If you’re dreaming of a meal that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color, let me introduce you to anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze. This fabulous combination is inspired by Greek harvest bowls, but with an irresistible sweet-savory twist—a dish where juicy chicken gets a glossy maple-garlic glaze, nestled beside roasted veggies, nutty grains, tangy cranberries, and salty feta. It’s gorgeous, absolutely satisfying, and comes together easily for any weeknight or a special lunch you want to show off. Trust me, you won’t get tired of making this bowl!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients—each handpicked to deliver that unmistakable mixture of fresh, tangy, sweet, and savory. Every item on this list is a crucial player, whether it’s adding texture, amplifying color, or infusing bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- Chicken (1½ lbs boneless, skinless breasts or thighs): A lean, juicy protein base that soaks up all that delicious maple garlic glaze.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): This gives the chicken moisture and a rich, fruity undertone in every bite.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Don’t skimp here—fresh garlic adds punch and depth to the marinade and glaze.
- Maple syrup (2 tbsp): Natural sweetness balances the garlic and adds a gorgeous gloss to the chicken.
- Dijon mustard (1 tsp): A touch of tang that brings all the flavors together and sharpens the glaze.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Boosts all the other flavors and seasons both the chicken and vegetables well.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): For a subtle herby hint that gives the chicken a Greek-inspired finish.
- Quinoa or rice (2 cups cooked): A hearty, fluffy base that soaks up juices and holds everything together.
- Roasted sweet potatoes (1 cup, cubed): Naturally sweet, deeply caramelized bites for color and comfort.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts (1 cup, halved): Brings a deliciously earthy, crispy-edged element to the bowl.
- Dried cranberries (½ cup): Chewy, tart bursts that play off the salty feta and sweet glaze perfectly.
- Crumbled feta cheese (½ cup): Creamy, tangy, and salty—brings the Greek flavor front and center.
- Toasted walnuts or pecans (2 tbsp): Adds crunch and nutty richness, elevating every spoonful.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of green for flavor and a pop of freshness to finish.
How to Make anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze
Step 1: Marinate and Glaze the Chicken
To kick things off, whisk the olive oil, garlic, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until it melds into a syrupy glaze. Place your chicken in a shallow dish or big zip-top bag and pour over the glaze, making sure every piece gets a good coating. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes if you have the patience (or even overnight for maximum flavor!). The marinade not only infuses the chicken but will double as a sticky glaze during roasting.
Step 2: Roast the Maple Garlic Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet, saving any extra glaze in the bowl. Slide it into the oven and roast for about 20–25 minutes, basting once or twice with that reserved glaze so the chicken develops a shiny, flavorful crust. When the chicken is cooked through and caramelized on the edges, pull it out and let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Roasted Vegetables
If you haven’t already roasted your sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, now’s the perfect time. Toss the sweet potato cubes and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast in a single layer for 25–30 minutes, shaking the pan once or twice, until beautifully golden and just crisp at the edges. Their roasted flavors are essential in balancing the sweetness and tang in anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
Spoon your cooked quinoa or rice into the base of each serving bowl. Pile roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts on top, then scatter with dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of toasted nuts for that perfect textural contrast. Next, slice your maple garlic chicken and arrange it lovingly on top, drizzling any pan juices or leftover glaze for extra flavor. The layered textures and jewel-like colors are what make anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze such a visual and gustatory treat.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your bowls with a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley for a boost of freshness and color. Serve your anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze bowls warm and watch as everyone dives in, swept away by that tangy-sweet, savory flavor combination—it’s pure joy in every bite!
How to Serve anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze
Garnishes
Brighten up your bowls with a dusting of extra parsley, a scattering of more feta, or even a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. If you want a pop of citrus, try a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving—the acidity wakes up all those rich harvest flavors in anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze.
Side Dishes
This hearty bowl really sings alongside a simple Greek salad dressed with oregano and lemon, or a platter of warm, fluffy pita bread for scooping. On chilly nights, pair it with a steaming mug of herby vegetable soup to keep the cozy vibes going.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze in wide, shallow bowls to show off every color—or on a big platter for communal, family-style eating. For meal-prep fun, layer bowls in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches. Top with microgreens or edible flowers to turn your weeknight dinner into something truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftovers cool completely before storing. Pack the components—chicken, grains, roasted veggies, and toppings—separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This helps everything stay fresh, and you can assemble your bowl as you go all week long.
Freezing
Both the chicken and the quinoa or rice freeze well! Simply cool, portion, and freeze in airtight containers for up to three months. However, avoid freezing the feta and cranberries as their textures change. When you’re ready to enjoy anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze, thaw the chicken and grains overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Gently reheat chicken, grains, and veggies in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Add the fresh garnishes, feta, cranberries, and nuts after reheating to preserve their flavor and crunch.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken to save time?
Absolutely! If you’re in a rush, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just warm and toss the pieces with the maple garlic glaze before adding them to your bowl for that signature anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze taste.
What can I substitute for Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes?
Feel free to swap in roasted butternut squash, carrots, or broccoli. Any veggie with some sweetness and body will pair beautifully with this harvest bowl.
Is there a vegan version of this dish?
You sure can! Replace the chicken with roasted chickpeas or cubes of marinated tofu, and use a plant-based feta to keep that creamy tang. The maple garlic glaze and hearty veggies will still shine.
How do I prevent the quinoa or rice from getting mushy?
Allow your cooked grains to cool slightly and fluff them with a fork before assembling. Avoid overcooking and drain off any excess liquid to keep that light, fluffy texture just right for anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze.
Can I make the maple garlic glaze in advance?
Definitely. Whisk up the glaze and keep it covered in the fridge for up to three days. Just give it a stir before marinating or glazing your chicken to bring back all the flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up your dinner routine with something colorful, wholesome, and full of Greek-inspired flavor, anberries & Feta with Maple Garlic Glaze is waiting for you. It’s a bowl you’ll want to revisit all autumn (and honestly, all year) long. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love bite after tangy, savory, sweet bite!