Maple Chicken (with Dijon Mustard)

Maple Chicken with Dijon Mustard is a delightful dish that combines the natural sweetness of maple syrup with the tangy sharpness of Dijon mustard, creating a deliciously balanced glaze for the chicken. The chicken is pan-seared to a golden, crispy exterior, while the glaze caramelizes to a beautiful, sticky finish. The maple syrup brings sweetness, while the Dijon mustard adds a punch of flavor that perfectly complements the savory chicken.

I first made this dish when I was craving something with a touch of sweetness but still savory, and it quickly became a favorite. The maple and Dijon sauce adds an amazing depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make while still feeling elegant—it’s a simple glaze that turns everyday chicken into something special. This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad for a complete and satisfying meal. The balance of sweet and tangy is sure to impress!

Perfect for:

Family dinners
Dinner parties
Special occasions
Weeknight meals
Maple and mustard lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Maple Chicken (with Dijon Mustard) will become your go-to dinner:

Perfect Sweet and Savory Balance: The combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard creates a rich and flavorful sauce.
Easy to Make: A simple marinade and quick cooking method make this dish a hassle-free choice.
Tender Chicken: The marinade ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender with every bite.
Flavors that Pop: The tanginess of the mustard pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Versatile Side Pairing: This dish can be served with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes.
Quick Prep Time: With minimal preparation, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
Impressive Presentation: The rich golden brown color of the chicken makes it an impressive dish to serve guests.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra to enjoy throughout the week as part of a healthy lunch or dinner.
Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, this dish is satisfying and nutritious.
Kid-Friendly: The subtle sweetness makes it a hit with kids, while the mustard adds just the right amount of sophistication for adults.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 36g, Carbs: 14g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

For the Maple Dijon Marinade:

¼ cup maple syrup
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

The Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

For Garnish:

Fresh thyme or parsley (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
Dijon Mustard: Provides a tangy and sharp contrast to the maple syrup, creating a unique flavor combination.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity.
Olive Oil: Used for both the marinade and searing to achieve a golden, crispy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Maple Dijon Marinade:

Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.

Cook the Chicken:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Bake the Chicken: Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Serve:

Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Maple Chicken (with Dijon Mustard):

With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted carrots, brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a complete meal.
On a Bed of Greens: Serve on a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
With Rice or Quinoa: Pair with fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce.
With Mashed Potatoes: The rich sauce is perfect for spooning over creamy mashed potatoes.
On a Sandwich: Slice and serve on a sandwich with arugula, avocado, and a drizzle of extra mustard sauce.
With Steamed Asparagus: The crisp, tender asparagus pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy chicken.
For Meal Prep: Make a batch and store it in the fridge for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.
With Grilled Corn: A side of grilled corn adds a smoky flavor that complements the maple chicken.
With Crispy Potatoes: Roasted or crispy potatoes are a satisfying and delicious accompaniment.
For a Light Dinner: Pair with a light vegetable stir-fry for a low-calorie meal.

Additional Tips

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure a golden, crispy exterior.
Check Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup to the marinade.
Let Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices and ensure tenderness.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Maple Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Garlic Maple Chicken: Increase the amount of garlic for a more robust flavor.
Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Thighs: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a more flavorful version.
Herbed Maple Chicken: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the marinade for extra herby notes.
Citrus Maple Chicken: Add lemon zest or orange juice to the marinade for a bright, citrusy twist.
Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.

Special Equipment

Oven-Safe Skillet: For both searing and baking the chicken in one pan.
Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken for perfect doneness.
Whisk: For making the marinade.
Resealable Plastic Bag: For marinating the chicken easily.

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe, offering a juicier option.
How long does the marinade need to sit?
Ideally, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, the cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make this without Dijon mustard?
You can substitute with yellow mustard or honey mustard, though the flavor will be slightly different.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain the chicken’s moisture.
Can I use maple syrup substitutes?
Yes, honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute for maple syrup.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
How do I prevent the chicken from being dry?
Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Use a thermometer to check when it reaches 165°F.
Can I use other types of syrup?
You can experiment with other syrups like agave or brown rice syrup, but maple syrup gives the best flavor.
What can I serve with leftovers?
Serve leftover chicken in wraps, salads, or on a grain bowl for a delicious lunch.

Conclusion

Maple Chicken with Dijon Mustard is a beautifully balanced dish that combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the tanginess of Dijon mustard to create a rich, flavorful glaze for the chicken. The chicken is typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs, then cooked until golden and tender. The maple-Dijon glaze is made by mixing pure maple syrup with Dijon mustard, garlic, and a little bit of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity. This sauce is brushed onto the chicken while it cooks, caramelizing into a slightly sweet, slightly tangy coating that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.

The result is a deliciously sticky, flavorful chicken that’s sweet without being overpowering, with just the right amount of tang from the mustard. You can serve this dish with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad, to create a well-rounded meal.

I can’t wait to see how your Maple Chicken with Dijon Mustard turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!