In the world of culinary delights, finding a quick yet delicious main - dish recipe can be a real treasure. One such gem is the chicken coated with maple syrup. This dish not only offers a sweet and savory flavor profile but is also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual dinners with family and friends.

Let's start with the star of the show - the chicken. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They are lean, cook quickly, and absorb flavors beautifully. First, take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial as it helps the chicken sear properly and develop a nice crust. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for an extra layer of flavor.

Now, it's time for the maple syrup coating. In a small bowl, combine pure maple syrup, a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and a splash of soy sauce. The Dijon mustard adds a tangy note that cuts through the sweetness of the maple syrup, while the soy sauce enhances the umami flavor. Whisk the ingredients together until well - combined. Brush this mixture over the seasoned chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly.

Preheat your skillet over medium - high heat and add a little bit of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Let them cook for about 3 - 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. As the chicken cooks, baste it with the remaining maple syrup mixture in the bowl. This will give the chicken a lovely, sticky glaze.

While the chicken is cooking, it's time to prepare the side dish. Refrigerated mashed sweet potatoes are an excellent choice. They are not only convenient but also add a touch of natural sweetness and a rich, creamy texture to the meal. To make them even more delicious, you can add a pat of butter, a splash of milk, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Heat the mashed sweet potatoes in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until they are warm and well - combined.

Once the chicken is cooked and the sweet potatoes are heated, it's time to plate your meal. Place a chicken breast on each plate and spoon the mashed sweet potatoes alongside. You can drizzle any remaining maple syrup glaze from the skillet over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of chopped chives to add a pop of color.

This chicken and sweet potato combination is a match made in heaven. The sweet maple - coated chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy, cinnamon - infused sweet potatoes. It's a well - balanced meal that satisfies both your sweet and savory cravings. Moreover, the use of refrigerated mashed sweet potatoes saves you a significant amount of time in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy a home - cooked meal without spending hours preparing it.

If you want to take this dish to the next level, you can serve it with a side salad. A simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing crunch and a dose of vitamins and minerals to the meal. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices in the maple syrup coating. For example, adding a little bit of rosemary or thyme can give the chicken a more earthy and aromatic flavor.

In conclusion, the chicken with maple syrup and refrigerated mashed sweet potatoes is a quick, easy, and delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It showcases the beauty of using simple ingredients to create a memorable meal. Whether you're a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is a great addition to your collection of recipes by ingredient.