Maple Dijon Chicken Bowls

Maple Dijon Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls are a vibrant celebration of autumn flavors, combining sweet and savory notes in one nutritious meal. This hearty, comforting bowl features juicy chicken glazed in a luscious maple and Dijon sauce, nestled atop perfectly roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, all served over a base of nutty brown or wild rice. Finished with crunchy pecans, tart dried cranberries, and fresh herbs, it is the perfect dinner for cozy nights.

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As the aroma of roasting sweet potatoes and fresh rosemary fills your kitchen, you'll appreciate how simple ingredients can transform into a restaurant-quality meal. This recipe is designed to be approachable yet impressive, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and quiet weekend dinners.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
• 1/2 tsp salt (for chicken)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (for chicken)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for skillet)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for glaze)
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch cubes
• 12 oz (340 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved or quartered
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for roasting)
• 1/2 tsp salt (for veggies)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (for veggies)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1 cup brown or wild rice, uncooked
• 2 cups water or broth
• 1/2 tsp salt (for rice)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook rice according to package instructions with water/broth and salt (usually about 40 minutes for brown rice).

Step 2

Toss sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using). Spread in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until caramelized and tender.

Step 3

Meanwhile, pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.

Step 4

In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp olive oil, and rosemary to make the glaze.

Step 5

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). During the last 2 minutes, brush both sides of the chicken generously with maple Dijon glaze. Reserve extra glaze for serving.

Step 6

Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 7

To assemble, divide rice among four bowls. Top with roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Add sliced chicken. Drizzle with any remaining glaze. Garnish with pecans, cranberries, and parsley. Serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best results, use a large enough baking sheet so the vegetables are in a single layer; this ensures they roast and caramelize rather than steam. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is key to preventing the thinner parts from drying out while the thicker parts cook. Always use a meat thermometer to pull the chicken once it hits 165°F.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This bowl is highly adaptable. You can swap brown rice for quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice depending on your dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken for roasted chickpeas or firm tofu. If you don't have dietary restrictions, a sprinkle of goat cheese or feta adds a lovely creamy finish.

Serviervorschläge

To serve, arrange the components beautifully in a wide bowl and don't skip the toppings—the pecans provide a necessary crunch while the cranberries add a pop of tartness. Serve any extra glaze in a small ramekin on the side for those who want an extra boost of flavor. This dish pairs excellently with a crisp autumn salad or a glass of dry white wine.

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These Maple Dijon Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls are a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create a deeply satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you are prepping for the week ahead or sitting down for a family dinner, these bowls are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinate chicken breasts briefly in the maple Dijon glaze before cooking to enhance the flavor. Season with salt and pepper evenly for a balanced taste.

→ What is the best way to roast sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts?

Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional cinnamon, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until caramelized and tender, stirring once midway.

→ Can I use different grains for the base?

Yes, brown or wild rice are great, but quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice also work well to suit dietary preferences.

→ How do I get a crunchy topping texture?

Lightly toast pecans before adding as a topping to bring a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor contrast to the bowl.

→ Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with roasted chickpeas or tofu to maintain protein content while keeping the dish hearty and flavorful.