Maple Glazed Chicken with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience a delightful blend of sweet and savory with this Maple Glazed Chicken! This recipe features juicy chicken thighs coated in a rich maple syrup glaze, paired perfectly with tender, roasted sweet potatoes for a comforting meal. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this dish will elevate your weeknight cooking with its simple yet delicious flavors.
This Maple Glazed Chicken recipe brings together the warmth of maple syrup and the wholesome goodness of sweet potatoes, creating a dish that everyone will love.
Delicious Flavor Combination
The combination of maple syrup and savory chicken creates a delightful contrast that tantalizes the taste buds. The natural sweetness of the maple syrup complements the rich flavor of the chicken thighs, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and unique. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the balance of sweet and savory flavors in their meals.
Incorporating garlic and Dijon mustard into the glaze not only enhances the taste but also adds depth to the sweetness of the maple syrup. The blend of flavors works together harmoniously, ensuring each bite is full of taste and texture. This dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings comfort and joy during family dinners or gatherings.
Nutritional Benefits
Maple glazed chicken paired with roasted sweet potatoes offers a nutritious option packed with vitamins and minerals. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall bodily function. Moreover, the addition of sweet potatoes brings fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, making this meal a powerhouse of nutrition.
Using natural maple syrup instead of refined sugars provides a healthier alternative for sweetness while delivering essential antioxidants and minerals like manganese and zinc. This recipe enables you to enjoy a delicious dish without compromising on health, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals and families.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Maple Glazed Chicken with Roasted Sweet Potatoes is perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal throughout the week. Both the chicken and sweet potatoes can be cooked in larger batches and stored in the refrigerator, making it easy to reheat and enjoy whenever hunger strikes. Simply pack them into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.
Not only does meal prepping save time, but it also helps in maintaining portions and healthy eating habits. You can easily customize the recipe by varying the spices or adding different vegetables, making it a versatile choice that keeps your meal prep exciting and nutritious. Enjoy this delicious dish on busy weeknights with minimal effort!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting the recipe.
Directions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until tender.
Make the Maple Glaze
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, combine maple syrup, garlic, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Mix well.
Cook the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, add the chicken thighs and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until browned.
Glaze the Chicken
Pour the maple glaze over the chicken in the skillet and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken and caramelize.
Serve
Plate the roasted sweet potatoes with the glazed chicken on top. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the dish.
Enjoy your delicious Maple Glazed Chicken with Roasted Sweet Potatoes!
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftover maple glazed chicken or roasted sweet potatoes, storing them properly ensures they remain fresh and delicious. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. This will help to lock in moisture and flavors while keeping out any unwanted air that could spoil the food.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing them in portions, which can be reheated later in the oven or microwave. Just be sure to label the containers with the date for your convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing your Maple Glazed Chicken with Roasted Sweet Potatoes with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal to new heights. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad, drizzled with a light vinaigrette, to add a refreshing crunch. Another delightful option is to pair it with steamed broccoli or green beans, adding a vibrant color and additional nutrients to your plate.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze or on the sweet potatoes before roasting. The kick of heat enhances the overall flavor profile and adds another layer of complexity to this already delightful dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as breasts can cook faster.
→ What can I serve as a side dish?
A fresh salad or steamed greens would pair nicely with this dish.
Maple Glazed Chicken with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Experience a delightful blend of sweet and savory with this Maple Glazed Chicken! This recipe features juicy chicken thighs coated in a rich maple syrup glaze, paired perfectly with tender, roasted sweet potatoes for a comforting meal. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this dish will elevate your weeknight cooking with its simple yet delicious flavors.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until tender.
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, combine maple syrup, garlic, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Mix well.
In a skillet over medium heat, add the chicken thighs and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until browned.
Pour the maple glaze over the chicken in the skillet and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken and caramelize.
Plate the roasted sweet potatoes with the glazed chicken on top. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the dish.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 25g