This Maple Rosemary Grilled Chicken is a fun and tasty dish! The sweet maple syrup pairs perfectly with the fresh rosemary, making every bite extra special.
Grilling this chicken is a breeze, and the aroma will have everyone coming to the kitchen! I love serving it with some roasted veggies for a delicious dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this marinade as they absorb flavor well. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breasts work nicely too. You can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is key for that sweet flavor. If you’re out or prefer something different, honey is a great substitute. Just note that it will change the flavor slightly!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness, but you can replace it with avocado oil or even a light sesame oil for a twist.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary offers the best flavor, but dried rosemary can work in a pinch—just use less since dried herbs are more potent. Thyme is another lovely alternative if you want a change.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Make Sure It’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but these steps will help you get tender, beautifully cooked chicken every time.
- First, marinate your chicken. This is where the flavor comes from! Let it sit for at least an hour, but overnight is even better.
- Preheat your grill thoroughly. A hot grill creates beautiful grill marks and seals in juices.
- When grilling, avoid pressing down on the chicken. This can squeeze out the juices!
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check without cutting into the meat.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
These techniques will help ensure your grilled chicken is not only flavorful but also tender and delicious! Enjoy making this dish!
How to Make Maple Rosemary Grilled Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra for garnishing)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken (up to 8 hours for extra flavor). Once everything is ready, grilling will take about 15 minutes, making it a quick and delicious meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined, creating a sweet and savory marinade for the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For more flavor, you can marinate it for up to 8 hours!
3. Preheat and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade and place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You’ll know it’s ready when it has nice grill marks and is caramelized from the maple syrup.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps it stay juicy. Before serving, sprinkle on some extra chopped rosemary for a lovely touch. Serve with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the chicken for a fresh kick. Enjoy your delicious Maple Rosemary Grilled Chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces! Just keep in mind that they will require longer cooking time—about 15-20 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, you can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute. Both will provide a similar sweetness, but be aware that honey has a distinct flavor that will change the profile slightly.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on a skillet, adding a drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist and flavorful.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator will intensify the flavors. Just make sure to keep it well covered, and remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling to let it come to room temperature.
