Maple-Glazed Chicken Sweet Potatoes

This maple-glazed chicken with sweet potatoes brings together a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it a great weeknight dinner or a meal for guests. The combination of tender chicken breasts and caramelized sweet potatoes glazed with pure maple syrup creates a comforting plate that is as flavorful as it is simple to prepare.

I discovered this recipe on a crisp fall evening and it quickly became a favorite in my house. The maple syrup gives such a lovely glaze and the sweet potatoes soak up all those flavors beautifully, making every bite a delight.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: offers lean protein that cooks quickly and stays moist
• Large sweet potatoes: peeled and cubed for natural sweetness and creamy texture
• Pure maple syrup: adds a rich, complex sweetness without artificial flavors
• Olive oil: helps everything roast evenly and creates a crisp, golden exterior
• Apple cider vinegar: brightens the glaze with a subtle tang to balance sweetness
• Garlic powder: infuses savory depth that complements both chicken and sweet potatoes
• Salt and pepper: enhance the natural flavors and season each component perfectly
• Fresh thyme leaves: add aromatic herbaceous notes fresh is best but dried works well too
• Butter: enriches the pecans when toasting adding a nutty buttery finish
• Chopped pecans: optional but recommended for crunch and warmth in texture
• Fresh parsley for garnish: adds a fresh green pop and mild herb flavor to brighten the dish

Instructions

Searing and Roasting Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking and make cleanup effortless.

Coat the Sweet Potatoes:

In a large bowl, toss the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes with two tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, and salt plus pepper to taste. Ensure each piece is evenly coated. Lay them out on one half of the prepared baking sheet in a single layer so they roast evenly and get slightly caramelized.

Glaze the Chicken:

Using the same bowl, mix the chicken breasts with the remaining olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, thyme leaves, and salt and pepper. Toss well so every piece is evenly covered in the maple herb glaze.

Arrange Chicken on the Baking Sheet:

Place the coated chicken breasts on the other side of the baking sheet, keeping them spaced apart to ensure they roast nicely without steaming.

Roast Until Done:

Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through by making sure its internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 75 degrees Celsius. The sweet potatoes should be tender and browned.

Toast the Pecans:

While the chicken and sweet potatoes cook, melt butter gently in a small skillet over medium heat. Add chopped pecans and stir frequently for three to four minutes until fragrant and lightly toasted. Remove from heat promptly to avoid burning.

Finish and Serve:

Once removed from the oven, sprinkle the toasted pecans over the sweet potatoes. Transfer chicken and sweet potatoes to a serving platter and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.

I remember serving this to close friends one fall after a long hike and they were amazed how simple ingredients could taste so cozy and satisfying.

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken and sweet potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Consume within three to four days for best texture and flavor. To reheat, use a skillet or oven to avoid sogginess.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer darker meat with more juiciness. In place of pecans, toasted walnuts or almonds work beautifully. If maple syrup is unavailable, honey is a decent alternative though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon juice and olive oil to cut through the richness. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream also pairs well to add creaminess and balance sweetness.

This recipe’s balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a reliable crowd-pleaser every time. Enjoy the ease and comfort in every bite.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of chicken is best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, as they cook evenly while staying tender when glazed.

→ Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?

Yes, fresh thyme leaves provide a more vibrant flavor, but dried thyme is a good alternative and easier to store.

→ How do the pecans enhance the sweet potatoes?

Toasting pecans in butter adds a rich, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.

→ Is there a recommended oven temperature and cooking time?

Roasting at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes ensures the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes become tender.

→ Can this dish be prepared in advance?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but for best texture, roast the chicken and sweet potatoes just before serving.