Get ready to impress your family with my Sheet Pan Maple Roasted Chicken and Sweet Potatoes dish! This easy recipe combines juicy chicken thighs and sweet, tender potatoes, all drizzled with a sweet maple glaze. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. With just one pan to clean, this meal makes cooking and cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps for this tasty treat!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Sheet Pan Meal
– 4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin-on
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Flavorful Marinade Components
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
– 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is key for roasting. A hot oven helps the chicken and sweet potatoes cook evenly.
2. Mixing the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mix will give your chicken a sweet and spicy flavor.
Chicken and Sweet Potato Preparation
1. Coating the sweet potatoes: Take a large bowl and add your diced sweet potatoes. If you’re using Brussels sprouts, add them too. Pour in half of the maple marinade and drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over the sweet potatoes. Toss gently until all pieces are coated well.
2. Arranging on the baking sheet: On a large baking sheet, place the chicken thighs on one side. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken. Season it with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of garlic powder. Spread the sweet potato mixture on the other side of the baking sheet for even roasting.
Cooking and Final Touches
1. Baking instructions: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The sweet potatoes should be tender and caramelized.
2. Broiling for crispiness: For added crispiness, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on the chicken to avoid burning.
After cooking, let your dish rest for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors come together. Enjoy your tasty sheet pan meal!
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavors
To boost the taste of your chicken, consider adding extra spices. You can use rosemary or thyme for a fresh touch. For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper.
To get that perfect crispy skin, make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. Also, let the chicken rest before serving. This keeps the juices inside.
Cooking Techniques
Baking chicken and veggies on a sheet pan is easy and fun. Arrange the chicken in a single layer. This helps it cook evenly. Spread the sweet potatoes out too. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken. If the juices run clear, it’s ready.
Serving Suggestions
For a cozy look, serve the dish right from the pan. You can also place it on a nice serving platter for a fancier feel. Drizzle a little extra maple syrup over the chicken just before serving. This adds sweetness and makes it look great.
Consider pairing this dish with a simple salad or steamed green beans. These sides balance the sweet flavors and add freshness to your meal.

Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the protein in this dish. Try using bone-in chicken breasts instead of thighs. If you want a lighter option, use turkey thighs. If you prefer a meat-free meal, roasted chickpeas or tofu work well, too.
For vegetables, sweet potatoes are great, but you can mix in others. Carrots add sweetness and color. Cauliflower florets bring a nice texture. Broccoli can also be a tasty addition.
Flavor Profile Adjustments
If you want a sweeter dish, add more maple syrup. For a savory twist, reduce the maple syrup and add balsamic vinegar instead. You can also play with spices. Add cayenne pepper for heat or extra garlic for depth.
Herbs can brighten the flavor. Fresh thyme or rosemary adds nice notes to the chicken. You can also sprinkle fresh basil or cilantro just before serving for that pop of freshness.
Dietary Considerations
This dish can easily fit into a gluten-free diet. Just ensure your Dijon mustard is gluten-free. Most brands are safe, but check the label for any hidden gluten.
For those on a low-carb diet, skip the sweet potatoes and use zucchini or bell peppers instead. They roast well and keep the dish colorful and tasty.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh. You can refrigerate it for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This prevents freezer burn and keeps flavors intact.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use an oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and sweet potatoes in a baking dish. Cover with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. If using a microwave, place portions on a safe plate. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This helps keep the texture and flavor.
Shelf Life of Ingredients
In the fridge, this dish lasts about four days. After that, it may spoil. Look for changes in color or smell. If the chicken has a slimy texture, throw it away. Sweet potatoes should remain firm and not mushy. Always trust your senses to guide you on freshness.
FAQs
How do I make the chicken extra crispy?
To make your chicken skin crispy, focus on a few key steps. First, start with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. The bones help keep the meat juicy. Pat the skin dry with paper towels before cooking. This removes excess moisture. Next, season the skin with salt. Salt draws out moisture and helps crisp the skin. Finally, broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking. This adds a great crunch.
Can I use boneless chicken instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken. However, it will change the cooking time. Boneless pieces cook faster than bone-in thighs. Check the chicken at 25 minutes. If it reaches 165°F (75°C), it is done. The texture may also differ. Boneless chicken can be less juicy but still tasty. Adjust your cooking time based on the size of the pieces.
What else can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with several sides. Here are some ideas:
– Steamed green beans: They add a fresh crunch.
– Quinoa or rice: These grains soak up the flavors.
– Simple salad: A light salad balances the meal.
– Crusty bread: Perfect for mopping up juices.
Feel free to mix and match!
This meal combines tasty chicken thighs, sweet potatoes, and a flavorful marinade. You learned ways to enhance flavors and tried new cooking methods. Variations let you customize the dish to fit your needs.
Storing and reheating tips help you enjoy leftovers without losing taste. With these steps, you can create a delicious sheet pan meal any night. Try this recipe and make it your own!
