Southern Marinated Maple Chicken

Southern Marinated Maple Chicken Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Southern Marinated Maple Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the tanginess of tomato soup. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner.

History

This recipe has its roots in Southern cuisine, where marinating meat in sweet and savory sauces is a common practice. The combination of maple syrup and tomato soup creates a unique flavor profile that is sure to impress your taste buds.

Ingredients

6 chicken breasts
0.5 cup of maple syrup
0.5 cup of corn oil
1 tbsp of garlic
1 tsp of ginger
1 can of tomato soup
0.5 tsp of freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except chicken.
Place the chicken in a large plastic bag and pour the marinade over the top.
Refrigerate overnight.
Grill the chicken and serve.

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a different texture.
Add a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Use honey or agave nectar instead of maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.

- Grill the chicken over medium heat to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn't burn.

- Baste the chicken with the marinade while grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Southern Marinated Maple Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the best cooking technique for this recipe, as it adds a smoky flavor to the chicken that complements the sweetness of the marinade.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can use ketchup or barbecue sauce as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, making this a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Southern Marinated Maple Chicken on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Southern Marinated Maple Chicken contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Southern Marinated Maple Chicken contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Southern Marinated Maple Chicken contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Southern Marinated Maple Chicken contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Southern Marinated Maple Chicken is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Southern Marinated Maple Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its sweet and savory flavors, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Southern Marinated Maple Chicken. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. Margaret was known for her delicious Southern cooking, and she had promised to teach me a new recipe that day.

As I watched Margaret gather the ingredients for the marinade, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the combination of flavors she was using. Maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of hot sauce - it was a unique blend that I had never tried before. Margaret explained that the sweetness of the maple syrup would balance out the salty soy sauce and the heat from the hot sauce, creating a perfectly balanced marinade for the chicken.

As she marinated the chicken thighs in the mixture, I could already smell the mouthwatering aroma that filled the kitchen. Margaret then showed me how to cook the chicken on the grill, basting it with the remaining marinade to lock in the flavors and keep the meat juicy and tender.

Once the chicken was cooked to perfection, Margaret served it alongside some creamy mashed potatoes and buttery corn on the cob. With the first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this Southern Marinated Maple Chicken recipe countless times, each time tweaking it slightly to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about how delicious it is. But the true magic of this recipe lies in the memories it holds for me - of that sunny afternoon in Margaret's kitchen, learning a new recipe that would become a beloved tradition in my own home.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Southern Marinated Maple Chicken with my grandchildren, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, whether it's a cherished family recipe passed down through generations or a new discovery made in a friend's kitchen.

And as I watch my grandchildren savor every bite of the chicken, I know that this recipe will be one that they remember fondly, just as I do. Cooking is more than just following a set of instructions - it's about creating memories, sharing stories, and passing on traditions. And I am grateful to have had the opportunity to do just that with this recipe for Southern Marinated Maple Chicken.