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 chilly evening when we were craving something hearty but simple. The sweet and savory flavors always remind me of cozy family dinners that bring everyone to the table.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare 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.
- Mix Maple Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme.
- Brush and Bake:
- Brush half the maple glaze over the chicken and vegetables. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Finish Baking:
- 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.
- Serve:
- Optionally, scatter baby spinach over the hot bake and let wilt before serving. Serve hot, spooning pan juices over each portion.
Save We love passing the pan around the table, scooping out generous portions while everyone shares highlights from their day. Even picky eaters tend to ask for seconds.
Required Tools
Large baking dish or sheet pan, mixing bowls, whisk, basting brush, chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains mustard (Dijon). Generally gluten-free. Check packaged ingredients for hidden allergens or gluten.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 445. Total Fat: 19 g. Carbohydrates: 40 g. Protein: 29 g.
Save Serve this meal piping hot and enjoy its sweet-savory warmth. It's a family favorite that always disappears fast!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning and glaze application. Roasting at the right temperature and not overcooking helps retain moisture and achieve tender meat.
- → Can I use boneless chicken instead?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well but reduce baking time by approximately 10 minutes to avoid drying out.
- → What spices are used in the maple glaze?
The glaze includes smoked paprika, dried thyme, garlic, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar to balance sweetness with a subtle savory depth.
- → Is it possible to add extra texture to this dish?
Adding chopped pecans or walnuts in the last 10 minutes of baking introduces a pleasant crunch and enhances flavor complexity.
- → What are good side options to serve with this dish?
A simple green salad or steamed baby spinach pairs well, providing freshness that complements the rich maple-glazed chicken and sweet potatoes.