Maple Glazed Chicken: 1 Amazing Sweet Dinner

Maple glazed chicken has a way of making even the busiest weeknights feel special. I remember the first time I tried making it myself, hoping to capture that perfect balance of sweet and savory I’d enjoyed at a local diner. The aroma of the maple syrup caramelizing with the chicken and sweet potatoes filled my kitchen, and honestly, it was even better than I imagined. This oven baked maple glazed chicken is so incredibly juicy, with tender chicken and perfectly roasted sweet potatoes that just melt in your mouth. It’s truly a delightful sweet maple chicken dish that I know you’ll love. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Maple Glazed Chicken

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s not just delicious, but it’s also incredibly practical. Here’s why it’s going to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Effortless Preparation: This is an easy maple glazed chicken recipe that requires minimal fuss.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together on a single baking sheet, meaning less cleanup.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Lean chicken and nutrient-rich sweet potatoes make this a guilt-free meal.
• Kid-Approved Flavor: The sweet and savory glaze is a hit with all ages.
• Quick Dinner Solution: It’s perfect for a speedy maple chicken dinner when you’re short on time.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different vegetables or spices for endless flavor combinations.
• Incredible Aroma: Your kitchen will smell amazing as it bakes!

Ingredients for Your Perfect Maple Glazed Chicken

Gather these simple ingredients for a fantastic maple chicken dinner. You’ll find that the quality of your ingredients really shines through in this dish, especially the maple syrup and fresh garlic.

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – I often use chicken thighs because they stay extra juicy, but breasts work wonderfully too for a leaner option.
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed – About 1-inch cubes are perfect for even cooking.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup – This is the star of our sweet glaze! Make sure it’s pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds that essential savory depth and umami to the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Divided for tossing the sweet potatoes and for the glaze.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – This gives the glaze a little tang and helps emulsify it.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aromatic punch.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.

How to Make Maple Glazed Chicken

Let’s get this delicious maple chicken dinner on the table! Making this baked maple glazed chicken is surprisingly straightforward, and the results are always impressive. You’ll be amazed at how easily these simple steps come together.

1. Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and gets that lovely caramelization.
2. Step 2: Grab a baking sheet and toss your cubed sweet potato with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer so they roast nicely.
3. Step 3: Pop the sweet potatoes into the preheated oven and let them bake for about 15 minutes. You want them to start softening up.
4. Step 4: While those sweet potatoes are getting a head start, it’s time to whip up the magic – the maple glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup maple syrup, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and your minced garlic. Give it a good whisk until it’s all combined and looks glossy.
5. Step 5: Now, season your chicken pieces. Whether you’re using maple chicken breast or thighs, a little salt and pepper goes a long way to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor before it meets that glorious glaze.
6. Step 6: Carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces to the baking sheet alongside the partially baked sweet potatoes. Try to give everything a little breathing room for the best roasting. This is a key part of how to make maple glazed chicken that tastes amazing.
7. Step 7: Generously pour that beautiful maple glaze mixture evenly over both the chicken and the sweet potatoes. Make sure every piece gets a good coating. You’ll start to smell the sweet, savory aroma already!
8. Step 8: Place the baking sheet back into the oven. Bake for another 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the glaze to be beautifully caramelized and slightly sticky.
9. Step 9: Once everything is perfectly cooked and the glaze is bubbling, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving this delightful baked maple glazed chicken hot.

Pro Tips for the Best Maple Glazed Chicken

I’ve made this maple chicken dinner more times than I can count, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it absolutely perfect every time. Follow these simple tips for a truly exceptional meal.

• Always use pure maple syrup for the best, richest flavor. Avoid pancake syrups, as they won’t provide the same depth.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give the chicken and sweet potatoes space to roast, not steam, for that beautiful caramelization.
• For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a hint of heat.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.

What’s the secret to perfect maple glazed chicken?

The key to a perfect simple maple chicken glaze lies in the balance of sweet and savory. Whisking together pure maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon, and garlic creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken and sweet potatoes without burning. For more on the science of caramelization, you can check out The Science of Cooking.

Can I make maple glazed chicken ahead of time?

Yes! For meal prep, you can prepare the maple glaze and chop the sweet potatoes a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can also season the chicken ahead of time. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights, similar to how some people prepare other dishes in advance.

How do I avoid common mistakes with maple glazed chicken?

A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness. Ensure you’re using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, avoid using imitation maple syrup, as it won’t yield the same delicious results. Understanding proper cooking temperatures is crucial for many recipes, including different types of poultry.

