Name: Irresistibly Easy Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with canola or vegetable oil); 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Halves (Thinly sliced yields best results); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust quantity to suit palate); 1 teaspoon Salt (Regular or kosher salt); 1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (Can swap with chicken stock); 1/2 cup Pure Maple Syrup (Honey or agave syrup can substitute); 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme (Divided, use dried if fresh isn't available); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh preferred, garlic powder can work); 2 tablespoons Cider Vinegar (Red or white wine vinegar can substitute); 2 tablespoons Stone-Ground Mustard (Dijon mustard can also work)

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, I find myself craving comforting, home-cooked meals that warm both the heart and the kitchen. The moment I first combined sweet maple syrup with pungent mustard, a culinary adventure unfolded right in front of me. This Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of fall flavors that brings a delightful balance of sweetness and zing to your table.

Imagine the fragrant aroma wafting through your home as the chicken caramelizes in a single skillet, ready to whisk away the monotony of fast food meals. It's quick enough for a busy weeknight yet elegant enough to impress your family or guests. With every tender bite, you’ll savor the glossy sauce that envelops the juicy chicken, making even the greyest days feel special. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that captures the essence of autumn and turns your dinner into a deliciously memorable occasion.

Why is Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This dish comes together effortlessly in one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze after your meal.
Versatile Flavors: The delightful blend of sweet maple and tangy mustard creates a unique taste experience that complements any palate.
Quick Cooking: Perfectly engineered for busy evenings, the chicken cooks swiftly, ready to serve in just 30 minutes!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to impress.
Comforting Heartiness: It wraps you in warm, cozy flavors that capture the heart of fall, making every bite memorable.
For more delightful chicken dishes, be sure to check out our selection of easy weeknight recipes!

Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Ingredients

• Dive into the deliciousness with these essential ingredients!

For the Chicken

Olive Oil – Adds fat for cooking and flavor; substitute with canola or vegetable oil if needed.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Halves – The main protein ensuring quick cooking; thinly sliced breasts will yield the best results.
Black Pepper – Provides seasoning and enhances flavor; adjust the quantity to suit your palate.
Salt – Essential for flavor; you can use either regular salt or kosher salt.

For the Sauce

Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and depth to the sauce; feel free to swap with chicken stock.
Pure Maple Syrup – Sweetens and contributes a unique flavor profile; honey or agave syrup can serve as a substitute for different sweetness.
Fresh Thyme (divided) – An herb that adds aromatic flavor; dried thyme can be used if fresh isn't available— just reduce the amount.
Garlic – Provides the savory backbone to the dish; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Cider Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance the flavors; red or white wine vinegar can substitute nicely.
Stone-Ground Mustard – Offers a tangy flavor and texture; Dijon mustard can work if that's what you have on hand.

Explore the magic of these ingredients and get ready to create your irresistible Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken!

How to Make Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures your chicken bakes evenly and beautifully.
Heat a large, oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat, adding olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers lightly, signaling it’s ready for the chicken.
Season chicken breast halves with salt and black pepper. Place them in the skillet, browning each side for 2 minutes until they have a lovely golden color.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Combine chicken broth, maple syrup, half of the chopped thyme, and minced garlic in the same skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, scraping any tasty bits from the bottom.
Stir in cider vinegar and stone-ground mustard, letting it cook for 1 minute to meld the flavors together.
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the delightful sauce over the top. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken from the skillet once it’s done. Return the skillet to the heat and reduce the sauce for 2 minutes, stirring continuously until it thickens to a syrupy consistency.
Serve the chicken drizzled with the thickened sauce and sprinkle with the remaining thyme for a beautiful presentation.

Optional: Pair with a side of rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken?

