Maple Dijon Marinade (Sweet, Tangy & Perfect for Chicken & Pork!)

This Maple Dijon Marinade is a perfect blend of sweet maple syrup, tangy Dijon mustard, garlic, and warm herbs that creates juicy, flavorful chicken and pork every time. The maple caramelizes beautifully during cooking, giving the meat a gorgeous golden finish, while the Dijon adds depth and savory balance. It's cozy enough for fall and winter dinners, but bright enough for summertime grilling. Serve your maple-marinated meat with sides like Creamy Mashed Potatoes, Creamy Coleslaw, or Apple Pecan Salad with Maple Dressing for an irresistible, comfort-style meal.

Why You’ll Love This

• Sweet maple flavor balanced with tangy Dijon mustard

• Smooth, savory marinade with just the right depth

• Simple ingredients that come together quickly

• Perfect for chicken, pork, vegetables, or sheet-pan dinners

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

• 3 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or rosemary)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Optional: 1 tsp soy sauce for extra savory depth

• 1.5–2 lbs chicken or pork

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, vinegar, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.

2. Add chicken or pork to a resealable bag or shallow container.

3. Pour the marinade over the meat and refrigerate:

   • Chicken: 2–8 hours

   • Pork: 2–12 hours

4. Remove protein from marinade and shake off excess.

5. Grill, bake, or pan-sear until cooked through.

6. Rest the meat briefly before serving.

Marinade Time:

• Chicken: 2–8 hours

• Pork: 2–12 hours

• Max: 12 hours (maple + acid can tenderize quickly)

Cook Time:

15–25 minutes, depending on protein and method

Storage

• Unused marinade: 4–5 days

• Raw meat in marinade:

  • Chicken: Up to 8 hours

  • Pork: Up to 12 hours

• Cooked protein: 3–4 days

• Freezer: Freeze meat + marinade up to 3 months

Best Proteins for Maple Dijon Marinade

• Chicken breasts

• Chicken thighs

• Pork chops

• Pork tenderloin

• Pork shoulder strips

• Turkey tenderloin

• Salmon (marinate only 15–20 minutes!)

FAQ

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes — honey also works beautifully but has a stronger flavor.

Can I roast the meat with the marinade?

Yes, but for the best caramelization, pat the meat lightly before baking.

Is Dijon mustard required?

Yes — it balances the sweetness and helps emulsify the marinade.

Does this work on salmon?

Absolutely — marinate salmon only 15–20 minutes to prevent over-tenderizing.

Can I add herbs?

Thyme, rosemary, sage, or parsley all pair beautifully with maple.

Final Thoughts

This Maple Dijon Marinade strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, creating rich flavor and beautiful caramelization every time. The maple syrup adds warmth and depth, while Dijon brings just enough tang to keep things balanced and crave-worthy. Whether you’re grilling in the summer or cooking indoors during cooler months, this marinade makes everyday meals feel special with very little effort. It’s a versatile, comforting recipe you’ll reach for whenever you want juicy, flavorful results that never disappoint.