Red Lobster Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving something deliciously different, Red Lobster’s Maple Glazed Chicken is a fantastic choice.

You’ll love how the rich maple syrup melds with the soy sauce and tart cherries for a standout glaze.

Let that glaze coat every inch of your chicken, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying!

Make sure to squeeze fresh lemon juice to balance out the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Red Lobster Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 boneless Chicken Breasts
• 2 cups Maple Syrup
• 3 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1/4 cup Tart Cherries (chopped)
• 1/2 Lemon (fresh)
• 1/2 cup White Sugar
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon Wedges (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Prepare the chicken.

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.

Set them aside.

Step 2:

Make the glaze.

In a small saucepan, mix the maple syrup, soy sauce, water, cherries, and sugar.

Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 3:

Thicken the glaze.

Increase the heat slightly and simmer for 1-2 minutes.

The glaze should thicken to a sticky consistency.

Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 4:

Cook the chicken.

Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.

Pan-fry the seasoned chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 5:

Combine and serve.

Drizzle the reduced maple glaze over the cooked chicken.

Garnish with fresh parsley and, if you like, lemon wedges.

Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Balance the Sweetness

If you find the glaze too sweet, you can modify the recipe by using less maple syrup or adding a splash of vinegar.

This simple change can make the dish better suit your taste.

Garnish with Care

When garnishing, the fresh parsley adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the glaze and the rich chicken flavor.

Consider using fresh lemon wedges to offer a zesty twist that pairs beautifully with your chicken.

Alternate Cooking Method

As an alternative to pan-frying, you can bake the chicken after browning it in the skillet.

By placing the skillet in a preheated oven, you can ensure even cooking and a juicy result.

What to Serve with Maple Glazed Chicken

Rice Pilaf with Vegetables

You can’t go wrong with a classic rice pilaf!

Prepare it with a mix of carrots, peas, and bell peppers to add color and flavor to your plate.

The light and savory nature of rice pilaf complements the rich maple glaze on the chicken beautifully.

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus makes a lovely side dish with maple glazed chicken.

Drizzle some olive oil on fresh asparagus and season with salt and pepper before popping them in the oven.

The crisp and tender asparagus pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory chicken.

Cauliflower Mash

Instead of the usual mashed potatoes, try a creamy cauliflower mash for something different!

Steam the cauliflower until tender, blend it to your preferred consistency, and season with a touch of garlic and butter.

It’s a healthier option and has a smooth texture that goes great with the chicken.

Cranberry Almond Salad

For a fresh and tangy twist, a cranberry almond salad can be a great choice.

Mix fresh salad greens with dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and a light vinaigrette dressing.

This vibrant and tasty salad provides a refreshing contrast to the maple glaze.

Grilled Peaches

If you’re in the mood for something unique, try serving grilled peaches as a side.

Simply slice peaches in half, remove the pit, and grill them until they’re lightly charred and juicy.

The natural sweetness of grilled peaches complements the maple glazed chicken wonderfully!

Variations and Substitutions

You can try using honey as a sweetener instead of maple syrup if you’re looking for a slightly different taste.

It can complement the savory aspects of the dish beautifully!

Experiment with different spices like paprika or garlic powder to add a new depth to the flavor profile.

Instead of soy sauce, tamari can be a good substitute if you’re looking to make the dish gluten-free.

For a fruity twist, consider adding orange zest to the glaze for a bright, citrusy note.

Swapping out fresh lemon juice with lime juice can offer an invigorating change, giving the dish a unique tanginess.

If you’re looking to vary the protein, pork chops or salmon can be used as alternatives to chicken.

This allows you to keep the flavors you love while mixing things up.

If you prefer a vegetarian approach, try using tofu or cauliflower steaks as a base.

They soak up the glaze beautifully!

For a richer glaze, add a tablespoon of butter which gives it a silky texture.

Using dried fruits like cranberries instead of cherries can offer a seasonal twist, particularly during holidays.

Customize these ideas to suit your preferences, and you’ll have fun creating your perfect version of the dish!

How to Store Leftover Red Lobster Maple Glazed Chicken

Start by allowing the chicken to cool to room temperature before putting it in the fridge.

Use an airtight container to keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out while in storage.

Move the container to the coldest part of your fridge to keep the flavors fresh.

Freezing Leftovers

If you want to keep the chicken for a longer period, freezing is a great option.

Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for added protection.

Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll be good for about three months.

Using the Right Container

Choose glass or BPA-free plastic containers that have secure lids for storing leftovers.

These containers help retain moisture and ensure that your chicken stays delicious.

Having the proper container makes it easier to organize and find later.

Labeling Your Leftovers

Don’t forget to label your containers with the date when you store the chicken.

This makes it easier to keep track of how long it’s been in the fridge or freezer.

Labeling helps prevent any guesswork when it is time to enjoy the leftovers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.

You want to make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Aim for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure juicy, succulent chicken!

Skipping the Sauce Reduction

Don’t skip the step of reducing the sauce as this intensifies the flavors and thickens it to glaze the chicken beautifully.

If you don’t cook the sauce long enough, it might be too watery and lose that rich taste.

Allow the sauce to simmer until it nicely coats the back of a spoon before applying it to the chicken.

Using Imitation Maple Syrup

Using imitation maple syrup can significantly alter the taste of your dish, leading to a less authentic flavor.

I recommend sticking to pure maple syrup for a rich and genuine sweetness that balances the savory notes of the chicken.

Trust me, real maple syrup makes all the difference in this delightful glaze!