Maple Roasted Chicken with Sweet Potatoes

Maple Roasted Chicken with Sweet Potatoes is a delicious, one-pan meal that combines tender, juicy roasted chicken with caramelized sweet potatoes and a rich maple glaze. The sweetness of the maple syrup enhances the savory chicken, while the sweet potatoes roast to perfection, creating a comforting, flavorful dish that’s ideal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is an irresistible combination of savory and sweet. The maple syrup glaze on the chicken adds a touch of sweetness, balancing perfectly with the earthy flavors of the roasted chicken and caramelized sweet potatoes. It’s easy to make and requires minimal prep work, making it the perfect dinner for busy nights or weekend meals. The one-pan cooking method makes cleanup a breeze, while the flavors meld together beautifully as the chicken roasts.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (preferably pure)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt, pepper, and thyme. Set aside.
3. Prepare the sweet potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a large baking sheet or roasting pan.
4. Make the maple glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic until well combined.
5. Roast the chicken and sweet potatoes: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the same baking sheet as the sweet potatoes, nestling them in between the cubes. Drizzle the maple glaze over the chicken and sweet potatoes, making sure everything is coated.
6. Roast in the oven: Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Halfway through cooking, you can toss the sweet potatoes and baste the chicken with some of the glaze to ensure everything is evenly cooked and coated.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: For a more colorful dish, you can add other vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or parsnips to the pan along with the sweet potatoes.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the maple glaze for a little heat.
• Vegan option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and adjust the cooking time. You can marinate the tofu in the maple glaze for extra flavor.
• Herb options: Experiment with fresh rosemary, sage, or oregano for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken and sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be aware that chicken breasts may cook faster, so check them after 25-30 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Can I use a different type of syrup?

Yes, you can use agave syrup, honey, or another sweetener in place of maple syrup, but the flavor will change slightly. Maple syrup gives it a unique, rich sweetness.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the sweet potatoes and chicken in advance and store them in the fridge, then just bake them when you’re ready to eat. Alternatively, you can cook the whole dish and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I make this dish on a sheet pan?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for a sheet pan meal. Simply arrange the chicken and sweet potatoes on the same pan, as directed, for easy cleanup and a delicious one-pan dinner.

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

It’s best to use fresh sweet potatoes for this recipe to get the right texture. Frozen sweet potatoes may release too much moisture while cooking and affect the overall consistency of the dish.

Conclusion

Maple Roasted Chicken with Sweet Potatoes is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and comforting flavors. The crispy, caramelized chicken skin pairs beautifully with the tender sweet potatoes, all drizzled in a rich maple glaze. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pan dinner that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this dish will make any meal feel extra special.