Maple-glazed chicken with sweet potatoes makes for a wonderful weeknight meal. It’s simple, cozy, and packed with delicious flavors. The rich sweetness of maple syrup pairs perfectly with tender chicken and creamy sweet potatoes. This dish is great for family dinners or when you want something comforting and easy to make.
Why You Will Love This Maple-Glazed Chicken
This recipe is all about ease and flavor. It uses everyday ingredients you can find in your pantry. The prep time is minimal, and it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you. Kids usually love the slightly sweet flavor of the chicken, making it a hit at the dinner table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some healthy sweet potatoes.
How to Make Maple-Glazed Chicken
Making this dish is straightforward. You start by marinating the chicken and preparing the sweet potatoes. Everything roasts together in the oven, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. The result is a hearty meal that’s absolutely delicious and stress-free!
What You Need
Ingredients for Maple-Glazed Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
Step-by-Step
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour half of the maple glaze over them. Make sure to coat them well. Reserve the remaining glaze for later. Let the chicken marinate while you prepare the sweet potatoes.
- In a separate bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the sweet potatoes evenly in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and push them to one side of the baking sheet. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the other side of the sheet.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for another 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sweet potatoes are tender.
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the chicken and sweet potatoes, then drizzle the reserved maple glaze on top.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Maple-Glazed Chicken
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. You might also enjoy it with a side of rice or quinoa for an extra bit of comfort. It works well for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
How to Store Maple-Glazed Chicken
To store leftovers, let them cool completely. Place the chicken and sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the meal for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure everything is warmed through, either in the oven or microwave.
Recipe Tips
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup slightly.
- Perfect doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Even cooking: Cut the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes for uniform cooking.
- Make ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before for extra flavor.
- Texture check: Check sweet potatoes for tenderness by piercing with a fork.
Variations & Swaps
- Different meats: Swap chicken for turkey breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Flavor twist: Add garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme for extra flavor.
- Cinnamon swap: Try nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight for better flavor. You can also roast everything a day before and just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
How do I freeze the leftovers?
Cool the chicken and sweet potatoes completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
The oven works best for reheating. Preheat to 350°F and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can use a microwave, but the chicken may lose some moisture.
Can I substitute sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Butternut squash or regular potatoes would work too, though cooking times might vary.
What are common mistakes to avoid?
Be sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Also, check for doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Maple-Glazed Chicken with Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 tablespoon for marinade, 2 tablespoons for sweet potatoes
Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Toppings
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour half of the maple glaze over them, coating well. Reserve the remaining glaze for later. Let the chicken marinate while preparing the sweet potatoes.
- In a separate bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
- Spread the sweet potatoes evenly in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and push them to one side of the baking sheet. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the other side of the sheet.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for another 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sweet potatoes are tender.
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the chicken and sweet potatoes, then drizzle the reserved maple glaze on top.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
