Pin this 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.
This dish became a favorite in my home after discovering how much my family loves the taste of maple with roasted vegetables. We return to it often for easy weeknight comfort.
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 Vegetables:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). 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.
- Add Glaze & 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.
- Add Spinach (Optional):
- Scatter baby spinach over the hot bake and let wilt before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, spooning pan juices over each portion.
Pin this This recipe is always a hit at our family table, especially during chilly evenings when everyone craves something cozy and nourishing. It's a meal we love sharing together, especially in fall.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this bake with a crisp green salad and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc for a complete meal.
Customization Ideas
Add chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 10 minutes of baking for added crunch and flavor.
Nutrition & Allergens
Per serving: 445 Calories, 19 g Fat, 40 g Carbohydrates, 29 g Protein. Contains mustard, generally gluten-free but check labels if needed.
Pin this This maple chicken bake will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Enjoy leftovers for lunch — they reheat beautifully!
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can boneless chicken be used instead?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for a lighter option. Reduce baking time by about 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- → What type of potatoes work best?
Sweet potatoes are ideal for this dish due to their natural sweetness, which complements the maple glaze perfectly.
- → How can I add crunch to this dish?
Adding chopped pecans or walnuts in the last 10 minutes of baking provides a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor.
- → Is it suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Always verify labels to ensure no hidden gluten is present.
- → What side can be served with this bake?
This bake pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc and can be complemented with fresh baby spinach or a light salad.