Best Ways to Serve Maple Glazed Chicken

This versatile maple chicken dinner is fantastic on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. The sweet and savory notes of the chicken and glaze make it a perfect centerpiece for a balanced meal.

For a complete and comforting plate, I love serving it alongside a fluffy side of quinoa or brown rice to soak up any extra glaze. A simple side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli adds a lovely fresh, crisp contrast to the tender chicken and soft sweet potatoes. You can find great tips on roasting vegetables at Food Network.

If you’re looking for something a little heartier, consider serving it with a dollop of mashed cauliflower for a lighter take, or even some creamy polenta for a truly indulgent experience. It’s a meal that feels special enough for guests but is easy enough for a weeknight treat! For more ideas on weeknight meals, check out this guide.

Nutrition Facts for Maple Glazed Chicken

This maple glazed chicken recipe offers a delicious and balanced meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, based on the ingredients and quantities provided:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Maple Glazed Chicken

I know how tempting it is to finish every last bite, but if you find yourself with leftovers of this delicious maple glazed chicken, don’t worry about them going to waste! Proper storage ensures you can enjoy that sweet and savory goodness later.

First, let the chicken and sweet potatoes cool down completely at room temperature. Once cool, transfer them to an airtight container. This helps maintain the integrity of the maple chicken sauce and prevents any unwanted moisture loss or absorption. Stored this way in the refrigerator, your leftovers should stay fresh and tasty for about 3-4 days. For more on food storage, you can refer to general guidelines.

If you want to keep this delightful dish for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags. Properly frozen, your maple glazed chicken can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, the best method is to gently warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth, or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. This helps to rehydrate the chicken and keep the glaze from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maple Glazed Chicken

What exactly is maple glazed chicken?

Maple glazed chicken is a dish where chicken is coated in a sweet and savory glaze made primarily from maple syrup. This glaze caramelizes beautifully during cooking, creating a delicious, sticky coating that adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the chicken. It’s a popular dish because of its comforting sweetness and satisfying savory notes.

Why is maple glazed chicken sweet?

The sweetness in maple glazed chicken comes directly from the maple syrup, which is the star ingredient in the glaze. Pure maple syrup has a natural caramel-like sweetness that intensifies when heated and baked, creating that signature sticky, sweet coating. It’s balanced with savory ingredients like soy sauce to create a delightful sweet and savory profile.

Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe is written for chicken breasts or thighs, you can certainly experiment. Chicken tenders or even bone-in pieces can work, though cooking times may need adjustment. Just ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. For more on safe chicken temperatures, consult resources like the USDA.

How do I make the glaze less sticky?

If you find the glaze too sticky, you can sometimes achieve a slightly less intense caramelization by reducing the baking time slightly or by adding a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to the glaze mixture before baking. However, that sticky, caramelized coating is part of what makes this dish so delicious!

Variations of Maple Glazed Chicken You Can Try

This basic maple glazed chicken recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also a wonderful canvas for creativity! If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to different tastes, here are a few ideas that I’ve found really elevate the dish.

• Spicy Kick: For a delightful sweet and savory maple chicken with a bit of heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the glaze mixture. It creates a lovely sweet-and-spicy contrast.
• Brown Sugar Boost: Want an even richer, more caramelized glaze? Swap out 1 tablespoon of maple syrup for 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. This maple glazed chicken with brown sugar adds a wonderful depth of flavor and extra sticky goodness.
• Citrus Twist: Brighten up the flavor profile by adding the zest of half an orange or lemon to the glaze. A squeeze of juice can also add a lovely tang that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
• Sheet Pan Sausage: Instead of chicken, try using smoked sausage links, sliced. They pair wonderfully with the sweet potatoes and maple glaze for a different kind of hearty meal.

Maple Glazed Chicken: 1 Amazing Sweet Dinner

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This sweet maple-glazed chicken recipe is a simple and healthy meal. Juicy chicken and tender sweet potatoes are coated in a delicious maple glaze for a satisfying dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cubed sweet potato with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
3. Bake the sweet potatoes for 15 minutes.
4. While the potatoes bake, prepare the maple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
5. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
6. Add the chicken to the baking sheet with the sweet potatoes.
7. Pour the maple glaze evenly over the chicken and sweet potatoes.
8. Bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
9. Serve the maple-glazed chicken and sweet potatoes immediately.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
• You can use chicken thighs for a more tender result.
• This dish pairs well with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

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