Save 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 to my family on a chilly evening and everyone loved the balance of maple sweetness and savory chicken.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: main protein for juicy flavor
- 3 large sweet potatoes: peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: for tossing sweet potatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt divided: seasoning for chicken and potatoes
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: seasoning for chicken
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: seasoning for sweet potatoes
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup: Grade A dark amber recommended for glaze
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: adds tang to glaze
- 2 tablespoons butter melted: for rich glaze
- 2 cloves garlic minced: fresh flavor in glaze
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves plus extra: for glaze and garnish
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon: spice in glaze
- ¼ cup chopped pecans: garnish for texture
- 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 This recipe always brings the family together around the dinner table, sharing warm conversations and hearty meals.
Notes
Substitute boneless thighs or chicken breasts if preferred but adjust cooking time accordingly. For extra color broil for 2–3 minutes at the end (watch closely). Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light cider. To make dairy-free use olive oil instead of butter in the glaze.
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.
Save This maple glazed chicken makes a delicious and effortless meal for any night of the week.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless thighs or breasts can be used, but adjust the cooking time since boneless cuts cook faster.
- → What is the purpose of the maple glaze?
The maple glaze adds a sweet and savory coating that caramelizes during roasting, enhancing both the chicken and sweet potatoes.
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and avoid overcooking by monitoring internal temperature closely; resting after roasting helps retain juices.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter in the glaze with olive oil for a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Light, crisp sides like a green salad, sautéed greens, or a fresh apple slaw complement the richness well.
- → Is it possible to broil for extra color?
Yes, broiling for 2–3 minutes at the end enhances browning but watch closely to prevent burning.