Maple Ginger Chicken Traybake with Fennel

This Maple Ginger Chicken Traybake with Fennel is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The combination of tender chicken thighs and fresh fennel, coated in a sweet and savory maple ginger glaze, results in a comforting and delicious meal. The chicken thighs roast beautifully in the oven, developing a crispy skin, while the fennel and red onion become tender and slightly caramelized. The glaze, made from maple syrup, fresh ginger, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard, adds a burst of flavor that complements the roasted vegetables perfectly. With minimal prep time, this traybake is a great option for a hassle-free dinner that still delivers on taste.

INGREDIENTS

• Chicken thighs: 4 skin-on, the star protein of this traybake
• Fennel bulb: 1, sliced, adds a subtle licorice-like flavor
• Red onion: 1, sliced, for sweetness and depth
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for coating the chicken and vegetables
• Maple syrup: 1/4 cup, provides sweetness for the glaze
• Fresh ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated, adds warmth and spice
• Apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons, for tangy flavor balance
• Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon, adds a subtle sharpness to the glaze
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning
• Fresh thyme: Optional, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking tray.

Step 2:

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.

Step 3:

Place the chicken thighs, sliced fennel, and red onion on the tray. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4:

Pour the maple ginger glaze over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.

Step 5:

Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes, basting occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden.

Step 6:

Garnish with fresh thyme before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

• For crispier chicken skin, broil the traybake for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Serve with roasted potatoes or a light salad for a complete meal.

Helpful Notes

• You can substitute chicken breasts for the thighs, but reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
• If fennel isn’t available, use a mix of carrots and parsnips for a root vegetable alternative.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Jamie Oliver recommends adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the glaze for extra depth of flavor.

Enjoy a Hearty and Flavorful Dinner

This Maple Ginger Chicken Traybake with Fennel is an excellent choice for those who love simple, hearty meals with rich flavors. The combination of maple syrup and ginger creates a sweet and spicy glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables. The fennel adds a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken, making it a standout ingredient in this dish.

Why Traybakes are Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Traybakes are a fantastic way to prepare a wholesome meal with minimal effort. Everything is cooked on one tray, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Plus, the high oven temperature helps caramelize the vegetables and crisp the chicken skin, resulting in a dish that's packed with flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but reduce the cooking time by about 10 minutes to prevent overcooking.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the glaze can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Can I add other vegetables to the traybake?

Absolutely! You can add root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or parsnips to make the dish even heartier.

Do I need to cover the traybake while roasting?

No, roasting uncovered allows the chicken skin to become golden and crispy.

Pin it

Conclusion

Maple Ginger Chicken Traybake with Fennel is a flavorful and easy one-pan dinner, perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender chicken thighs with fresh fennel and red onion, all coated in a sweet and savory maple ginger glaze. The glaze is made from maple syrup, freshly grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard, creating a delicious balance of sweetness, warmth, and tang. After roasting for 35-40 minutes, the chicken becomes golden and juicy, while the fennel and onions soften and caramelize. For a crispier skin, broil the chicken in the last few minutes of cooking. Garnish with fresh thyme for added freshness and serve with roasted potatoes or a light salad to complete the meal. With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is a convenient yet satisfying option for any night of the week!