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This dish with maple and Dijon chicken plus roasted veggies is a great cozy meal for any night. The sweet maple syrup pairs with the tangy mustard to make the chicken pop. Roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts bring warm, tasty vibes. It’s a healthy meal that leaves you feeling good and full.
I started fixing this when I wanted something healthy but comforting. It quickly became my go-to meal for easy and a bit fancy.
What You Need
- Two skinless chicken breasts: lean meat that cooks quickly
- Dijon mustard: gives a tang to balance the sweetness
- Sweet potatoes: soft and sweet when roasted
- Brown or wild rice: a nutty, wholesome side to catch all the juices
- Brussels sprouts: add crispness and a bit of bitterness
- Maple syrup: natural sweetener for glaze and caramelization
- Salt and pepper: to bring all flavors together
- Olive oil: helps the veggies roast to tender and golden
- Cinnamon and rosemary: optional but warm up the veggies nicely
- Chopped pecans or dried cranberries: optional crunch and flavor contrast
- Pick firm Brussels sprouts with bright leaves and sweet potatoes without soft spots: to make sure produce is good
How To Fix It
- Roast Vegetables:
- Set the oven to 400°F. Cut sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes so they cook evenly. Trim off any bad leaves and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss veggies with olive oil, salt, and if you like, a bit of cinnamon and rosemary. Spread them on a baking sheet in one layer and roast for about 25 to 30 minutes till veggies are tender and a bit crisp on edges.
- Cook Rice:
- While veggies cook, prepare the rice following the package instructions. Fluff with a fork once done so it stays light.
- Prepare Chicken:
- Mix maple syrup and Dijon mustard and brush it over the chicken breasts. Cook chicken in a skillet or grill pan on medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side until it’s golden and cooked through. The glaze will thicken and create a tasty crust.
- Put It Together:
- Serve the rice on plates or bowls. Slice the chicken and place it on the rice. Add roasted veggies on the side.
- Finish Up:
- Drizzle a bit more of the maple-Dijon glaze on the chicken and veggies. Add pecans or dried cranberries if you want a sweet, crunchy touch.
The glaze on the chicken is my favorite part. I usually make extra so I can add more on top when serving. This meal feels like cozy fall nights, when family gathers around and shares stories with something simple but made with love.
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. When warming up, cover with a damp paper towel to keep chicken juicy. Heat veggies gently so they don’t burn. Rice might dry out but adding a splash of water while reheating helps.
Switch It Up
If you want, swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier dark meat. Try butternut squash in place of sweet potatoes for a different sweet taste and texture. Use mustard like whole grain or spicy brown to change the flavor a bit. You can also swap out Brussels sprouts for kale or green beans if you don’t love them.
Serving Suggestions
Go fresh with a green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. Put a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on the side if you want something creamy. Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color and flavor.
This meal nails an easy, tasty weeknight dinner that’s also a little special. The sweet glaze and roasting tricks really lift basic ingredients into something great.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Which chicken cut should I use here?
Boneless, skinless breasts are best because they cook evenly and soak up that maple Dijon glaze nicely.
- → Can I swap out the veggies for something else?
Sure thing. You can switch sweet potatoes for carrots or parsnips, and green beans or asparagus work instead of Brussels sprouts.
- → Any tips to keep chicken juicy on the grill?
Try marinating the chicken briefly in the glaze and grill it over medium heat just until done. Don’t overcook it.
- → Why add cinnamon and rosemary to the veggies?
They bring warm, pleasant aromas that pair nicely with the veggies’ natural sweetness and boost the flavor.
- → Can I use other rice types with this?
Brown and wild rice are great for their flavor and chew, but white rice or quinoa work too if you like.
- → Do I really need to use pecans or dried cranberries?
Not mandatory. They add a nice crunch and sweet touch but you can skip them without changing the taste much.