Save Tender chicken thighs and sweet potatoes are roasted together in a luscious maple glaze creating a comforting, sweet-savory meal perfect for any night of the week.
I first made this maple glazed chicken & sweet potato bake on a rainy weeknight when I wanted something hearty yet healthy. The aroma of maple and garlic roasting together always brings friends and family around the table faster than any announcement.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetables: 2 large sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes), 1 red onion (cut into wedges), 2 cups baby spinach (optional, for serving)
- Maple Glaze: 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss Vegetables:
- In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes and red onion with half the olive oil, half the salt, and half the pepper. Spread evenly in a large baking dish or rimmed sheet pan.
- Prepare Chicken:
- Pat chicken thighs dry, rub with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Nestle them among the sweet potatoes.
- Make Maple Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme.
- Brush & Bake:
- Brush half the maple glaze over the chicken and vegetables. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Finish & Serve:
- Brush with remaining glaze. Continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temperature) and sweet potatoes are tender. Optionally, scatter baby spinach over the hot bake and let wilt before serving. Serve hot, spooning pan juices over each portion.
Save After the first taste test, my kids asked for seconds and the leftovers disappeared by lunchtime the next day. This recipe quickly became one of our go-to family comfort meals, especially during colder months.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or add chopped pecans to the last 10 minutes of baking for added crunch. A simple side salad brings bright freshness to the plate.
Required Tools
Large baking dish or sheet pan, mixing bowls, whisk, basting brush, chef's knife and cutting board are all you'll need for this recipe.
Nutrition Information
Per serving: Calories 445, Total Fat 19 g, Carbohydrates 40 g, Protein 29 g. These numbers make it a balanced option for dinner that will keep you satisfied.
Save This simple bake brings rich maple aroma and a tender, savory result that will satisfy every appetite. It's perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings alike.
Recipe Guide
- → What is the best cut of chicken to use?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal for juicy, flavorful results, but boneless skinless thighs can be used with a shorter cooking time.
- → Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, vegetables like red onion are included, and chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts can be added near the end for texture.
- → How do I know when the chicken is cooked properly?
Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
- → What flavors are in the maple glaze?
The glaze combines maple syrup with Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme for a balanced sweet, tangy, and smoky taste.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it is generally gluten-free, but always check the labels of packaged ingredients to ensure they contain no gluten.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh from the oven to enjoy the glaze’s texture and the tenderness of the chicken and sweet potatoes.