Elevate your meal even further by pairing with perfect accompaniments that enhance the sweet and tangy flavors of your chicken.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture balances the sauce beautifully, providing a comforting base for each bite.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and nutty, these green gems add crunch and vibrant color to your plate, making it visually appealing.
Garlic Noodles: Easy to prepare and deliciously savory, they soak up any of the extra maple mustard sauce, ensuring you don’t miss a drop!
Crisp Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken, keeping the meal light.
Wild Rice Pilaf: With its nutty flavor and chewy texture, it perfectly complements the soft chicken while adding a rustic touch.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots resonate well with the dish’s flavors, bringing a hint of natural sweetness to your meal.
Chardonnay: A crisp white wine enhances the dish’s zesty qualities while its acidity cuts through the richness, making for a refined pairing.
Apple Crisp: Finish off with this warm, sweet dessert that reminds you of autumn and can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful conclusion!

Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!

Herb Swap: Use rosemary instead of thyme for a fragrant, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
Pork Alternative: Swap chicken for pork chops to create a savory variation packed with delicious flavors.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce for a tantalizing heat that elevates the dish.
Sweet & Savory: Incorporate chopped apples or pears into the skillet while cooking for a delightful touch of fruity sweetness.
Nutty Finish: Sprinkle with toasted pecans or walnuts before serving for a delightful crunch and added richness.
Honey-Mustard Mix: Replace some maple syrup with honey for a different sweet profile and a lovely caramelization during cooking.
Citrus Zest: Add a splash of orange juice or grated lemon zest for a bright, zesty twist that cuts through the richness.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, allowing for the sauce to soak in for a satisfying meat-free meal.

Let your culinary imagination soar and enjoy every delectable bite!

Storage Tips for Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This will keep your Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken fresh and ready to reheat later.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the glazed chicken in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Serving Suggestions: Revive leftovers by serving with fresh sides like roasted vegetables to enhance the flavors of your Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken.

Make Ahead Options

These Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and brown the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and making your cooking process quicker. Simply refrigerate the seasoned chicken in an airtight container. The sauce components—broth, maple syrup, garlic, cider vinegar, and mustard—can be combined and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, just bring the sauce to a boil, return the chicken to the skillet, and bake as instructed. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal on busy nights with minimal effort and just as much flavor!

Expert Tips for Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken

Choose Thin Cuts: Using thinly sliced chicken breast halves ensures even cooking and prevents any raw bits. Full-sized breasts can be tricky!
Watch the Sauce: Careful monitoring while reducing the sauce is essential. Stay close to prevent it from burning and losing that delicious caramelized flavor.
Flavor Balancing: If the sauce tastes too sweet, add a dash more cider vinegar or mustard to achieve the perfect balance.
Use Low-Sodium Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to manage the saltiness, enhancing flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Garnish Wisely: Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for added color and flavor contrast. Your Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken will shine!

Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for boneless, skinless pieces that are free of dark spots or discoloration. Fresh, plump chicken will yield the juiciest results, while thinner slices will cook evenly and quickly. If you have the option, organic chicken is great, but any quality chicken will work well in this dish.

How should I store leftovers of Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken?
After dinner, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken?
Certainly! For longer storage, freeze the glazed chicken in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to label your bag with the date so you’ll know exactly when to enjoy it again. When you're ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

What should I do if the sauce is too thin after cooking?
If you find your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, simply return the skillet to medium heat after removing the chicken. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously until it reaches your desired syrupy consistency. This will help concentrate the flavors and create that delicious glaze. A little patience goes a long way here!

Is Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! However, if someone has a mustard allergy, you could substitute the stone-ground mustard with a mustard-free alternative like tahini or a sweet glaze to maintain the flavor profile. Furthermore, if you're concerned about sodium intake, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and seasoning. Always double-check your ingredient labels for additional allergens.

Can I use other meats besides chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can substitute boneless pork chops for a delicious variation that pairs nicely with the sweet maple and tangy mustard sauce. Just adjust the cooking time to about 15 minutes to ensure the pork is thoroughly cooked. Enjoy experimenting!