Swedish Maple and Thyme Glazed Chicken Breast

Introduction

This Swedish-inspired Maple and Thyme Glazed Chicken Breast is grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill for a juicy, caramelized finish with a hint of earthy thyme. Using the Arteflame’s high-temperature center grill grate to sear and the flat cooktop to finish, this method locks in juices for an incredibly flavorful bite. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the grill.
3. Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light them.
4. Allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the grill is hot and ready.

Step 2: Make the maple-thyme glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, melted butter, thyme, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Sear the chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts on the center grill grate.
2. Sear each side for 1-2 minutes until caramelized.

Step 4: Move to flat cooktop

1. Transfer the seared chicken to the flat cooktop.
2. Brush with the maple-thyme glaze.
3. Cook, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 150°F.

Step 5: Rest and serve

1. Remove the chicken from the grill when the internal temperature is 150°F (as it will continue cooking off the grill to 165°F).
2. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Use high-quality maple syrup for the best flavor.
• Butter enhances the richness of the glaze and adds flavor.
• Resting the chicken is crucial to keeping it juicy.

Variations

1. Swedish Lingonberry Twist: Add a tablespoon of lingonberry jam to the glaze for a sweet and tart contrast.
2. Smoky Paprika Maple: Mix 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika into the glaze for a richer depth of flavor.
3. Garlic-Herb Infused: Add minced garlic and rosemary for an aromatic twist.
4. Honey-Thyme Delight: Replace maple syrup with honey for a different natural sweetness.
5. Mustard Maple Kick: Increase Dijon mustard to 2 tablespoons for a bolder, tangier glaze.

Conclusion

This Swedish Maple and Thyme Glazed Chicken Breast is a flavorful dish expertly cooked on the Arteflame grill. The maple-thyme glaze enhances the smoky grilled taste, giving you a restaurant-worthy meal right in your backyard.

Best pairings

• Grilled asparagus with butter and sea salt
• Caramelized sweet potatoes cooked on the Arteflame flat cooktop
• A hearty Swedish potato salad
• Grilled rye bread with garlic butter
• A crisp, chilled Riesling or a light Pinot Noir