Maple Roasted Chicken Quarters

Step 1

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will ensure the chicken skin becomes crispy while keeping the meat tender.

Step 2

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you prefer a bit more acidity to balance the sweetness, you can add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to the mixture. Set aside.

Step 3

Pat the chicken quarters dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up when baking. This step is essential for getting that golden, crispy exterior.

Step 4

Season the chicken quarters generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the chicken to help the seasoning stick and aid in the crisping process.

Step 5

Place the seasoned chicken quarters onto a roasting pan or baking dish. Brush the maple glaze generously over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated with the sticky, flavorful mixture. Reserve a small amount of the glaze to brush onto the chicken halfway through cooking for extra flavor.

Step 6

Transfer the chicken to the preheated oven and roast for 45 minutes. Halfway through, brush the chicken with the reserved maple glaze to enhance the flavor and ensure the glaze caramelizes perfectly.

Step 7

After 45 minutes, check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the meat. If needed, roast for an additional 10-15 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.

Step 8

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps retain the juices and keeps the meat tender.

Step 9

Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, if desired, and serve with your favorite side dishes. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad pair wonderfully with this dish.