Maple Barbecued Chicken Recipe
Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Chicken
Servings: 8
Description:
This Maple Barbecued Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring succulent pieces of chicken grilled to perfection and smothered in a rich homemade maple barbecue sauce. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking to elevate a weeknight dinner, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard brings a distinct and tangy sweetness that complements the smoky grilled chicken. Ideal for serving at gatherings, this recipe also makes great leftovers!
Keywords:
Poultry, Meat, Free of…, Summer, < 4 Hours
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White wine vinegar | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Chicken breasts | 1 |
| Chicken thighs | 5 |
| Chicken drumsticks | 10 |
| Chicken wings | 10 |
| Onions (chopped) | 2 |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 1/2 tablespoons |
| Dijon-style mustard | 2 1/2 tablespoons |
| Ketchup | 1/4 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 1/4 cups |
| Cider vinegar | 2 1/2 tablespoons |
| Pure maple syrup | 1/2 cup |
| Pure maple syrup (extra for basting) | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1259 |
| Fat | 84.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 19.1g |
| Cholesterol | 335.8mg |
| Sodium | 1908.8mg |
| Carbohydrates | 31.6g |
| Fiber | 0.6g |
| Sugar | 25.9g |
| Protein | 89.4g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar and salt until well combined. Gradually add the olive oil in a thin stream, continuing to whisk until the marinade emulsifies and thickens. -
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts, thighs, drumsticks, and wings into two large bowls (or zip-lock bags if preferred). Pour the prepared marinade evenly over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate the chicken, allowing it to marinate for at least 8 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. -
Make the Maple Barbecue Sauce:
In a large heavy saucepan, combine the chopped onions, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, ketchup, chicken broth, cider vinegar, and pure maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally for about 50 minutes. The sauce should thicken to a syrupy consistency.Tip: The sauce can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for convenience.
-
Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill and prepare it for direct heat. Oil the grill rack and set it about 4 inches over the coals or gas flame. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 10 minutes on each side, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. While grilling, brush the chicken with some of the maple barbecue sauce and continue grilling for an additional 2 minutes per side, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly. -
Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through and beautifully glazed with the barbecue sauce, remove it from the grill. Serve hot with the remaining maple barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. -
Optional Garnish:
For added flavor and presentation, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, over the chicken before serving.
Tips for Success
- Marinating the Chicken: The longer you allow the chicken to marinate, the more flavorful it will be. Ideally, you should marinate it overnight. If you’re in a rush, at least allow 2 hours of marinating time.
- Grilling: For perfect grilled chicken, avoid flipping it too often. Let it cook evenly on each side, and be sure to baste it with sauce during the final stages of grilling to avoid burning the sugars in the maple syrup.
- Maple Barbecue Sauce Storage: This sauce is rich and versatile, so feel free to use it on other grilled meats, burgers, or even as a dipping sauce for fries.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Maple Barbecued Chicken with side dishes like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. The sweetness of the maple sauce pairs beautifully with the smoky char from the grill, making it the perfect dish for a summer picnic or backyard barbecue. For a well-rounded meal, consider adding a side of baked beans or cornbread for a true southern-inspired feast.
Conclusion
Maple Barbecued Chicken is a winning recipe that brings together the best of barbecue flavors with the richness of pure maple syrup. Perfect for a summer BBQ, this dish is sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a party, the deliciously sweet and smoky chicken will leave everyone coming back for more. So fire up the grill, get your marinade ready, and enjoy a delicious and memorable meal!
