If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with warmth, sweetness, and just the right touch of tang, you have to try this Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe. It’s incredibly simple but delivers on flavor in a way that feels like you’ve been handed a little bit of comfort and elegance all in one plate. The combination of tender chicken breasts with a luscious maple syrup glaze warmed by garlic and ginger creates a perfect balance that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking a quick weekday dinner or impressing guests, this Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe is a reliable and delicious go-to that feels like a little celebration every time you make it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Even though this recipe shines in its flavorful finish, the ingredients are straightforward and accessible, each playing a crucial role in the texture and taste. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh elements, you’ll have all you need to whip up this satisfying meal in no time.
- 16 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender base of this dish, slicing them thin helps them cook evenly and soak up all the glorious glaze.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural chicken flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the maple syrup’s sweetness perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Used for frying and flavor, bringing a subtle fruitiness and helping to create that irresistible golden crust.
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup: The star ingredient creating that signature sweet, rich, and slightly smoky glaze essential to this recipe.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Key for thickening the glaze just right, so it clings beautifully to the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Injects bright acidity, cutting through the sweetness and adding freshness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a punch of fragrant savoriness that rounds out the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a warm, subtle spice that complements the maple glaze and garlic.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps to loosen the glaze ingredients and create the perfect consistency.
How to Make Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and black pepper—this simple step ensures every bite is well-seasoned beneath that sweet glaze. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken until each side turns a gorgeous golden brown and the inside reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This careful cooking seals in moisture and creates the perfect foundation for the glaze. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest briefly while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Maple Glaze
Using the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to pick up all those flavorful browned bits left from cooking the chicken. Add in maple syrup, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground ginger, cornstarch, and water. Whisk vigorously to dissolve the cornstarch and combine all flavors. As you cook this mixture on medium heat, you’ll notice it thickening and becoming glossy—the hallmark of a perfect glaze that will beautifully coat your chicken.
Step 3: Glaze the Chicken and Finish Cooking
Return your cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them back into the luscious maple glaze. Toss and turn the chicken gently, allowing each piece to soak up that glossy, flavorful coating. This final step not only infuses additional flavor but also ensures every bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Once everything is heated through and well-coated, you’re ready to serve.
How to Serve Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the visual appeal and textural contrast, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions on top. These bright green touches add a fresh aroma and a slight crunch, elevating the dish’s presentation effortlessly. A light dusting of toasted sesame seeds can also add a subtle nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the glaze’s sweet warmth.
Side Dishes
Maple Glazed Chicken pairs beautifully with simple, wholesome sides. Consider serving it alongside steamed jasmine rice or fluffy mashed potatoes, which soak up the extra glaze like a charm. For a lighter option, roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans add a crisp, earthy balance to the meal. The idea is to have sides that complement rather than compete with the star flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, slice the glazed chicken into medallions and fan them over a bed of creamy polenta or quinoa salad. Drizzle extra glaze artistically over the plate to create inviting streaks of flavor. Alternatively, serve the chicken atop a vibrant salad of mixed greens, roasted nuts, and dried cranberries to echo the glaze’s sweet and savory theme in a fresh format that’s perfect for warmer days.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which might be tough since this dish disappears fast), store your maple glazed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy quick lunches or a relaxed dinner the next day without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken with glaze in a freezer-safe container. Freezing locks in all those wonderful flavors but keep in mind the texture might change slightly upon thawing. To reheat, it’s best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator first to preserve moisture and taste.
Reheating
Gently reheat your maple glazed chicken in a skillet over low heat, allowing it to warm evenly while preventing the glaze from burning. Adding a splash of water can help loosen the sauce and keep the chicken moist and tender. Avoid the microwave if possible for best texture and flavor retention.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken for this Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great for quick cooking and glazing, chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative if you prefer juicier meat. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s cooked through.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup in the glaze?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, honey makes the closest substitute with a similar sweetness and viscosity. Just keep in mind that honey has a distinct flavor that will slightly alter the profile of the glaze.
How can I make the glaze thicker?
If your glaze isn’t thickening as much as you’d like, add a little more cornstarch mixed with water and cook for another minute or two, whisking continuously. Be cautious not to add too much at once, so the glaze doesn’t become overly thick or gloopy.
Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian style?
While this Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe is designed for poultry lovers, you can experiment by substituting the chicken with firm tofu or seitan. Adjust cooking times accordingly, and the glaze will provide the same wonderful sweet-savory punch.
What’s the best way to check if the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest and most reliable method is using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Otherwise, you can cut into the thickest part to check that the juices run clear and the meat is opaque.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe brings together simplicity and depth of flavor in a way that feels both approachable and special. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making again and again, whether for a busy weeknight or a small gathering. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort meal that’s both sweet and savory, with a touch of homemade magic in every bite.
Print
Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Maple Glazed Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a sweet and tangy maple syrup glaze infused with garlic, ginger, and lemon juice. Quick to prepare and cooked on the stovetop, this dish is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes.
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: Sprinkle the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until they develop a golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Maple Glaze: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, cornstarch, minced garlic, ground ginger, and water. Whisk continuously to dissolve the cornstarch and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, forming a smooth glaze.
- Glaze the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it thoroughly with the maple glaze, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve Immediately: Plate the glazed chicken hot for best taste and enjoy your delicious maple glazed chicken.
Notes
- For best results, slice chicken breasts evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup according to your preference.
- Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the glaze to avoid lumps.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
