Description
Maple Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken cutlets seared to perfection and coated with a sweet and tangy glaze made from pure maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a hint of cayenne pepper. This quick stovetop recipe balances savory and sweet flavors for a delicious family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced horizontally into cutlets)
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Glaze
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
Garnish
- Chopped parsley, sage, or basil (optional)
Instructions
- Prep: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels ensuring excess moisture is removed, then season both sides with salt and ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Mix glaze ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and ground cayenne pepper until well combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken cutlets and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side or until they are nearly cooked through with a golden crust. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Deglaze the pan: Reduce the heat to medium-low, add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for about 2 minutes until the liquid is reduced by half.
- Add glaze and finish cooking: Stir the prepared maple syrup glaze into the skillet, then return the chicken to the pan, turning it to coat in the sauce. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken to a syrupy consistency and ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F as checked with an instant-read thermometer.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the glazed chicken with chopped parsley, sage, or basil if desired. Serve immediately for a warm, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F internally.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spiciness of the glaze.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken cutlets beforehand with a small amount of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes to complement the sweet and tangy glaze.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
