Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls

Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls are a comforting meal featuring juicy marinated chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, hearty grains, and a drizzle of sweet-tangy maple Dijon dressing, all layered together in one nourishing bowl.

As the scent of roasting sweet potatoes mingles with the golden, zesty glaze on the chicken, the kitchen feels especially warm each bite offers a cozy balance of crisp, tender, and just a hint of nutty crunch. I first made these on a blustery weeknight when I craved something that tasted like home but needed it to be simple, and this bowl delivered on both counts. What sets this recipe apart is how it combines truly easy steps with those restaurant-worthy flavors plus, it’s so flexible for whatever you have on hand. I can’t wait for you to taste all that golden, cozy goodness let’s build these bowls together!

Why These Bowls Feel Like Home

• Comfort in Every Bite: The blend of maple and Dijon wraps the chicken in a warm, familiar hug, balancing sweet and tangy in a way that instantly soothes.
• Honest, Cozy Textures: With juicy, crisp-edged chicken and caramelized sweet potatoes, every forkful delivers the kind of golden, savory-sweet comfort that just feels right on a chilly evening.
• Simple and Supportive: These bowls are a true weeknight hero easy to prep ahead, flexible with swaps, and inviting whether you’re meal-prepping for yourself or serving loved ones.
• Uplifting and Approachable: There’s nothing fussy here just feel-good food, made with love and ingredients you probably have on hand, ready to bring a little joy to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken thighs or breasts
  Choose between juicy thighs or classic chicken breasts for a centerpiece that stays tender and flavorful after marinating.
• Dijon mustard & maple syrup
  The dream team for that sweet-tangy glaze Dijon brings the mellow heat while maple syrup adds earthy caramel notes.
• Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
  A splash of brightness lifts up every bite and helps to tenderize the meat.
• Sweet potatoes
  Roasted until their edges are caramelized and crisp, these add a cozy, naturally sweet base to your bowl.
• Olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper
  Pantry essentials that infuse both chicken and potatoes with warmth and gentle spice.
• Cooked quinoa or brown rice
  Hearty grains soak up the dressing and make your bowl deliciously satisfying.
• Greens
  Baby spinach or kale lends a leafy, fresh crunch that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Toasted pecans or walnuts
  A sprinkle of toasted nuts gives the bowl a buttery crunch and rustic, nutty aroma.
• Optional toppings
  Goat cheese crumbles, dried cranberries, or avocado slices for extra creamy, tangy, or fruity goodness.
• Easy swaps
  Sub in whatever grains, greens, or nuts you have on hand this bowl is wonderfully flexible!

How to Make Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls

1. Marinate the Chicken: Whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, garlic, vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Tuck the chicken into this golden bath, coating every inch for deep flavor. Let it soak while you prepare the sweet potatoes for real tenderness later.
2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and a fresh grind of pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast until the edges are caramelized and the centers turn creamy your kitchen will smell like cozy, autumn sunshine!

3. Cook the Chicken: Sear the marinated chicken in a skillet or grill pan until it’s browned with a light glaze, flipping once for even color. Let it rest before slicing so each bite stays juicy and flavorful.
4. Assemble Your Bowls: Spoon cooked quinoa or brown rice into deep bowls. Layer with roasted sweet potatoes, slices of that glistening chicken, and a handful of fresh greens. Sprinkle crunchy toasted pecans or walnuts across the top.

5. Finish and Serve: Drizzle everything with a quick maple-Dijon dressing. Add toppings like creamy goat cheese, dried cranberries, or buttery avocado slices. For another savory bowl idea, check out the Grilled Lemon Chicken Bowl!

Tips for the Best Results

• Crispy chicken secrets: Pat your chicken dry before marinating, and don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking. Let the pieces develop those irresistible golden edges think juicy inside, just-crisp outside.
• Perfectly caramelized sweet potatoes: Spread the cubes in a single layer with space between. This helps every piece get those sweet, golden edges instead of steaming.
• Balancing flavors in every bite: Layer your bowls with contrasting textures creamy avocado, crunchy nuts, soft quinoa, and tangy goat cheese. Every forkful should be a cozy mix of sweet, savory, and a little zing.
• Make-ahead magic: Prep the chicken and sweet potatoes the night before for easy assembly on busy days. Even the maple-Dijon dressing stays fresh for a few days in the fridge.
• Quick cleanup tip: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and use one bowl for your vinaigrette to save on dishes because the only thing better than dinner is an easy cleanup. For more inspiration, check out my Creamy Garlic Chicken.

Variations & Easy Swaps

Switch up the greens: Any tender green works beautifully here try baby arugula, shredded romaine, or peppery watercress for a different flavor snap.

Pick your favorite grain: Don’t have quinoa or brown rice? Farro, couscous, or even cauliflower rice give these bowls a fun new foundation, depending on your mood.

Load up the roasted veggies: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers add lovely caramelized edges and make the bowl heartier more color, more cozy.

