Honey Garlic Chicken And Sweet Potato
Honey Garlic Chicken and Sweet Potato is a simple, tasty dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and garlicky sauce alongside soft, roasted sweet potatoes. The…
Tip: save now, cook later.Honey Garlic Chicken and Sweet Potato is a simple, tasty dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and garlicky sauce alongside soft, roasted sweet potatoes. The combination of honey’s natural sweetness and the punch of garlic makes this meal soothing and flavorful without being complicated.
I love making this when I want something easy but still special. The sauce comes together in just a few minutes, and the sweet potatoes roast while the chicken cooks, so everything is ready at the same time. It feels like a little treat that’s healthy too, and it’s one of those meals my family always asks for again.
My favorite way to serve this dish is with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top and a simple green salad on the side. It’s comforting and filling but still bright and fresh. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good the next day, which is a real win in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts give you tender, lean meat. You can swap with chicken thighs if you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat.
Sweet Potatoes: These add natural sweetness and a creamy texture. If you can’t find them, regular potatoes or butternut squash work well too.
Honey: This is the main sweetener in the sauce. Maple syrup or agave nectar are good alternatives if needed.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh is definitely more vibrant.
Soy Sauce: It adds saltiness and depth. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy and the Sauce Thick?
Cooking chicken evenly and getting a sticky sauce can be tricky but here’s how to nail it:
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper for flavor throughout.
- Cook chicken over medium-high heat to get a nice golden crust without drying it out.
- Once golden and cooked through, pour in the sauce and lower the heat.
- Spoon the sauce over the chicken as it simmers to let it thicken and glaze the meat.
- Don’t rush this step; thickened sauce clings better and tastes richer.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for roasting sweet potatoes evenly and getting them crispy.
- Large skillet or frying pan – great for cooking chicken and reducing the honey garlic sauce.
- Mixing bowl – handy for whisking together the sauce ingredients before cooking.
- Knife and cutting board – essential for chopping garlic and cutting sweet potatoes safely.
- Spatula or tongs – helps flip the chicken easily without breaking it apart.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result.
- Add steamed broccoli or green beans as a green side to boost nutrition and color.
- Mix in a pinch of ginger with garlic for a warm, slightly spicy twist.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper, woodsy sweetness that pairs well with smoked paprika.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken and Sweet Potato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This dish will take about 40 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, 25-30 minutes roasting the sweet potatoes in the oven, and about 10-15 minutes cooking the chicken and sauce on the stove. It’s a great recipe for a tasty weeknight meal that’s ready fairly quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Spread the sweet potatoes out evenly on a baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they’re tender and the edges are lightly caramelized.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your sauce.
3. Cook the Chicken and Make the Sauce:
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Lower the heat to medium, then pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken. Let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, spooning the sauce frequently over the chicken so it thickens and creates a shiny glaze.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the chicken from the heat. Serve the chicken breasts alongside the roasted sweet potatoes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a fresh pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious, homemade honey garlic chicken and sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Prepare This Meal Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can roast the sweet potatoes and cook the chicken in advance, then refrigerate everything separately for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring sauce occasionally to keep it smooth.
What Can I Serve With Honey Garlic Chicken and Sweet Potato?
This dish pairs nicely with simple steamed greens, a fresh salad, or some cooked rice for a more filling meal.
