Honey Garlic Chicken and Sweet Potato is a simple, tasty meal that combines tender chicken pieces glazed with a sweet and garlicky sauce alongside soft, roasted sweet potatoes. The balance of the honey’s sweetness and the garlic’s punch makes every bite delicious, while the sweet potatoes add a comforting, natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights because it feels special without taking too much time. The sauce is easy to whip up, and everything cooks together on one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. I usually sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top to brighten it up and add a fresh touch.
One of my favorite ways to serve this meal is with a simple green salad or steamed veggies on the side for some crunch and color. It’s the kind of dinner that feels warm and homey, but also makes you smile because it’s so good and straightforward. Plus, it always gets great reviews from family and friends who try it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but breasts work well too. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try firm tofu or tempeh.
Sweet Potatoes: They add natural sweetness and soft texture. You can swap them with butternut squash or carrots for a similar feel.
Honey: It provides the rich sweetness in the sauce. Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives if you want to avoid honey.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a sharp, fragrant punch. If you’re short on fresh, garlic powder or jarred minced garlic can work in a pinch.
Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and umami. Use tamari for a gluten-free alternative or coconut aminos for a lighter taste.
How Do I Make the Honey Garlic Sauce Thick and Flavorful?
The sauce is simple but key to the dish’s flavor. Here’s how to get it right:
- Cook the garlic briefly in medium heat to bring out its aroma without burning, which can cause bitterness.
- Add honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine all flavors.
- Let it simmer gently for a few minutes. This reduces the liquid and thickens the sauce slightly, making it cling nicely to the chicken and sweet potatoes.
- If you want it thicker, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it in near the end.
Keep the heat moderate and watch carefully so the sauce doesn’t burn. This slow simmer is what helps develop that rich, sticky coating that makes the dish so tasty!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large oven-safe skillet – great for cooking chicken and then finishing the sweet potatoes in the oven without extra pans.
- Baking sheet – to roast the sweet potatoes evenly and get nice caramelization.
- Sharp knife – makes cutting chicken and sweet potatoes safer and easier.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – perfect for stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate honey, soy sauce, and vinegar amounts to balance the flavors.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for pork tenderloin slices for a slightly richer flavor that also pairs well with honey garlic sauce.
- Add chopped bell peppers or snap peas near the end for a fresh, crunchy contrast to the soft sweet potatoes.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat to balance the sweetness.
- Top with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a fresh, nutty finish.
Honey Garlic Chicken and Sweet Potato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Sauce:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 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 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian herbs
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For The Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 35 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the sweet potatoes roast, season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and dried thyme or Italian herbs. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, turning occasionally.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar, stirring well. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken beautifully.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet with the honey garlic chicken and gently toss to combine. Warm everything together for another minute. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Chicken and Sweet Potato meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better browning.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can roast the sweet potatoes and cook the chicken in advance, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of water or extra sauce if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Sweet Potatoes?
If you don’t have sweet potatoes, try butternut squash or carrots. Both roast well and provide a similar sweet, tender texture that complements the honey garlic chicken.
