Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s both cozy and bursting with flavor, you’ve got to try my Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels special but is surprisingly easy to pull off. Sweet maple syrup and tangy mustard come together perfectly in a sticky glaze that coats juicy chicken breasts—trust me, it’s a fan-freaking-tastic combo you’ll find yourself making again and again.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Recipe come together in perfect harmony—the sweetness of pure maple syrup pairs beautifully with the sharpness of stone-ground mustard, while fresh thyme and garlic amp up the flavor. Here are the key items you’ll want to have on hand to make magic happen.

• Olive oil: I prefer extra virgin for richness and a slightly fruity note.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Using breasts keeps this lean but juicy—pounding them slightly can ensure even cooking.
• Black pepper and salt: Basic seasonings that bring out the natural flavors perfectly.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Helps build the sauce without overpowering sweetness.
• Pure maple syrup: The star of the show; 100% pure (not imitation) makes all the difference in flavor.
• Fresh thyme: Dividing it between cooking and garnishing adds a lovely herbal aroma.
• Garlic: Minced fresh for that punch of savoriness in the glaze.
• Cider vinegar: A little acidity balances the sweetness for that perfect tangy bite.
• Stone-ground mustard: Adds texture and depth, plus a mild spicy note that complements the syrup.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Recipe by tweaking flavors depending on what mood I’m in or what ingredients I have handy. You should definitely make it your own—feel free to swap ingredients or add a little flair.

• Variation: When I want a bit more heat, I add a pinch of cayenne or some crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze—it gives a fantastic kick that balances the sweetness.
• Variation: For a dairy twist, I sometimes serve the chicken over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt to mellow the tang.
• Variation: If you’re gluten-free, all ingredients here are naturally safe, so you don’t have to worry about hidden gluten—just be sure your mustard is labeled gluten-free.
• Variation: Swap fresh thyme for rosemary or tarragon for a slightly different herbaceous note; I find rosemary especially adds a piney warmth.

How to Make Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, then add the olive oil—this ensures a nice sear that locks in juices. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and place them in the hot pan. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until they’re beautifully browned. This part is essential because it not only adds flavor but helps the chicken stay moist in the oven. Once seared, remove the chicken and set it aside temporarily.

Step 2: Build the Maple Mustard Glaze in the Same Pan

With the chicken removed, pour in the chicken broth, maple syrup, half the fresh thyme, and minced garlic right into the skillet. Bring it to a boil while gently scraping the pan bottom—those browned bits add incredible flavor! Stir frequently for about 2 minutes so the ingredients meld. Then add the cider vinegar and stone-ground mustard. Stir for another minute to let the glaze thicken slightly and marry those tastes.

Step 3: Return the Chicken and Finish Baking

Place the chicken back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Slide the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Baking finishes the cooking gently, so the chicken stays tender and juicy while soaking up that luscious glaze.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce and Serve

Once the chicken comes out, transfer it to a serving plate and pour off the sauce into a small saucepan (or keep it in the skillet on the stove). Heat it over medium heat for a couple of minutes until it thickens to a syrupy consistency—this step really intensifies the glaze’s flavor. Pour this glossy sauce over your chicken, sprinkle with the remaining fresh thyme, and you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

I always finish this dish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme—not only does it add a hint of herbal brightness, but it makes the dish look so inviting. Sometimes, I toss on a little lemon zest if I’m feeling fancy, which adds a fresh zing that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted carrots for a cozy dinner. For lighter sides, I like serving it alongside steamed green beans or a crisp arugula salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette—those fresh greens help balance the richness of the glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve plated this dish over a bed of fluffy couscous tossed with toasted almonds and dried cranberries, which adds a festive touch and textural contrast. You could also serve it family-style on a wooden board with plenty of fresh herbs sprinkled over for a rustic, shareable vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to store leftover maple mustard glazed chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, where it keeps well for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate any leftover sauce so you can reheat and spoon it fresh for better texture and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes decently—just wrap the chicken breasts individually in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer bag with the sauce in a separate container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This helps keep the glaze silky and the chicken juicy rather than drying it out in the microwave.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen because it’s quick, flavorful, and always impresses around the dinner table. I love how easy it is to make, yet the flavors feel gourmet and comforting at the same time. If you’re craving something sweet, tangy, and downright satisfying, I truly recommend giving this recipe a try—it might just become your new favorite too!

Print