Description
Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls combine the caramelized sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the tangy and rich flavors of a maple Dijon marinated chicken breast, served over a nourishing base of grains or leafy greens. This easy-to-make, balanced meal offers a perfect fusion of sweet and tangy flavors with wholesome nutrition, ideal for meal prep or a healthy dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts
Vegetables & Base
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- Brown rice, quinoa, kale, or spinach (about 2 cups cooked or fresh)
Marinade & Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
- Toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds
- Feta cheese
- Additional drizzle of maple syrup or Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes for even roasting. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper, and half the garlic powder. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized at the edges.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon olive oil, remaining garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with the marinade. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge for stronger flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Baste occasionally with remaining marinade for extra moisture and flavor. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Base: While chicken cooks, prepare your choice of grain or greens. Cook brown rice or quinoa following package instructions, or wash and chop kale or spinach if using fresh greens.
- Assemble the Bowls: Slice the cooked chicken breasts. Arrange the grain or greens as the bowl base, top with sliced chicken and roasted sweet potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of maple syrup or Dijon mustard if desired, and any additional toppings like toasted seeds or feta cheese.
Notes
- Cut sweet potatoes uniformly for even roasting and perfect caramelization.
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight for bolder flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting sweet potatoes to promote crispiness.
- Add fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme immediately before serving to brighten flavor and presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: maple dijon chicken, sweet potato bowl, healthy chicken recipe, gluten free chicken bowl, meal prep chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, maple syrup mustard chicken