Mouthwatering Baked Maple Dijon Chicken: The Best Baked Chicken In 40 Minutes!

Updated June 2025: This recipe has been rewritten and retested by Chef Cory using real ingredients. Photos are currently being updated with real kitchen photography as part of our full site refresh.

Juicy Baked Maple Dijon Chicken That Everyone Will Crave

This Maple Dijon Chicken is a flavor-packed, easy-to-follow baked chicken recipe that combines juicy chicken breasts, tangy Dijon mustard, and sweet maple syrup. Ready in just about 40 minutes, it’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and comforting.

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Why Maple Dijon Chicken Should Be Your Next Dinner

This maple Dijon chicken is sweet, savory, and baked until golden and juicy.

The sauce is a quick mix of pure maple syrup, tangy Dijon mustard, and a touch of garlic — simple ingredients that pack real flavor.

I use boneless chicken breasts, seared briefly for color, then baked until tender and glazed.

It’s weeknight-easy but tastes like something you’d serve with candles lit. Sweet heat never looked so good.

Seasonal Comfort with a Chef’s Touch

Maple Dijon Chicken isn’t just delicious; it captures the essence of autumn in every bite.

As a chef who loves supporting local farmers, this recipe highlights seasonal ingredients that are easy to source fresh.

Whether you’re cooking for the family, impressing dinner guests, or meal prepping for the week, this chicken recipe will hit all the right notes.

Healthy Meets Delicious

Not only is this dish tasty—it’s healthy too! High in protein and loaded with nutrients from sweet potatoes and pecans, it’s a balanced meal that feels indulgent but won’t derail your healthy eating goals.

Key Ingredients That Shine

• Chicken Breasts – Packed with lean protein, helping you stay full and satisfied.
• Pure Maple Syrup – Natural sweetener rich in antioxidants and minerals, adding depth without refined sugars.
• Fresh Thyme – Adds freshness and an aromatic punch that elevates the dish naturally.

Why are Chicken Breasts preferred over Chicken Thighs?

Chicken Breast is the preferred choice for this recipe over chicken breast for several reasons, each contributing to a more flavorful and satisfying outcome.

1. Leaner Option: Chicken breasts are generally leaner than chicken thighs.

They have less fat content and fewer calories, making them a popular choice for healthier protein sources.

2. Balanced Flavors: The Baked Maple Dijon Chicken recipe combines Dijon mustard and maple syrup for the marinade.

Chicken breasts provide a neutral canvas for these flavors to shine without overpowering the dish. The milder flavor of chicken breasts complements the tangy and sweet notes of the marinade.

3. Tender and Quick Cooking: Chicken breasts have a more tender and delicate texture when cooked properly.

They also cook relatively quickly, which aligns well with the easy and quick nature of the recipe.

4. Health Conscious: Fall is often associated with comfort foods, and using lean chicken breasts adds a healthier aspect to the meal.

It’s a way to enjoy the comforting flavors of fall without compromising on nutritional goals.

5. Versatility: Chicken breasts are versatile and work well with various flavors and ingredients.

They can absorb marinades and sauces effectively, allowing the maple Dijon mixture to infuse into the meat for a delicious outcome.

IF you prefer chicken thighs for their richer flavor and tenderness, you can certainly adapt the recipe to use them. Just be aware that the cooking time and overall flavor balance might need to be adjusted accordingly. The choice between chicken breasts and thighs often comes from personal preference and dietary considerations.

Grab Everything you Need

Before starting the Baked Maple Dijon Chicken Breast Recipe with Sweet Potato Mash and Toasted Pecans, gathering the necessary tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking process is helpful.

1. Baking Dish or Baking Sheet: For baking the chicken breasts.
2. Mixing Bowls: For preparing the maple Dijon marinade and the sweet potato mash.
3. Whisk: To combine the marinade ingredients.
4. Potato Masher or Fork: For mashing the sweet potatoes.
5. Knife: For peeling and cutting the sweet potatoes and other ingredients.
6. Cutting Board: To prepare and chop ingredients.
7. Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
8. Cooking Brush or Spoon: To brush the maple Dijon marinade onto the chicken breasts.
9. Saucepan (Optional): For toasting the pecans.
10. Skillet (Optional): If you’re making the sautéed green beans from a previous version of the recipe.
11. Oven Mitts: For handling hot baking dishes or pans.
12. Food Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken for doneness.
13. Serving Plates: For presenting the final dish.

