Maple Mustard Grilled Chicken is a deliciously tangy and sweet dish that combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and Dijon mustard into a flavorful marinade for chicken. The natural sweetness of the maple syrup balances the sharpness of the mustard, while the addition of garlic and fresh herbs creates a perfectly seasoned chicken. Grilled to perfection, the chicken develops a beautiful caramelized crust while staying juicy and tender on the inside. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of rice.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Maple Mustard Grilled Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that will impress your guests and become a new favorite for your grilling repertoire!