Maple-glazed chicken served with roasted sweet potatoes on a plate

Why Make This Recipe

Maple-glazed chicken with sweet potatoes is a delightful meal that combines flavors perfectly. The sweet maple syrup and tender chicken create a tasty dish that everyone will enjoy. The sweet potatoes add a healthy touch and balance the sweetness of the glaze. Plus, this recipe is easy to make and uses simple ingredients that you might already have at home. It's great for sharing with family or friends and perfect for any day of the week.

How to Make Maple-Glazed Chicken with Sweet Potatoes

Making maple-glazed chicken with sweet potatoes is straightforward. Here's how to do it step by step, with clear instructions so even beginner cooks can follow along.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
½ cup pure maple syrup
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme)
2 tablespoons butter
¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the chicken and sweet potatoes cook evenly.
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the sweet potatoes are well coated. Spread them in a single layer on one half of a lined baking sheet.
Prepare the Chicken: In the same bowl, add the chicken breasts. Combine them with the remaining olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, thyme, and more salt and pepper. Toss the chicken until it's fully coated with the sauce.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the maple-glazed chicken on the other half of the baking sheet. Make sure the chicken pieces are not touching or overlapping.
Roast Everything: Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes. Check until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Toast the Pecans: In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped pecans and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until they smell nice and are slightly toasted.
Serve: Once the chicken and sweet potatoes are ready, take them out of the oven. Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the sweet potatoes for a crunchy topping. Transfer everything to a serving platter and garnish with chopped parsley.

How to Serve Maple-Glazed Chicken with Sweet Potatoes

Serve the maple-glazed chicken and sweet potatoes hot from the oven. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed veggies on the side. If you have any leftovers, it's also tasty when reheated. Consider adding a drizzle of extra maple syrup on top for an extra sweet touch.

How to Store Maple-Glazed Chicken with Sweet Potatoes

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave or warm them up in the oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Maple-Glazed Chicken with Sweet Potatoes

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh sweet potatoes and herbs enhance the dish's flavor.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of maple syrup.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts for more color and nutrition.
Check Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked properly.

Variation (If Any)

For a different twist, try using brown sugar instead of maple syrup. This adds a deeper flavor to the glaze. You can also replace chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result. Additionally, consider adding spices like paprika or chili for some heat.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you need to thaw them completely before cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sweet potatoes and chicken, then store them in the fridge before roasting them. Just cook them when you're ready to eat.

3. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish goes well with a green salad, rice, or steamed broccoli for a full meal.

Conclusion

Maple-glazed chicken with sweet potatoes is a satisfying and easy recipe that anyone can enjoy making. With its sweet and savory flavors, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful meal with your loved ones!