Introduction:
If you’re looking for that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, this Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs recipe is your next dinner obsession. Tender, juicy chicken thighs are coated in a glossy glaze made from real maple syrup, tangy Dijon mustard, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce.
It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough to impress guests. The flavor combo hits all the right notes — sticky, savory, slightly sweet, and full of character. Plus, it uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry!
🛒 Ingredients:
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these flavorful chicken thighs:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skin-on chicken thighs | 6 pieces (about 2 lbs) | You can also use bone-in thighs; just adjust cooking time |
| Pure maple syrup | 1/3 cup | Go for 100% pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup |
| Dijon mustard | 3 tbsp | Maille or Grey Poupon are great options |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Helps the sauce cling and adds richness |
| Low-sodium soy sauce | 1 tbsp | Adds umami depth |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tbsp | Balances sweetness |
| Cloves garlic Minced | 3 cloves | Fresh is best |
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ½ tsp | Freshly ground for flavor |
| Dried thyme or Dried rosemary | 1 tsp | Optional, for aroma |
| Lemon juice | 1 tsp | Optional, for brightness |
🔪 Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances:
- Cutting board or Bamboo Cutting Board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl or Glass Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and Measuring spoons
- Large oven-proof skillet or heavy-based frying pan
- Tongs
- Oven mitts
- Thermometer
- Paper towels
🧑🍳 Preparation Steps (Barney Style – Step-by-Step):
- Trim & Prep Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. - Make the Glaze:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper. - Marinate (Optional):
Let the chicken soak in half the sauce for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the fridge. - Preheat Oven:
Set your large oven to 400°F (200°C). - Sear the Chicken:
Heat a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle a bit of olive oil, and sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side. - Add the Sauce:
Pour in the remaining glaze and let it bubble for a minute. - Bake:
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) (check with a thermometer). - Rest & Serve:
Spoon the sauce over the chicken again and let it rest 5 minutes before serving.
🔥 Cooking Tips & Secrets:
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for that glossy, caramelized glaze.
- Add smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- A pinch of Italian seasoning adds herby depth.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs with:
- Creamy mashed baby potatoes
- Roasted carrots
- Orzo pasta (orzo pasta)
- Fresh salad with lemon zest
Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro or green onions.
💡 Additional Tips:
- Want it healthier? Reduce maple syrup to ¼ cup and use low-sodium soy sauce.
- Want it spicier? Add a dash of Cayenne Pepper.
- Prefer grilling? You can grill the marinated thighs over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side.
- Serve on a serving platter with a serving bowl of extra glaze on the side.
🧾 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 325 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Sugars | 11 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 110 mg |
| Sodium | 410 mg |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
❓ FAQ Section:
Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Just reduce baking time to about 18–20 minutes since breasts cook faster.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight serving dish or container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.
Q3: Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
❤️ Wrap-Up:
There’s just something magical about Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs — the sticky glaze, the tender bite, and that sweet-savory harmony.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but takes less than 40 minutes from start to finish.
Fun fact: The combo of Dijon mustard (France) and maple syrup (North America) is a perfect culinary love story — a cross-continental comfort food marriage.
So grab your whisk, tongs, and oven mitts, and bring some cozy, golden goodness to your dinner table tonight!
