Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner routine with this incredible Maple Dijon Chicken recipe. In just 30 minutes, you can create a meal that tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant. The magic is in the sauce—a perfect harmony of sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard that creates a glossy, irresistible glaze over tender, juicy chicken. It’s simple, quick, and uses pantry staples you likely already have.
This recipe isn’t just about speed; it’s about flavor. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, solving the “what’s for dinner?” dilemma with a resounding, delicious answer. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this guide will walk you through every simple step to success.
Why This Maple Dijon Chicken Recipe is a Keeper
There are so many reasons to love this dish, but here are the top three that make it a staple in my kitchen.
Perfectly cooked chicken, juicy on the inside with a flavorful glaze on the outside.
Simply Irresistible Flavor
The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy is perfectly balanced. The maple syrup caramelizes into a beautiful glaze, while the Dijon mustard provides a sharp, delicious kick that cuts through the sweetness. It’s a flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults.
Ready in Under 30 Minutes
This is the ultimate weeknight warrior. From prep to plate, you’re looking at about 30 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. For another quick dinner idea, check out our Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage.
Made with Pantry Staples
No need for a special trip to the grocery store. This recipe relies on common ingredients like chicken breasts, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a few basic seasonings. It’s proof that you can make an extraordinary meal from ordinary ingredients.
The Perfect Ingredients
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic meal.
For the Chicken
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. They cook quickly and soak up the sauce beautifully. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
Olive Oil: For searing the chicken to get a nice golden-brown crust.
Salt & Pepper: To season the chicken and enhance all the flavors.
For the Maple Dijon Sauce
Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. It provides the sweetness and helps create that signature glaze.
Dijon Mustard: This is the star of the show. It adds a tangy, complex flavor that balances the maple syrup.
Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of vinegar brightens up the sauce.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a savory, aromatic depth.
Chicken Broth: To create the perfect sauce consistency.
How to Make Maple Dijon Chicken Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps for a flawless finish every time. This one-pan meal is as easy to make as it is to clean up.
The maple dijon sauce thickens into a perfect glaze in just minutes.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps you get a better sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Set it aside for later.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it on a plate.
Step 4: Simmer and Glaze
Pour the prepared maple dijon sauce into the same skillet. Bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—that’s where the flavor is! Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, until it starts to thicken slightly. Return the chicken to the skillet, turning to coat each piece in the glossy sauce. Let it simmer for another minute, and you’re done!
Tips for the Best-Ever Maple Dijon Chicken
Want to take your chicken to the next level? Here are a few expert tips.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets a beautiful, golden-brown sear.
Control the Heat: When simmering the sauce, keep the heat on medium-low to prevent the maple syrup from burning.
Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices locked in for a more tender result.
Delicious Variations to Try
This Maple Dijon Chicken recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also wonderfully versatile. Try one of these simple variations to switch things up.
Baked Maple Dijon Chicken
Prefer to bake? No problem. Sear the chicken on the stovetop as directed, then place it in a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the top and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Add Fresh Herbs
Stir in some fresh rosemary or thyme into the sauce during the last minute of simmering for an extra layer of savory, earthy flavor.
What to Serve With Your Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides. Serve it with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, a side of creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy quinoa. For a truly comforting meal, you can’t go wrong with our reader-favorite Crockpot Mac and Cheese. And to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce, some 30-Minute Dinner Rolls are a must!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce from getting too thick. You can also microwave it in short bursts until warmed through.
This dish is very versatile! It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a simple side salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over rice or alongside some fresh dinner rolls to soak up the sauce.
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They may require a few extra minutes of cooking time, so be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
The sauce will naturally thicken as it simmers. If you prefer it even thicker, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of cold water to create a slurry. Whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute until it reaches your desired consistency.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The best way to reheat is in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it until warmed through.
This Maple Dijon Chicken is the perfect 30-minute meal! Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared and coated in a sweet and tangy glaze made from maple syrup and Dijon mustard. A one-pan dinner wonder for busy weeknights.
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and chicken broth.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F). Remove from skillet.
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Return the chicken to the pan, turning to coat it in the sauce. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Calories: 385kcalProtein: 38gFat: 12gFiber: 1g
Notes
For Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can create a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce. Ingredient Tip: For the best flavor, use a quality whole-grain or smooth Dijon mustard and pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup.
If you loved this simple and delicious Maple Dijon Chicken, don’t forget to save it! Pin it to your favorite dinner board on Pinterest so you can easily find it for your next weeknight meal. Your friends and family will thank you!
A quick and delicious one-pan meal your whole family will love.
Hi, I’m Emily Carter, and welcome to FL Recipes! I share simple, healthy recipes that make cooking easy, fun, and delicious for everyone. more about me »
