Maple-Dijon Herb-Infused Chicken Bake
Discover the delightful flavors of this Maple-Dijon Herb-Infused Chicken Bake! This recipe harmoniously blends the sweetness of rich maple syrup with the tang of Dijon mustard, enriched with the freshness of dill and zesty citrus. The result is a succulent dish that's perfect for any occasion—whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in. With just a handful of ingredients, this oven-baked chicken becomes incredibly tender and flavor-infused, making it a beloved choice for family dinners. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will adore.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
maple syrup
1/4 cup (none)
Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons (none)
fresh dill
2 tablespoons (chopped)
lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon (none)
lemon zest
2 teaspoons (grated)
garlic clove
1 (crushed)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 (none)
Instructions
1
In a large zip-top bag, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, and crushed garlic. Mix well to create a marinade.
2
Add the boneless skinless chicken breasts to the bag, ensuring they are generously coated with the marinade. Seal the bag tightly, removing excess air, and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour, or for enhanced flavor, marinate for up to 24 hours.
3
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the marinated chicken and all the marinade into a baking dish, spreading the chicken in a single layer.
4
Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste with the sauce halfway through for added moisture and flavor.
5
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Spoon any remaining sauce over the chicken before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maple-Dijon Herb-Infused Chicken Bake?
It is a succulent oven-baked dish that harmoniously blends the sweetness of rich maple syrup with the tang of Dijon mustard, fresh dill, and zesty citrus.
What are the primary flavor profiles of this dish?
This recipe features a balance of sweet, tangy, fresh, and zesty flavors derived from maple syrup, Dijon mustard, dill, and lemon.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
You should marinate the chicken for a minimum of 1 hour, but for enhanced flavor, you can marinate it for up to 24 hours.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking.
How long does the chicken take to bake?
The chicken typically bakes for 30 to 40 minutes depending on the thickness of the breasts.
What is the recommended internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is cooked through once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Should the chicken be baked covered or uncovered?
The chicken should be baked uncovered to allow the sauce to thicken and the chicken to develop color.
Do I need to do anything while the chicken is in the oven?
Yes, you should baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through the baking time for added moisture and flavor.
How many chicken breasts does this recipe require?
The recipe calls for 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts.
What ingredients are in the marinade?
The marinade consists of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, and crushed garlic.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?
While fresh dill provides the best flavor, you can substitute dried dill if necessary, using about one-third of the amount called for.
Is balsamic vinegar necessary for this recipe?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar is included to add depth and acidity to the marinade.
How should I prepare the garlic for the marinade?
The garlic clove should be crushed to release its oils and flavor into the marinade.
How do I make the marinade?
Combine all the marinade ingredients in a large zip-top bag and mix them well before adding the chicken.
Should I rest the chicken after it is cooked?
Yes, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
What should I do with the remaining sauce in the pan?
Spoon any remaining sauce from the baking dish over the chicken before serving.
Is this dish suitable for a dinner party?
Absolutely, its sophisticated flavor profile makes it perfect for hosting friends or a special family meal.
How much maple syrup is needed?
You will need 1/4 cup of maple syrup for this recipe.
How much Dijon mustard is used?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but they must be completely thawed before marinating to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat properly.
What can I serve with this chicken?
It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a side of rice, or a fresh garden salad.
How do I get the most flavor out of the lemon?
The recipe uses both 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice and 2 teaspoons of grated lemon zest for maximum citrus impact.
Is this a quick-prep recipe?
Yes, the preparation is fast; the main time requirement is for the chicken to marinate and bake.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and bake them in a larger dish or two separate dishes.
What type of baking dish should I use?
Any oven-safe baking dish that allows the chicken to be spread in a single layer will work.
Do I need to add salt and pepper?
Yes, salt and pepper should be added to taste to enhance all the other flavors in the dish.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
You can substitute honey, though the flavor profile will shift slightly from the earthy sweetness of maple to a more floral sweetness.
Why is it important to remove excess air from the marinade bag?
Removing the air ensures that the marinade stays in constant contact with the chicken for better absorption.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check your Dijon mustard and balsamic vinegar labels to be certain.