Save to Pinterest Sweet and savory maple glazed chicken with roasted sweet potatoes, caramelized to perfection in one pan for the ultimate cozy fall dinner.
I first served this dish on a chilly autumn evening and it quickly became a family favorite thanks to its rich flavors and simple preparation.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients: 6 bone in skin on chicken thighs, 3 large sweet potatoes peeled and cubed into 1 inch pieces, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt divided, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Maple Glaze: ⅓ cup pure maple syrup (Grade A dark amber recommended), 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons butter melted, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish), ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Garnish: ¼ cup chopped pecans, Flaky sea salt for finishing
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Step 2:
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with ½ teaspoon salt and all the black pepper.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and garlic powder. Spread evenly on one side of the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 4:
- Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on the other side of the baking sheet, leaving space between pieces for even roasting.
- Step 5:
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, melted butter, minced garlic, thyme leaves, and cinnamon to make the glaze.
- Step 6:
- Brush half of the maple glaze evenly over the chicken thighs and sweet potatoes using a pastry brush.
- Step 7:
- Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush the chicken and sweet potatoes with the remaining maple glaze.
- Step 9:
- Return to the oven and roast for an additional 10 15 minutes or until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), and the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
- Step 10:
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Step 11:
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans, extra fresh thyme leaves, and flaky sea salt before serving.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings my family together around the table, sharing stories and enjoying the warmth of a homemade meal.
Required Tools
Large baking sheet, Pastry brush, Mixing bowl, Meat thermometer, Sharp knife, Cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains: Tree nuts (pecans), dairy (butter), mustard. May contain: Garlic (if sensitive). Always check labels for potential allergens in packaged ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Calories 540, Total Fat 28 g, Carbohydrates 35 g, Protein 34 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This delightfully easy recipe will surely become a go to for cozy dinners throughout the season.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What cut of chicken works best for this dish?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are recommended for juicy, flavorful results, but boneless thighs or breasts can be used with adjusted cooking times.
- → How do I ensure the sweet potatoes caramelize properly?
Toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, seasonings, and part of the maple glaze before roasting to help them develop a golden, caramelized exterior.
- → Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter in the glaze with olive oil to maintain moisture and flavor while keeping it dairy-free.
- → What is the ideal oven temperature and cooking time?
Roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 40-45 minutes, applying the glaze halfway through, until chicken reaches 165°F internally and sweet potatoes are tender.
- → Are there any suggested accompaniments or pairings?
This meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or a light, refreshing cider to balance the sweet and savory notes.