Introduction
Discover the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this delectable grilled chicken recipe. Infused with a homemade marinade featuring maple syrup, soy sauce, and fresh herbs, this dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. With tender, juicy chicken breasts grilled to perfection, you’ll impress your family and friends alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– ½ cup maple syrup
– ¼ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
– 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
– 1 shallot, diced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
Prep Time
Preparation for this flavorful dish takes approximately 10 minutes, ensuring you can start cooking in no time!
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 10 minutes on the grill. Including marinating time, the total time for this recipe can range from 40 minutes to overnight, depending on how long you choose to marinate the chicken. This recipe yields 6 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Enjoy the delicious flavors that each bite has to offer!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, reduced sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, diced shallot, chopped fresh rosemary, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a gallon-sized Ziploc bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal the bag tightly and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. Turn the bag occasionally to ensure even marination.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 4: Prepare the Chicken for Grilling
After marination, remove the chicken breasts from the bag and discard the marinade. Brush the chicken with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Optionally, season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C), which will take about 10 minutes.
Step 6: Serve the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired.
Notes
Marination Time
For best results, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor, but a minimum of 30 minutes will still provide good taste.
Adjusting Seasoning
Feel free to adjust the levels of salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Grilling Alternatives
If you don’t have a grill, this chicken can also be cooked in a grill pan or baked in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until fully cooked.
Storage
Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in the maple syrup and soy sauce mixture enhances its flavor and tenderness. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, can result in a more flavorful dish.
Grilling
Grilling the chicken over medium-high heat allows for a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. It’s essential to turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Seasoning
Seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper before grilling adds an extra layer of flavor. Don’t be afraid to add more if desired for a personalized taste.
Garnishing
Using fresh rosemary sprigs as a garnish not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also adds a fresh aroma that complements the flavors of the grilled chicken.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, this marinade can also be used with pork, tofu, or even vegetables. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins.
What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?
Dried rosemary can be used as a substitute, but you should use it sparingly since it has a more concentrated flavor.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup?
You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup, but keep in mind that this will slightly change the flavor profile.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, the marinade can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days. Just ensure to re-mix it before using.
Conclusion
The combination of maple syrup and soy sauce creates a delightful balance of sweetness and umami that enhances the chicken’s flavor profile beautifully. This grilled chicken recipe is not only simple but also versatile, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or weeknight dinners. With the fresh rosemary adding a fragrant touch, each bite is sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Honey-Garlic Shrimp
Marinate shrimp in honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and a squeeze of lemon for a quick and delicious meal.
Maple-Dijon Glazed Salmon
Use maple syrup and Dijon mustard to create a glaze for salmon fillets before baking or grilling.
Rosemary Lemon Roasted Vegetables
Toss your favorite vegetables with olive oil, fresh rosemary, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a flavorful side dish.
Soy Sauce and Ginger Stir-Fry
Stir-fry your choice of protein and vegetables with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a quick and savory dish.
Herb-Infused Olive Oil for Dipping
Combine olive oil with fresh rosemary, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice for a delicious dipping oil for bread.
