum flavor. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, making it a perfect fit for many occasions.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1/3 cup Dijon mustard

• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional for texture)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet with olive oil.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, whole grain mustard (if using), apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the mustard maple sauce over the chicken, making sure they are well coated.

4. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

5. During the last 5 minutes of baking, spoon some of the sauce from the pan over the chicken to baste it and enhance the glaze.

6. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy-sweet flavor.

• Herb infusion: Add fresh chopped rosemary or thyme into the sauce for a more aromatic flavor.

• Grilled version: Instead of baking, grill the chicken over medium heat, brushing with the mustard maple glaze as it cooks.

• Use thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for an even juicier and more flavorful version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Spoon some extra sauce over the chicken to keep it moist during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe and offer an even juicier result. Adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may cook slightly faster.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the mustard maple sauce ahead and marinate the chicken in it for a few hours or overnight for extra flavor, then bake when ready.

What kind of mustard is best for this recipe?

Dijon mustard gives the best tangy flavor, but you can mix in whole grain mustard for a little texture and a rustic touch.

Can I use pancake syrup instead of pure maple syrup?

It’s best to use pure maple syrup for this recipe as pancake syrup contains added sugars and artificial flavors that will alter the taste.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked just to 165°F (75°C).

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes, you can sear the chicken in a skillet over medium heat and then simmer it with the sauce until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.

Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Absolutely. Add vegetables like carrots, green beans, or potatoes to the pan for a complete one-dish meal. Toss them in a little olive oil and season lightly before baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure the mustard and any other packaged ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.

What sides go well with Mustard Maple Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh garden salad.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients. Use a larger baking dish to ensure the chicken cooks evenly.

Conclusion

Mustard Maple Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a tender, juicy chicken meal that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests. Versatile, satisfying, and utterly delicious, this recipe is sure to find a permanent place in your dinner rotation.