Save The first time I made this maple Dijon glaze, I accidentally doubled the maple syrup and ended up with the stickiest, most incredible chicken situation. My kitchen smelled like a Vermont sugarhouse in autumn, and I knew I was onto something special.
Last winter, my sister came over after a brutal week at work, and I served her these bowls piping hot. She took one bite, closed her eyes, and said this was exactly the kind of food that makes you believe everything might actually turn out okay.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounding them to even thickness ensures they cook at the same rate, so no dry spots or undercooked centers
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup: Real maple syrup matters here, the artificial stuff lacks that deep caramel complexity
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: The sharp tang cuts through the sweetness perfectly
- 2 medium sweet potatoes: They become creamy and tender in the oven while developing crispy edges
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts: Roasting transforms them into little caramelized gems
- 1 cup brown or wild rice: The nutty flavor and chewy texture hold up beautifully against the sweet glaze
Instructions
- Get your rice going first:
- Start cooking the rice according to package directions, since it needs the most time and can hang out warm while everything else finishes
- Preheat and prep:
- Heat your oven to 400°F and toss sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and that optional cinnamon and rosemary if you are feeling fancy
- Roast the vegetables:
- Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through until they are golden and tender
- Whisk the magic glaze:
- In a small bowl, combine maple syrup and Dijon mustard until smooth
- Sear the chicken:
- Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper, then cook in hot olive oil for 5 to 6 minutes per side
- Add the glaze:
- Brush that maple Dijon mixture on during the last 2 minutes of cooking until it bubbles and caramelizes beautifully
- Let it rest:
- Remove chicken and let it sit for 5 minutes so the juices redistribute
- Build your bowls:
- Divide rice among four bowls, top with roasted vegetables and sliced chicken, then drizzle with any remaining glaze
Save These bowls have become my go-to when friends need feeding but I do not have the energy for anything fussy. Something about that maple mustard combination hits such a nostalgic comfort note while still feeling grown up and intentional.
Make Ahead Strategy
I have learned through many meal prep sessions that storing components separately keeps everything fresh. The glaze thins out if it sits too long on the chicken, so pack that in a tiny container and drizzle right before eating.
Vegetarian Swap
When my plant-based friend visits, I use extra firm tofu pressed and cubed instead of chicken. The glaze works beautifully, and the tofu soaks up all that maple Dijon goodness just as well as meat ever did.
Texture Game
Those optional pecans and dried cranberries are not just garnish, they completely transform each bite into something crunchy and chewy and complex. The toppings make this feel like a grain bowl from an expensive cafe instead of something thrown together on a Tuesday night.
- Toast the pecans in a dry pan for 2 minutes to bring out their natural oils
- Warm the cranberries briefly in the glaze to plump them up
- Add everything just before serving so nothing gets soggy
Save Hope these bowls bring you as much cozy comfort as they have brought to my kitchen table on countless busy weeknights.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → How long do these bowls keep in the refrigerator?
Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 4-5 days. Keep the chicken, vegetables, and rice in individual containers to maintain optimal texture and freshness.
- → Can I use other vegetables in this bowl?
Absolutely. Butternut squash, carrots, parsnips, or green beans work wonderfully as substitutes or additions to the roasted vegetables. Adjust roasting time as needed based on the vegetables you choose.
- → What can I substitute for the maple syrup?
Honey or agave nectar make excellent alternatives to maple syrup, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. Honey adds a distinct floral sweetness while agave provides a more neutral sweetness.
- → Is this meal freezer-friendly?
Yes, these bowls freeze well for up to 3 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Certainly. Substitute extra-firm tofu or chickpeas for the chicken. Press and sear the tofu with the same maple Dijon glaze, or roast chickpeas until crispy and toss with the glaze before serving.
- → What other grains work well as the base?
Quinoa, farro, bulgur, or cauliflower rice all make excellent bases. Quinoa cooks quickly and adds extra protein, while farro provides a nutty chew. Cauliflower rice offers a lighter, low-carbohydrate alternative.