Ingredients
Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients. You probably have most of these in your kitchen already!
For the Maple Mustard Glaze:
- Maple syrup: The star of the show, offering natural sweetness.
- Dijon mustard: For that signature tangy kick.
- Garlic: Because everything’s better with garlic.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the chicken caramelize.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch for a subtle heat.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
For the Bowl:
- Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless, and sliced thin for even cooking.
- Grain of your choice: Quinoa, brown rice, or farro work beautifully.
- Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, broccoli, kale, spinach, or whatever you love.
- Optional toppings: Chopped nuts, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs.
How to Make the Maple Mustard Chicken Bowl
Preparing the Maple Mustard Glaze
Start with the glaze—it’s the hero of this dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This will give the glaze a subtle kick that balances the sweetness.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You’re aiming for a smooth, tangy-sweet mixture.
Cooking the Chicken
The secret to juicy chicken is all in the technique.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden and fully cooked.
- Pour the maple mustard glaze over the chicken in the last 2 minutes of cooking, allowing it to caramelize slightly and coat the chicken evenly.
Building the Bowl
Now comes the fun part—assembling your bowl!
Step 1: Choose Your Base
Start with a hearty base to anchor your bowl. Options include:
- Quinoa for a protein-packed option.
- Brown rice for a classic pairing.
- Cauliflower rice if you’re going low-carb.
Step 2: Add Roasted Veggies
Roasted vegetables bring texture and depth to your bowl. Toss cubed sweet potatoes and broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes. They should be tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Layer on the Chicken
Slice the glazed chicken into strips and layer it on top of your base and veggies. Don’t forget to drizzle any extra glaze from the pan—it’s liquid gold!
Step 4: Finish with Toppings
Here’s where you can get creative. Consider:
- Chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for crunch.
- A sprinkle of sesame seeds for nuttiness.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.