If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful chicken dinner, look no further than this Crispy Baked Maple Dijon Chicken with a Sweet and Tangy Glaze. This recipe combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the tanginess of Dijon mustard to create a deliciously balanced glaze that coats the chicken breasts, giving them a crispy, flavorful crust. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

With just a few pantry staples, this recipe will transform boneless, skinless chicken breasts into a tender and juicy dish with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The addition of garlic powder adds depth, while the maple syrup creates a caramelized exterior that’s sure to please your taste buds. Whether served with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to impress your family or guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Baked Maple Dijon Chicken is a fantastic blend of sweet and tangy flavors that pair wonderfully with chicken. The maple syrup creates a lovely, glossy glaze, while Dijon mustard adds a bit of sharpness that perfectly balances the sweetness. The chicken breasts are baked to juicy perfection, and with a final broil, they get an irresistible crispy edge. It’s a quick dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious and satisfying meal. Plus, the glaze can be drizzled on top, enhancing the flavor even more!

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Maple syrup
Dijon mustard
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper

Variations

Honey Dijon Chicken

Swap the maple syrup for honey for a slightly different flavor profile. The honey will create a more floral sweetness while still complementing the tangy Dijon mustard.

Spicy Maple Dijon Chicken

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze to introduce a spicy kick that pairs well with the sweet and tangy elements.

Lemon Maple Dijon Chicken

For a citrusy twist, add a tablespoon of lemon juice or lemon zest to the glaze. The brightness of lemon balances the richness of the maple syrup and Dijon mustard.

Chicken Thighs

If you prefer chicken thighs over breasts, this recipe works just as well with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They’ll be extra juicy, and the glaze will coat them beautifully.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined. This will create your sweet and tangy glaze.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the maple Dijon mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. If you prefer crispy chicken, proceed to the next step.

Step 5: Optional Broiling

For an extra crispy finish, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn, but this will create a beautifully crisp crust on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken hot, drizzled with any remaining glaze from the baking dish for extra flavor. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use bone-in chicken: While this recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can use bone-in chicken breasts for added flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook.
Ensure even coating: Make sure each chicken breast is thoroughly coated with the glaze to ensure even flavor throughout.
Rest the chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring it stays juicy and tender.

How to Serve

This Crispy Baked Maple Dijon Chicken is delicious when paired with a variety of sides. Serve it with roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The sweet and tangy glaze pairs perfectly with simple sides, enhancing the overall flavor of the meal. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain its flavor and juiciness.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly.

Reheating

Reheat leftover chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the oven will help keep the chicken crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly with this recipe. Just remember that they may take a bit longer to cook, depending on their size.

2. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just whisk it again before using.

3. Can I use Dijon mustard with a different flavor?

Absolutely! Try using whole grain Dijon or spicy Dijon for added texture and heat.

4. Can I use a different type of sweetener?

If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave nectar can also work as a sweetener in the glaze.

5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

6. Can I double the recipe for more servings?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra chicken and ensure even cooking.

7. Can I make this recipe with bone-in chicken?

Yes, just be sure to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken usually takes 35-45 minutes to cook, depending on the size.

8. Can I skip broiling the chicken?

Yes, broiling is optional. If you prefer a more tender chicken, skip the broiling step and simply bake the chicken.

9. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.

10. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and glaze in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just bake the chicken when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Maple Dijon Chicken with a Sweet and Tangy Glaze is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, this chicken is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, the maple Dijon glaze adds a unique twist that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and the satisfaction of a meal that’s both quick and impressive!