If you’re craving a meal that feels both cozy and vibrant, the Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls are exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender grilled chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon sauce, paired with perfectly roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts that add a hearty, earthy touch. Layered over nutty brown or wild rice, and finished with a drizzle of light maple mustard and optional crunchy pecans or tart cranberries, these bowls deliver a symphony of flavors and textures that sing comfort and nourishment in every bite.

Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping things simple is the secret here. Each ingredient in the Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls plays a starring role, whether it’s adding sweetness, tang, warmth, or crunch. These essentials come together effortlessly for a dish that’s balanced, colorful, and packed with wholesome goodness.

Chicken breast: The lean protein foundation that soaks up the maple Dijon glaze beautifully.
Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and helps create that irresistible glaze.
Dijon mustard: Brings a punch of tang and depth to the glaze and sauce.
Sweet potatoes: Roasted until caramelized, for a luscious, naturally sweet side.
Brussels sprouts: Add a slightly bitter, savory element that balances the dish.
Olive oil: Helps roast the vegetables to perfection and adds healthy fat.
Brown or wild rice: The hearty base that makes this dish filling and wholesome.
Cinnamon and rosemary (optional): Sprinkled on veggies for an extra cozy, fall-inspired flavor.
Chopped pecans (optional): For a delightful crunch and nutty finish.
Dried cranberries (optional): Offer a tart contrast that brightens the bowl.

How to Make Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by creating the signature maple Dijon glaze. Mix together pure maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard until smoothly combined. Brush this glaze generously over each chicken breast, then grill or pan-sear on medium heat. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown on the outside and completely cooked through, absorbing that sweet and tangy flavor into every bite.

Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts

Cube the sweet potatoes and halve the Brussels sprouts to ensure even roasting. Toss them well with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and if you’re feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of cinnamon and rosemary for an added layer of warm, herbal depth. Spread the veggies in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until tender and caramelized around the edges.

Step 3: Cook Your Rice

While the veggies roast, cook your choice of brown or wild rice according to the package instructions. Both provide a nutty, chewy texture that perfectly complements the soft roasted vegetables and the juicy chicken.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Begin layering your bowl with a generous scoop of rice as the base. Next, add slices of the glazed maple Dijon chicken and arrange the roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts on top. The colors alone are enough to make your mouth water.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Drizzle a light maple mustard sauce over the assembled bowl to enhance that sweet and tangy profile. For texture and bursts of flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or dried cranberries on top. These optional toppings add an irresistible crunch and tart contrast that takes the Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls to the next level of deliciousness.

How to Serve Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme can brighten the bowl visually and flavor-wise. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the roasted veggies and chicken just before serving. The optional pecans and cranberries add beauty and a burst of texture that makes every spoonful exciting.

Side Dishes

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully for freshness. Steamed or sautéed greens like kale or spinach can add extra nutrients and a pop of color on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Use shallow bowls or wide plates to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of your Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls. For a fun twist, serve the ingredients deconstructed on a platter, letting everyone build their own bowls. Adding edible flowers or lemon wedges can instantly elevate the presentation for a special meal or gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken, roasted vegetables, and rice in separate airtight containers in the fridge to maintain their individual flavors and textures. They will keep fresh for about 3 to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy this wholesome meal again or incorporate into quick lunches.

Freezing

The cooked chicken and roasted vegetables freeze well, but for best quality, freeze them separately from the rice. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. To keep veggies from drying out, cover or sprinkle with a little water before reheating. Adding a fresh drizzle of maple mustard sauce after reheating brings back the original vibrancy and taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier, slightly more flavorful result. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. The maple Dijon glaze works beautifully with both cuts.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with hearty roasted chickpeas or grilled tofu glazed with the maple Dijon sauce. This swap keeps the delicious flavor profile while making it vegetarian-friendly.

Can I prepare this recipe without roasting the vegetables?

While roasting enhances the caramelization and depth of flavor, you can also sauté the sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts until tender. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious!

What rice alternatives work well for Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls?

Quinoa, farro, or even cauliflower rice are fantastic alternatives depending on your dietary preferences. Each brings a unique texture that pairs nicely with the glazed chicken and roasted veggies.

How long can I marinate the chicken in the maple Dijon glaze?

Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate well, but you can also marinate for up to 4 hours in the fridge to intensify the taste. Avoid marinating overnight as the acidity in Dijon mustard may start to break down the texture too much.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, the Maple Dijon Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls are a fantastic choice. The harmony between sweet, savory, and tangy flavors wrapped up in wholesome ingredients makes it perfect for any night of the week. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite in your meal rotation!