If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and crunchy textures, you’ve got to try this Baked Crunchy Maple Dijon Chicken Recipe. It’s a deliciously crispy baked chicken coated in a crunchy cornflake-Parmesan crust, then glazed with a luscious maple-dijon sauce that adds just the right touch of tang and warmth to every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing friends on a casual night, this recipe effortlessly turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this recipe is lovely because the ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and color. From the crispy cornflake coating to the rich, sweet maple glaze, every component enhances the final dish.
- 6 cups cornflakes: Provides the signature crunch and crispy texture for the chicken coating; gluten-free options work beautifully too.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle, savory umami punch to the crunchy crust.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses the coating with a warm, smoky depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Introduces gentle sweetness and complexity to the crust seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings aromatic richness to the flavor base.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the glue that helps the crunchy coating stick perfectly to the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce: Wakes up the coating and the egg wash with a lively kick.
- 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins: Lean, tender, and quick to cook for juicy bites.
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling: Helps crisp and brown the crust beautifully during baking.
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for serving: Adds a fresh herbal brightness to finish the dish.
- 1/3 cup maple syrup: Provides sweet, sticky balance in the sauce for that signature maple dijon flavor.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Gives the sauce tang and sharpness for contrast against the sweet maple.
- 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce: Brings heat to the maple dijon sauce, creating a perfectly balanced glaze.
- 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder: Adds smoky, spicy warmth layered in the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Continues the savory theme in the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances depth and subtle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme: Brightens and herbs the sauce naturally.
- Sea salt, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Baked Crunchy Maple Dijon Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is crucial for getting that irresistible golden-brown crunch on your chicken. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things easy and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crunchy Coating
This step is where the magic begins! Use a food processor to pulse together the cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until you get fine, crumbly crumbs. No processor? No problem! Place the ingredients inside a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin or even your foot for a rustic, crunchy texture. Transfer the crumbs to a shallow bowl, ready for dredging.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Whisk the eggs with 2 tablespoons of hot sauce in a bowl, then add the chicken tenderloins and toss well to coat each piece completely. Next, dredge each chicken piece in the cornflake mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crunchy crumbs stick evenly. For an extra-thick crust, dip the chicken back into the egg and then again into the coating. Place the coated chicken on your lined baking sheet and give everything a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to promote that perfect bake.
Step 4: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Pop the chicken into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to see golden, crunchy crusts and a juicy interior, so if you have a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The kitchen will smell amazing as that crust crisps up and the chicken cooks through.
Step 5: Make the Maple Dijon Sauce
While the chicken is baking, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, remaining hot sauce, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, fresh thyme, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat, stirring regularly until the sauce is silky smooth and nicely heated through. This sauce is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy, ready to lovingly coat your crunchy chicken.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, drizzle the warm maple Dijon sauce over your chicken pieces. If your sauce thickens while standing, give it a quick zap in the microwave to loosen it up before drizzling. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for that fresh burst of color and flavor that completes this hearty dish.
How to Serve Baked Crunchy Maple Dijon Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley effortlessly brighten and freshen this dish. Their green vibrancy contrasts beautifully with the golden chicken and adds a pop of herbal flavor that lifts every bite.
Side Dishes
Serve this chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a crisp green salad. The crunchy, sweet, and spicy chicken pairs wonderfully with simple, comforting, or fresh sides to create a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this dish into a fantastic sandwich by layering it on toasted ciabatta with some crisp lettuce and a smear of extra maple Dijon sauce. Or chop the chicken and toss with a fresh slaw for a fun, vibrant salad bowl. It’s versatile enough to shine in lots of forms!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover Baked Crunchy Maple Dijon Chicken Recipe pieces in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible, so your chicken stays crispy until reheated.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each chicken piece individually or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to revive the crunch. Warm the maple Dijon sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave and drizzle just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular mustard instead of Dijon mustard?
While regular mustard can work in a pinch, Dijon mustard offers a smoother, tangier flavor that really elevates the maple Dijon sauce and complements the spicy-sweet balance perfectly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap regular cornflakes with gluten-free cornflakes, making this recipe safe and delicious for those avoiding gluten.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for tenderloins; just adjust baking time accordingly to ensure they’re cooked through and juicy.
How spicy is this recipe?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the hot sauce and chipotle chili powder, balanced by the sweet maple syrup. You can always adjust the amount of hot sauce to make it milder or spicier based on your preference.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely! The maple Dijon sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warm it gently before drizzling over your chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Crunchy Maple Dijon Chicken Recipe is one of those rare dishes that brings comfort and excitement to the dinner table simultaneously. It’s crunchy, juicy, sweet, tangy, and spicy all at once, and so simple to make. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how it becomes a new favorite in your home just like it is in mine. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Baked Crunchy Maple Dijon Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Crunchy Maple Dijon Chicken recipe offers a perfectly crispy, flavorful chicken coated with a seasoned cornflake crust and topped with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon sauce. A delightful combination of spicy, smoky, and sweet notes that pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs, making it an easy and satisfying meal for four in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Crunchy Coating
- 6 cups cornflakes (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Sea salt, to taste
Chicken
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Maple Dijon Sauce
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2–3 tablespoons hot sauce
- 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- Sea salt, to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh thyme or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Prepare Coating: In a food processor, pulse cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until fine crumbs form. Alternatively, crush these ingredients inside a ziplock bag. Transfer this mixture to a shallow bowl.
- Coat the Chicken: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in 2 tablespoons of hot sauce. Add the chicken tenderloins and toss to coat evenly.
- Dredge Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the cornflake mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the crumbs stick well. For extra crunch, dip the chicken back into the egg mixture, then again in the cornflake crumbs.
- Arrange and Drizzle: Place the coated chicken pieces evenly on the prepared baking sheet and lightly drizzle with extra virgin olive oil to promote browning and crispiness while baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is golden, crispy, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare Maple Dijon Sauce: While the chicken bakes, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, additional hot sauce (2-3 tablespoons), chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, fresh thyme, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm maple Dijon sauce over the baked chicken. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. If the sauce thickens before serving, microwave it for a few seconds to loosen.
Notes
- Use gluten-free cornflakes if a gluten-free option is desired.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the coating and sauce to control the heat level.
- For a thicker crust, double dip the chicken in egg and coating mixture.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- The sauce can be prepared in advance and gently reheated before serving.
