Spicy Maple Garlic Glazed Chicken

This dish features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, including paprika and garlic powder, and then glazed with a sweet and savory maple syrup sauce. The balance of heat and sweetness creates a delightful harmony, making it perfect for dinner gatherings. This recipe is traditional yet has a creative twist with the maple glaze, and it's also gluten-free and dairy-free.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon monosodium glutamate
• 1 tablespoon maple sugar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sodium nitrite
• 1 tablespoon glycerin
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix salt, paprika, garlic powder, monosodium glutamate, maple sugar, sugar, sodium nitrite, and glycerin. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs and let marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Flip the chicken and pour the maple syrup over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.