These essential tools will help you prepare the recipe efficiently and successfully, ensuring you can enjoy the delicious Roasted Bone-In Chicken with Butternut Squash, Herbs, and Lemon easily.

Elevate Your Baked Maple Dijon Chicken Breast Recipe with Fresh Herbs

Adding fresh herbs to the Baked Maple Dijon Chicken Breast Recipe with Autumn-Spiced Sweet Potato Mash can elevate the recipe by infusing it with additional flavor, freshness, and aromatic complexity. Fresh herbs can transform a dish, enhancing its overall taste and making it even more appealing.

1. Enhanced Aromatics: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, or parsley can release delightful aromas when cooked or garnished. These aromatics not only make the dish more inviting but also stimulate the senses, enhancing the overall dining experience.
2. Balanced Flavors: Herbs can add a balancing effect to the dish. For example, if the maple Dijon chicken marinade has sweet and tangy notes, adding fresh herbs can provide a grounding earthiness or a hint of bitterness, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
3. Brightened Appearance: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and vibrancy to the dish, making it visually more appealing. The green hues of the herbs against the warm tones of the chicken and sweet potatoes create a visually striking presentation.
4. Customization: Different herbs bring different flavor profiles. For instance, rosemary offers a piney and aromatic note, while thyme adds earthiness. You can choose herbs that resonate with your personal preferences or that highlight the fall season.
5. Textural Complexity: Fresh herbs can provide a textural contrast to the dish, especially when used as a garnish. They can introduce a slight crunch or a burst of freshness against the creamy sweet potato mash and tender chicken.
6. Seasonal Connection: Incorporating herbs that are commonly associated with the fall season, such as sage and thyme, can create a stronger connection to the flavors and aromas of autumn.

Know Your Veggies

Cooking with Sweet potatoes offers several health benefits, and they make for a fantastic addition to this Baked Maple Dijon Chicken Breast Recipe

Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes:

1. Nutrient-Rich: Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients contribute to overall health, immune function, and digestion.
2. Low Glycemic Index: Despite their natural sweetness, sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index compared to regular white potatoes. This means they have a slower impact on blood sugar levels, making them a good option for those concerned about blood sugar control.
3. Rich in Antioxidants: The vibrant orange color of sweet potatoes comes from beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports eye health and has anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidants also help protect cells from damage.
4. Digestive Health: The fiber content in sweet potatoes promotes healthy digestion and can aid in maintaining regular bowel movements.
5. Heart Health: Potassium in sweet potatoes contributes to maintaining a healthy heart by helping regulate blood pressure levels.
6. Immune Support: Vitamin C, present in sweet potatoes, is essential for immune function and wound healing.

Why Sweet Potatoes Make a Great Fall Treat and Addition to Dinner:

1. Seasonal Availability: Sweet potatoes are a fall crop, making them readily available and at their peak freshness during the autumn months. Incorporating seasonal ingredients enhances the overall taste and quality of meals.
2. Comforting and Warm: Fall is often associated with cozy, comfort foods. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes provides warmth and a sense of comfort, making them a perfect choice for fall-inspired dishes.
3. Versatility: Sweet potatoes can be prepared in a variety of ways, from roasting and mashing to baking and frying. This versatility allows you to create a wide range of dishes to suit your taste preferences.
4. Complementary Flavors: The earthy, nutty flavors of sweet potatoes complement other fall ingredients and spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and rosemary. These combinations result in a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
5. Colorful Presentation: The vibrant orange color of sweet potatoes adds visual appeal to dishes, making them visually enticing and contributing to an overall delightful dining experience.
6. Balanced Nutrition: Incorporating sweet potatoes into fall meals adds a nutritious component while enhancing the flavors of the season. They can be a healthier alternative to traditional starchy sides.

Incorporating sweet potatoes into your fall meals brings a burst of flavor and color. It provides a wealth of health benefits, making them a wholesome and delightful addition to your dinner table.

