Maple Glazed Chicken (Oven or Stovetop)

Ever had that perfect mix of sweet and savory in one bite? That’s exactly what happens when maple syrup meets juicy chicken. It’s like magic on a plate!

I’ve made this recipe so many times, and it never fails to impress. The glaze is sticky, rich, and just the right amount of sweet. Plus, it’s so easy—no fancy ingredients, just real, simple flavors.

Imagine tender chicken coated in a warm, golden maple glaze. It caramelizes just enough to get that glossy, slightly crispy finish. Every bite is pure comfort.

Let’s make this! Grab your ingredients, and I’ll walk you through it step by step. Trust me, this is going to be a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, Sticky Glaze: The maple syrup thickens into a glossy sauce that clings to every bite.
• Easy to Make: No complicated steps—just season, sear (or bake), and glaze.
• Versatile: Serve with rice, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Reheats beautifully, making it perfect for weekly lunches.
• Kid-Approved: The mild sweetness makes this a hit with picky eaters.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: About 50 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people but can be doubled for meal prep or a family gathering.

Difficulty Level

Beginner-friendly with minimal hands-on time.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this maple-glazed chicken, you’ll need:

• Large Skillet or Oven-Safe Pan: For searing and simmering the glaze.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine the glaze ingredients.
• Whisk: Ensures a smooth, lump-free glaze.
• Tongs: For flipping the chicken while cooking.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures the chicken reaches 165°F for perfect doneness.

Ingredients for Maple Glazed Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life (exact measurements in the recipe card below):

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Thighs stay extra juicy, but breasts work too.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance flavor.
• Olive Oil: Helps brown the chicken and adds richness.
• Pure Maple Syrup: The star ingredient for a natural sweetness.
• Soy Sauce: Balances the sweetness with umami depth.
• Cornstarch & Water: Helps thicken the glaze to a glossy consistency.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens up the dish with acidity.
• Garlic & Ground Ginger: Adds warmth and complexity to the glaze.

How to Make Maple Glazed Chicken (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels—this helps it sear properly.
2. Season both sides with salt and black pepper for a simple but effective base flavor.

2. Make the Maple Glaze

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
   • ½ cup pure maple syrup
   • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
   • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
   • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (to thicken)
2. Stir well until the ingredients are fully combined. Set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken

Stovetop Method (for a Crispy Finish)

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside (it will finish cooking in the glaze).

Oven Method (for Even Cooking)

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the chicken for 3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

4. Add the Maple Glaze

1. Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the maple glaze into the skillet.
2. Return the chicken to the pan, coating each piece with the glaze.
3. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

5. Rest and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Spoon extra glaze over the chicken for maximum flavor.
3. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

How to Serve Maple Glazed Chicken

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some great serving ideas:

• Over Rice or Quinoa: The sticky glaze soaks into the grains for a flavorful, satisfying meal.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans.
• Mashed Potatoes: The sweet and savory glaze complements creamy mashed potatoes perfectly.
• On a Salad: Slice the chicken and toss it into a mixed greens salad with nuts, goat cheese, and a light vinaigrette.
• In a Sandwich: Use leftover chicken for a maple-glazed chicken sandwich with arugula and a touch of Dijon mustard.

Storing & Reheating Maple Glazed Chicken

Refrigerator

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• Keep the glaze separate if possible to maintain the best texture when reheating.

Freezer

• This chicken freezes well! Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stovetop or in the oven.

Reheating Tips

• Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat in a covered skillet until warmed through.
• Microwave: Reheat in short 30-second bursts to avoid drying out the glaze.
• Oven: Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10–12 minutes until heated through.

Variations & Customizations

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha to the glaze.
• Use Chicken Thighs: Thighs stay extra juicy and absorb the glaze beautifully.
• Swap the Sweetener: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different twist.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, or even sage can enhance the earthy, aromatic flavors.
• Make it Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but be sure to check your soy sauce for hidden additives.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	25g
Sugars	18g
Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	1.5g
Sodium	500mg
Fiber	1g

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Maple Glazed Chicken FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes! Bone-in chicken will need a longer cooking time. Adjust the oven method to 375°F for 25–30 minutes.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?

Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free alternatives.

Can I marinate the chicken in the glaze?

You can marinate for up to 2 hours for extra flavor, but the glaze will thicken better when added during cooking.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is the perfect temperature for juicy, fully cooked chicken.

Conclusion

Maple Glazed Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that balances sweet, savory, and umami flavors in a sticky, caramelized glaze. Whether you cook it on the stovetop or in the oven, it’s an easy, satisfying meal that pairs well with a variety of sides. Try it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.