Description

Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls offer a comforting and flavorful meal featuring tender marinated chicken breasts, roasted sweet potatoes, and a hearty quinoa or brown rice base, all garnished with fresh herbs. This dish balances sweetness from maple syrup with the tanginess of Dijon mustard, perfect for a nutritious and satisfying bowl that warms your soul.

Ingredients

Scale

Sweet Potatoes

2 medium sweet potatoes (substitute with butternut squash or carrots)
2 tablespoons olive oil (substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic for stronger flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste

Chicken & Marinade

4 chicken breasts (substitute with chicken thighs for extra juiciness)
3 tablespoons maple syrup (substitute with honey)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (whole grain mustard can be used)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Grain Base and Garnish

1 cup quinoa or brown rice
Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper ensuring an even coating.
Roast Sweet Potatoes: Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even caramelization, until the cubes are tender and slightly browned.
Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a well-blended marinade.
Marinate Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with the prepared marinade. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Cook Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cook Grain: Prepare the quinoa or brown rice according to the package instructions to serve as the base of the bowl.
Assemble Bowls: Slice the cooked chicken breasts. Assemble bowls by layering quinoa or rice, roasted sweet potatoes, sliced chicken, and garnish generously with fresh herbs.

Notes

Sweet potatoes can be substituted with butternut squash or carrots for a different flavor profile.
Fresh minced garlic can replace garlic powder for a more robust taste.
Chicken thighs may be used instead of breasts for juicier meat.
Maple syrup can be swapped with honey for a different sweetness.
Whole grain mustard offers a chunkier texture compared to Dijon mustard.
Using fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro enhances the flavor and presentation.
Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting and Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: maple dijon chicken, sweet potato bowls, roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa bowl, healthy dinner, easy chicken recipe, comforting meals