Baked Maple Dijon Chicken Breast With Toasted Pecan Sweet Potato Mashed

Recipe by Chef Cory G

5.0 from 2 votes

Cuisine: DinnerDifficulty: Easy

Servings

2

Plates

Prep Time

15

minutes

Cooking Time

25

minutes

Calories

800

kcal

Our Baked Maple Dijon Chicken, lovingly coated in a harmonious blend of Dijon mustard and maple syrup, dances on your taste buds with its tangy sweetness. But the real star of the show? Our Autumn-Spiced Sweet Potato Mash is a creamy masterpiece kissed by the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, crowned with toasted pecans for an irresistible crunch. Join us in celebrating the season’s flavors with this delectable duo – a plateful of comfort, joy, and the unmistakable charm of autumn.

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Ingredients

• For the Baked Maple Dijon Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• For Spiced Sweet Potato Mash with Toasted Pecans

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/4 cup milk (or more for desired consistency)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Baked Maple Dijon Chicken:
• Whisk together the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
• Brush the maple Dijon mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, coating both sides.
• Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
• Spiced Sweet Potato Mash with Toasted Pecans:
• Boil or steam the sweet potato cubes until tender. Drain well.
• In a mixing bowl, mash the sweet potatoes using a potato masher or fork.
• Add butter, milk, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the mashed sweet potatoes. Adjust the amount of milk for your desired consistency.
• Stir in the chopped toasted pecans and save a little for Garnish
• Assembling the Meal:
• Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Serve the sliced Baked Maple Dijon Chicken with a generous portion of Autumn-Spiced Sweet Potato Mash topped with toasted pecans.
• If you tried this recipe and loved it, I’d appreciate it if you could give it a 5-star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and leave a comment below! It really helps more people find the recipe, and I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

Notes

• WHAT CAN YOU SUBSTITUTE?
  
  Baked Maple Dijon Chicken:
  
  Chicken Thighs: If you prefer darker meat or have chicken thighs on hand, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
  Maple Syrup Alternative: If you’re looking for a different sweetener, substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup.
  Mustard Variations: Experiment with different types of mustard for unique flavor profiles. Try whole grain, honey, or spicy mustard for a twist.
  Herb Substitution: If you want to change the herbs, use rosemary, sage, or tarragon instead of thyme.
  
  Autumn-Spiced Sweet Potato Mash:
  
  Different Sweet Potatoes: While orange sweet potatoes are commonly used, you can explore the flavors of white or purple sweet potatoes for a change.
  Spice Modifications: Adjust the spices according to your taste. Feel free to experiment with ground ginger, allspice, or cloves to enhance the fall spice blend.
  Butter Substitute: If you prefer a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute instead of regular butter.
  Nuts Variations: Exchange toasted pecans for walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts, depending on your preference and availability.
  Mash Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk and butter for your desired level of creaminess in the sweet potato mash.
  
• Remember, substitutions can alter the overall flavor and texture of the dish, so choose options that align with your taste preferences and dietary needs. Feel free to get creative and make the recipe your own!
• To make this Baked Maple Dijon Chicken with Autumn-Spiced Sweet Potato Mash and Toasted Pecans a complete and well-rounded meal, you can add a side of sautéed or roasted green beans. Green beans are a nutritious and complementary addition that brings color, texture, and a touch of freshness to the plate.

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Serving Suggestions for the Ultimate Meal

• Pair With:
  • Steamed green beans or asparagus for added greens.
  • A fresh spinach or kale salad to complement the sweet glaze.
  • Fluffy quinoa or wild rice pilaf as a nutrient-rich side.
• Serving Tips:
  • Plate it elegantly by slicing the chicken and serving atop the sweet potato mash.
  • Ideal for cozy autumn dinners or festive family gatherings.
• Bonus Garnish Tip:
  • Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for a gourmet touch.

Wrapping Up Your Maple Dijon Chicken Adventure

I genuinely hope you enjoy every delicious bite of this Maple Dijon Chicken.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Thighs will give you juicier results but adjust cooking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

Swap it with regular mustard or spicy brown mustard in a pinch.

Can I freeze or reheat Maple Dijon Chicken?

Definitely! Freeze leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 months, and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Can I use pancake syrup instead of pure maple syrup?

You could, but I recommend pure maple syrup for best flavor and nutrition.

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Always use a meat thermometer—cook chicken until it reaches 165°F for perfectly juicy results.

Enjoy every delicious moment—Happy cooking!