Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavors of maple syrup with savory chicken. This recipe results in juicy, tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and sticky glaze, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

Ingredients List

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Timing

Preparing Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30-35 minutes of cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Mix Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and thyme until well combined.
2. Season Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Combine: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
2. Marinate: Seal the bag or cover the dish, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat Oil: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place it skin-side down in the hot skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
3. Flip Chicken: Flip the chicken thighs over and sear the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

1. Add Marinade: Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken thighs in the skillet.
2. Transfer to Oven: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.

Step 6: Serve

1. Rest: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
2. Garnish: Serve the chicken thighs drizzled with the glaze from the skillet. Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	24g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	8g

Tips for Customization

• Add Spice: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Vegetable Addition: Add vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts to the skillet during the last 15 minutes of baking for a complete meal.
• Different Cuts: You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or drumsticks; adjust cooking time accordingly.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftover maple glazed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together the sweetness of maple syrup and the savory taste of chicken. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but reduce the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

What can I serve with maple glazed chicken thighs?

These chicken thighs pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.