Minnesota Maple-Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs

Introduction

Grill up juicy, flavorful chicken thighs with a rich Minnesota maple-balsamic glaze on your Arteflame grill. Sear them at 1,000°F for incredible flavor, then finish them to perfection on the flat cooktop griddle.

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup Minnesota maple syrup
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach grilling temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, melted butter, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the center grill grate at 1,000°F.
2. Sear for about 2-3 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.

Step 4: Move to the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the chicken thighs to the flat cooktop griddle, closer to the edge where the heat is milder.
2. Brush the chicken generously with the maple-balsamic glaze.
3. Cook for 15-20 minutes, occasionally flipping and brushing with more glaze until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from the grill when it reaches 150°F as it will continue to cook.
2. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Always let your chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
• Use high-quality Minnesota maple syrup for the richest flavor.
• Adjust cooking time depending on the thickness of your chicken thighs.

Variations

1. Spicy Maple-Balsamic Chicken: Add 1 tsp of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
2. Herb-Infused Maple Chicken: Stir in 1 tsp of fresh thyme and rosemary for an herbal touch.
3. Honey-Balsamic Glazed Chicken: Replace maple syrup with honey for a slightly different sweetness.
4. Asian-Style Glazed Chicken: Add 1 tbsp of soy sauce and 1 tsp of ginger to the glaze for an Asian twist.
5. Citrus Maple Glazed Chicken: Add 1 tbsp of orange juice and 1 tsp of zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus and bell peppers
• Garlic butter smashed potatoes
• Grilled sweet corn with herb butter
• A crisp, chilled Minnesota white wine
• A light, tangy coleslaw

Conclusion

These Minnesota Maple-Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs are bursting with rich, smoky flavors enhanced by the high-heat sear of the Arteflame grill. Grill like a pro and enjoy perfectly juicy chicken every time!