If you’re craving a vibrant, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, these Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls are exactly what you need. Combining tender grilled chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy maple-Dijon sauce, caramelized roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, and a cozy bed of nutty brown or wild rice, this dish is a fall-inspired dream come true. Each bite bursts with comforting flavors and satisfying textures, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both wholesome and irresistibly delicious.

Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls lies in their simplicity and vibrant flavors. Every ingredient plays a key role, from the naturally sweet syrup and tangy mustard in the glaze, to the earthy warmth of roasted vegetables, creating a perfectly balanced bowl filled with color, texture, and soul.

Chicken breast: Choose skinless, boneless breasts for quick, even cooking and a lean protein base.
Maple syrup: Adds rich, natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken glaze.
Dijon mustard: Brings a sharp, tangy kick that perfectly complements the sweetness of the maple.
Sweet potatoes: Cubed and roasted for a tender, caramelized bite with a hint of earthiness.
Brussels sprouts: Halved and roasted until crispy on the edges, adding a wonderful depth and crunch.
Olive oil: Helps the veggies roast to golden perfection while enhancing their natural flavors.
Cinnamon and rosemary (optional): These warm spices add a seasonal touch that elevates the roasted veggies to something truly special.
Brown or wild rice: Serves as a hearty, nutty base that absorbs the flavors and ties the bowl together.
Chopped pecans or dried cranberries (optional): For a pop of crunch and sweetness that perfectly rounds out the dish.

How to Make Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by making the glaze: whisk together maple syrup and Dijon mustard until smooth. Grill or pan-sear the chicken breasts over medium heat, brushing them generously with your maple-Dijon glaze. Cook until each side is golden brown and the chicken is completely cooked through, allowing that glaze to form a glossy, irresistible coating. This step delivers juicy, flavorful chicken that’s the star of the bowl.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

While the chicken cooks, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cube the sweet potatoes and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss them with olive oil, salt, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of cinnamon and rosemary. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through. The veggies will emerge tender with crispy edges, contributing a beautiful balance of sweet and savory notes.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Prepare your brown or wild rice according to package instructions. The rice acts as a warm, wholesome base for the dish, soaking up the flavors from the chicken and roasted veggies while adding a satisfying nutty flavor and chewy texture.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Build your bowl by starting with a scoop of fluffy rice, then layering on the sliced maple-Dijon glazed chicken and the glistening roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Finish by drizzling a bit of the maple mustard sauce over the top for extra glaze and brighten the plate with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or dried cranberries if you like. This layering creates a gorgeous, mouth-watering presentation and satisfies every craving in one bowl!

How to Serve Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls

Garnishes

Feel free to jazz up your Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls with crunchy chopped pecans—adding a lovely texture contrast—or scatter sweet dried cranberries for bursts of fruitiness that cut through the savory richness beautifully. Fresh parsley or a few thinly sliced green onions can also add a fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens the bowl visually and flavorfully.

Side Dishes

While the bowl itself is a complete, hearty meal, pairing it with a simple mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted garlic cauliflower can add extra freshness and variety. If you want to keep the fall vibe going, a warm butternut squash soup on the side makes an excellent cozy companion for this dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls into a festive centerpiece by using deep ceramic bowls that highlight the vibrant colors of the roasted vegetables and glistening chicken. Layer ingredients artfully instead of mixing, so every scoop delivers contrasting colors and textures. For a twist, serve everything on a large platter for family-style sharing, letting guests build their own perfect bowls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover components of your Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls separately stored in airtight containers to maintain their textures—especially the roasted veggies and chicken. This way, the rice won’t get mushy and the veggies won’t turn soggy. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to enjoy later with the same delicious flavors.

Freezing

If you want to save these bowls for a longer time, freeze cooked chicken and roasted vegetables in separate freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Rice freezes well too, but be sure to cool everything completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals that alter texture. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the caramelized glaze on the chicken and crisp edges of the veggies. If microwaving, add a tiny splash of water to the rice to keep it moist and cover loosely, reheating in short intervals to avoid overcooking. Finish with a fresh drizzle of maple mustard sauce to brighten everything back up.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to your Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through and deliciously tender.

What if I don’t have Brussels sprouts? What can I substitute?

Green beans, asparagus, or even broccoli make fantastic substitutes. Roast them the same way with olive oil and your chosen spices for a similar texture and complementary flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of these bowls?

Yes! Swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas or grilled tofu tossed in the same maple-Dijon glaze. This creates a hearty, flavorful vegetarian option that still hits all those cozy, fall-inspired notes.

How spicy is the maple-Dijon glaze?

The glaze carries a gentle tanginess with just a hint of sharpness from the Dijon mustard, but it’s not spicy hot. You can add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick if you like spice in your meals.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

Definitely! Roasted veggies and cooked rice can be prepped a day ahead, and chicken can be marinated in the maple-Dijon glaze overnight for even deeper flavor. This makes assembly quick and stress-free when you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Dijon Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls are truly one of those dishes that bring comfort, nourishment, and joy all at once. They’re easy to make, packed with flavors that celebrate the best of fall, and versatile enough to adapt to your pantry and preferences. I hope you love making and sharing this recipe as much as I do—it’s a wonderful way to infuse your dinner with warmth and happiness any night of the week.