Air frying is a fantastic way to enjoy delicious meals with less mess and fuss. This maple glazed chicken breast recipe is simple, tasty, and perfect for weeknight dinners. The chicken turns out tender with a sweet, sticky glaze that the whole family will love.
Why This Maple Glazed Chicken Breast Is Great
This recipe is a winner for busy nights. It’s quick to prepare and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have at home. The sweet and savory flavors are irresistible. Plus, using an air fryer means less oil and more crispy goodness. You can serve this dish with a side of veggies or rice for a complete meal.
How to Make Maple Glazed Chicken Breast
Making this chicken is really straightforward. You’ll mix a flavorful glaze, coat the chicken, and let the air fryer do the work. It’s almost foolproof, making it a great option for any cooking level. Just follow the steps, and you’ll have a lovely meal ready in no time.
What You Need
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step
- In a bowl, mix together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Coat the chicken breasts with the maple glaze mixture.
- Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve with extra glaze if desired.
How to Serve Maple Glazed Chicken Breast
This chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed veggies or a light salad. You can also serve it over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that tasty glaze. It’s suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Just add a nice side, and you’re all set!
How to Store Maple Glazed Chicken Breast
To keep leftovers fresh, allow the chicken to cool down and place it in an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. Just make sure to wrap it well so no air gets in. To reheat, warm it in the air fryer or microwave until heated through.
Recipe Tips
- Check the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- If you like a thicker glaze, cook it on the stove until it reduces a bit before coating the chicken.
- Feel free to experiment with other spices or herbs to customize the flavor.
- If you’re short on time, marinate the chicken for 15 minutes instead of longer.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking.
Variations & Swaps
- For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the maple glaze.
- Swap the chicken breast for thighs if you prefer dark meat; they stay juicy and tender.
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Add fresh ginger to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
- Try using orange juice instead of maple syrup for a citrusy twist.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and glaze and keep them separate in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just coat the chicken when you’re ready to cook.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked, glazed chicken. Just wrap it tightly and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
For best results, reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.
What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?
You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or even honey mustard if that’s what you have on hand.
How do I prevent the chicken from being dry?
Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and let it rest before slicing. This keeps the juices inside.
Maple Glazed Chicken Breast
Ingredients
For the glaze
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
Main ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Coat the chicken breasts with the maple glaze mixture.
Cooking
- Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve with extra glaze if desired.