Go vegetarian or dairy-free: Swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas or cubes of tofu tossed in the same marinade. Skip the goat cheese or use your favorite plant-based alternative.

Try other proteins: Maple-Dijon flavors love salmon, shrimp, or even leftover rotisserie chicken for ultra-easy prep. For more inspiration, check out this Mexican Chicken Bowl for easy protein swap ideas!

Mix up the toppings: Pecans, sunflower seeds, roasted pumpkin seeds, or sliced avocado are all fair game.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Fridge Storage: Store the Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keeping dressing and crunchy toppings separate helps maintain their texture and freshness.
• Freezer-Friendly Components: Chicken, rice or quinoa, and roasted sweet potatoes all freeze beautifully, making this recipe a make-ahead dream. Portion out cooled components and place in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to two months; just skip freezing greens and delicate toppings.
• Easy Reheating: To reheat, warm the bowl (minus greens and toppings) in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add fresh spinach, kale, and toppings after reheating for the best flavor and crunch.
• Meal Prep Magic: These bowls are perfect for preparing in advance and enjoying throughout the week. For more cozy sweet potato inspiration, check out this Sweet Potato Casserole recipe!

How to Serve These Bowls

• Create a cozy family dinner: Set these bowls out family-style, where everyone can build their own with plenty of extra toppings and dressings on the side. The mix of roasted sweet potatoes, chicken, and greens makes it a colorful centerpiece for a laid-back, nourishing meal.
• Perfect for meal prep lunches: Layer everything in airtight containers, keeping creamy dressings and extra toppings like goat cheese or avocado on the side until mealtime. The cozy flavors just get better as they meld in the fridge.
• Dress it up or down: Amp up the comfort with a sprinkle of toasted nuts, a handful of dried cranberries, and a drizzle of homemade maple-Dijon vinaigrette. For extra homey vibes, pair with a simple side like Roasted Fingerling Potatoes.
• Add warm comfort twists: Spoon a bit of creamy goat cheese on top or tuck in a slice of buttery avocado for extra richness. These little touches make each bowl feel special and inviting for any gathering.

Nessy

Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls

These comforting bowls feature juicy Maple Dijon chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, and hearty grains topped with greens and crunchy toasted nuts. The sweet, tangy, and savory flavors are deeply satisfying, cozy, and perfect for meal prep or family dinners any night of the week.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 2 bowls

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
• 1 cup baby spinach or kale
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
• Optional toppings: goat cheese crumbles, dried cranberries, or avocado slices

Equipment

• bowl for marinating chicken
• whisk for mixing marinade and dressing
• baking sheet for roasting sweet potatoes
• skillet or grill pan for cooking chicken
• knife for slicing chicken and prepping ingredients

Method

 

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Place chicken breasts in the marinade, coating well. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the fridge to develop flavor and tenderness.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Spread in a single layer and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until potatoes are golden, tender, and caramelized.
3. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste occasionally with leftover marinade to create a flavorful glaze. Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
4. Divide cooked quinoa or brown rice evenly between two large bowls. Top each bowl with roasted sweet potatoes, sliced Maple Dijon chicken, and a handful of baby spinach or kale. Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nutrition.
5. Optional: Whisk together 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp maple syrup, and a squeeze of lemon juice to create a quick dressing. Drizzle over the bowls and add optional toppings like goat cheese crumbles, dried cranberries, or avocado slices. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 54gProtein: 38gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 790mgPotassium: 980mgFiber: 6gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 9900IUVitamin C: 36mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating for the crispiest results. Spread sweet potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure caramelization. These bowls are flexible—swap grains, greens, or nuts based on what you have. The recipe is great for meal prep and stores well. For variations, try adding roasted veggies, changing up the protein, or incorporating different toppings like goat cheese, dried cranberries, or avocado. For dairy-free or vegetarian options, use chickpeas or tofu and plant-based cheese.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Can I make Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate and cook the chicken and roast the sweet potatoes in advance. Store each component separately in the fridge. When it’s time to eat, quickly assemble and add your fresh greens and toppings everything tastes just as warm and comforting, even on the busiest nights.

What are some good substitute grains if I don’t have quinoa or rice?

No worries if the grain shelf looks a little bare! Farro, couscous, bulgur, or even cauliflower rice can step in beautifully. Each brings its own cozy texture farro is chewy and hearty, while cauliflower rice is light. Just use what you have and enjoy that homey flexibility.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Definitely! Salmon, shrimp, or even crispy tofu soak up those maple-Dijon flavors in the happiest way. If you’ve got leftover roast chicken or rotisserie, that’s a speedy shortcut too. The marinade hugs whatever you choose, making it easy to keep dinnertime stress-free.

How can I keep the sweet potatoes crispy for leftovers?

Let the sweet potato cubes cool completely before sealing them in a container. When you’re ready to reheat, pop them on a baking sheet in a hot oven for a few minutes to revive those golden, caramelized edges. It’s a tiny step that brings back all that irresistible, cozy crispness.