If you are craving a balanced, comforting meal that still feels fresh and nourishing, fresh maple Dijon chicken sweet potato bowls are an excellent choice. This recipe combines tender chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, and a sweet-savory maple Dijon sauce into a simple bowl meal that works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for meal prep. Every bite delivers warmth, flavor, and wholesome ingredients you can feel good about serving.
Why You’ll Love This Maple Dijon Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe
These bowls hit the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The maple syrup adds gentle sweetness, while Dijon mustard brings brightness and depth. Roasted sweet potatoes provide natural caramelization and heartiness, making the meal satisfying without being heavy.
This recipe is easy to prepare, uses everyday ingredients, and is highly customizable. You can serve it over grains, greens, or enjoy it on its own. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep lunches throughout the week.
Ingredients for Maple Dijon Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls
Maple Dijon Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Bowl Add-Ins
- Cooked rice or quinoa
- Baby spinach or mixed greens
- Avocado slices
- Chopped parsley or green onions
Ingredient Notes
Use pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup for the best flavor. Dijon mustard provides a smooth tang, but whole-grain mustard can be used for extra texture.
Chicken thighs stay especially juicy, but chicken breasts also work well if you prefer leaner meat. Sweet potatoes should be cut into even-sized cubes so they roast evenly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Maple Dijon Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the cubed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then toss to coat evenly. Spread them out in a single layer for even roasting.
Step 3: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Roast the sweet potatoes for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they begin to soften and caramelize around the edges.
Step 4: Prepare the Chicken
While the sweet potatoes roast, place the chicken in a bowl or on a cutting board. Pour about half of the maple Dijon sauce over the chicken and toss until well coated.
Step 5: Roast the Chicken
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and push the sweet potatoes to one side. Add the chicken to the other side of the pan. Return to the oven and roast for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Step 6: Slice and Assemble
Remove the pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Assemble bowls by adding sweet potatoes, chicken, and any optional grains or greens. Drizzle with the remaining maple Dijon sauce if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cut sweet potatoes evenly to ensure uniform roasting.
- Do not overcrowd the pan, or the vegetables will steam instead of roast.
- Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Taste the sauce and adjust sweetness or tang before roasting.
Flavor Variations
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for gentle heat.
- Toss Brussels sprouts or broccoli onto the pan with the sweet potatoes.
- Use honey instead of maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the finished bowls.
- Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve maple Dijon chicken sweet potato bowls warm for a cozy dinner or chilled slightly for meal prep lunches. They pair well with a simple side salad or steamed green beans. For a heartier meal, serve over brown rice or quinoa. For a lighter option, use a base of mixed greens.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. These bowls reheat well in the microwave or on the stovetop.
For freezing, store the chicken and sweet potatoes separately for best texture. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
Values are estimates and will vary depending on portions and add-ins.
FAQ About Maple Dijon Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls
Can I make these bowls ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep. Store individual portions in containers and reheat as needed throughout the week.
What type of mustard works best?
Dijon mustard is recommended for its smooth texture and balanced tang, but whole-grain mustard can be used if you prefer a little texture.
Can I use another protein?
Yes, turkey breast or tofu work well with the same maple Dijon sauce. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Are these bowls gluten free?
Yes, the core recipe is naturally gluten free. Just be sure your mustard is labeled gluten free and choose gluten-free grains if adding them.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
Use chicken breast, reduce the amount of maple syrup slightly, and serve over greens instead of grains.
Fresh Maple Dijon Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- whisk
- baking sheet
- parchment paper optional for easy cleanup
- oven
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- 0.5 tsp black pepper, divided
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- cooked rice or quinoa (optional)
- baby spinach or mixed greens (optional)
- avocado slices (optional)
- chopped parsley or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, paprika, half the salt, and half the black pepper until smooth.
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss cubed sweet potatoes with remaining olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
- Roast sweet potatoes for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until beginning to soften and caramelize.
- Toss chicken with about half of the maple Dijon sauce until evenly coated.
- Push sweet potatoes to one side of the pan and add chicken to the other side. Roast for 15–20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender.
- Let chicken rest briefly, then slice. Assemble bowls with sweet potatoes, chicken, and optional grains or greens. Drizzle with remaining sauce if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Fresh maple Dijon chicken sweet potato bowls are a satisfying, flavorful meal that feels both nourishing and comforting. With roasted vegetables, juicy chicken, and a simple homemade sauce, this recipe proves that wholesome food does not have to be complicated. Whether you are cooking for your family or prepping lunches for the week, these bowls are a reliable, delicious choice.
