Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs are tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a sweet and savory maple glaze. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs well with various sides.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1/2 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)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Timing

Making the Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 30-35 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear Chicken: In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Maple Glaze

1. Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and thyme until well combined.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

1. Add Glaze: Pour the maple glaze over the seared chicken thighs in the skillet.
2. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
3. Baste: Halfway through baking, baste the chicken thighs with the glaze to enhance the flavor.

Step 5: Serve

1. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
2. Enjoy: Serve the maple glazed chicken thighs with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or rice, and drizzle with any remaining glaze from the skillet.

Nutritional Information

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

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	24g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	14g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	10g

Tips for Customization

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for some heat.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs are a deliciously sweet and savory dish that is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy this delightful recipe!