This grilled chicken is a tasty mix of sweet maple and fragrant rosemary. It’s super easy to make and perfect for summer barbecues!
You’ll love how the flavors come together. I mean, who doesn’t want a little bit of sweetness with their chicken? It makes for a delightful meal every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is a classic for this recipe. You could use thighs if you prefer a juicier cut. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as they may take a bit longer.
Maple Syrup: Go for pure maple syrup for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, honey or agave nectar can be good substitutes, but they’ll alter the taste slightly.
Fresh Rosemary: Fresh rosemary packs a fragrant punch here. Dried rosemary can work in a pinch, but use about half the amount since it’s more concentrated. I’ve found fresh herbs really elevate the dish!
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang. If you’re not a mustard fan, you can leave it out or use a touch of honey mustard for a different flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
To grill chicken perfectly, marinating it is key. Marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer is better, even overnight if you plan ahead. This boosts the flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Preheat the grill well before adding the chicken. A good medium-high heat helps get nice grill marks and locks in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer! This is the best way to ensure your chicken isn’t undercooked or dry. Aim for 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful.
Easy Maple Rosemary Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus a minimum of 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) for marinating in the refrigerator. Grilling will take about 15 minutes. In total, you’ll dedicate around 55 minutes to create a wonderful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the maple syrup, olive oil, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.
2. Season and Marinate the Chicken:
Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. Then, add the chicken to a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, aim for 2 to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once marinated, take the chicken out of the refrigerator and let the excess marinade drip off before placing it on the grill. Set aside the marinade for later. Grill the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Brush with the reserved marinade during grilling for added flavor.
5. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This rest time helps keep the chicken juicy. Finally, serve your grilled chicken garnished with extra fresh rosemary sprigs and enjoy!
Enjoy your sweet and aromatic maple rosemary grilled chicken! It pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
FAQ for Easy Maple Rosemary Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to confirm it’s fully cooked. Adjust the grilling time to about 10-12 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the pieces.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
The chicken can marinate for as little as 30 minutes or as long as 4 hours. If you want to marinate it overnight, that’s fine too, but be cautious as overly long marination can make the chicken a bit too salty due to the soy sauce.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Rosemary?
If fresh rosemary isn’t available, you can use dried rosemary as a substitute. Use about half the amount (1 tablespoon) since dried herbs are more concentrated. However, fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor that truly enhances this dish!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, ensuring it gets heated through without drying out. You can add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist while reheating.