Maple Mustard Sheet Pan Chicken and Fall Vegetables Recipe

If you are looking for a wholesome, comforting dinner that comes together with minimal fuss yet bursts with flavors, the Maple Mustard Sheet Pan Chicken and Fall Vegetables is pure magic. Imagine tender chicken roasted to perfection alongside sweet, caramelized fall vegetables all coated in a tangy, honeyed maple mustard sauce that hits every note you crave this season. This beautiful dish not only satisfies your appetite but also fills your kitchen with the warm aromas of autumn, making it an instant favorite for any weeknight or casual gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in building a symphony of texture, flavor, and color in the dish. From the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes to the savory bite of brussels sprouts and the zesty tang of mustard, every component is chosen for its delicious contribution.

• 2 lbs chicken breast or chicken thighs: Provides juicy, protein-packed goodness that pairs perfectly with roasted veggies.
• 1-1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and seasonings throughout the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an herby complexity that elevates the chicken and vegetables.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Imparts subtle warmth and aroma.
• 1 lb brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved: Brings a slight bitterness and lovely caramelized edges when roasted.
• 1 lb sweet potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces: Offers a luscious sweetness and vibrant orange color.
• 1 red onion, cut into 1/2-inch wedges: Adds a mild sharpness and beautiful purple hue.
• Maple Mustard Sauce: A blend of 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard, 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; this sauce is the heart of the dish, combining tangy, sweet, and savory notes that coat everything perfectly.

How to Make Maple Mustard Sheet Pan Chicken and Fall Vegetables

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to a hot 425˚F. This high heat is key for roasting the chicken and vegetables to juicy, golden-tipped perfection. While the oven warms up, season each chicken breast thoroughly on both sides with kosher salt, dried thyme, and garlic powder. Letting the chicken rest at room temperature while prepping the rest allows the seasoning to penetrate deeply, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Maple Mustard Sauce

In a small bowl, vigorously whisk together all the sauce ingredients until they come together into a smooth, well-emulsified dressing. This luscious mixture is what makes the Maple Mustard Sheet Pan Chicken and Fall Vegetables so irresistibly tangy and sweet, infusing each bite with a balance of flavors that sing in harmony.

Step 3: Toss the Vegetables in Sauce

Place the trimmed brussels sprouts, sweet potato chunks, and red onion wedges in a large mixing bowl. Pour about one-third of your maple mustard sauce over the vegetables and toss until every piece is coated beautifully. If you feel like these veggies need a little more love (or sauce), add another tablespoon or two. This step ensures that the vegetables roast with a flavorful glaze that caramelizes slightly in the oven.

Step 4: Arrange Everything on the Sheet Pan

Spread the coated vegetables evenly across a large sheet pan, giving them enough room to roast rather than steam. Nestle the seasoned chicken pieces amidst the vegetables in the pan, then brush each chicken breast generously with the reserved maple mustard sauce. Save at least another third of the sauce for drizzling once everything is cooked. This layering of flavors during roasting seals in moisture and intensifies the deliciousness.

Step 5: Roast and Stir

Pop the sheet pan into the preheated oven and roast for 30 to 35 minutes. Be sure to stir the vegetables once or twice during roasting. This step prevents any burning and helps the vegetables develop those gorgeous browned, crispy edges while the chicken cooks through to an internal temperature of 165˚F. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely mouthwatering at this point.

Step 6: Rest and Finish with Sauce

Once out of the oven, let the chicken and veggies rest on the sheet pan for 5 to 10 minutes. This little pause allows all the juices to redistribute. Before serving, drizzle the remaining maple mustard sauce over everything to add a fresh, glossy finish that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

How to Serve Maple Mustard Sheet Pan Chicken and Fall Vegetables

Garnishes

For a small extra touch of brightness and texture, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme leaves over the top. A few toasted pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch that complements the tender vegetables perfectly. These simple additions elevate the presentation and flavor without overshadowing the cozy mainstay of the dish.

Side Dishes

This dish holds its own wonderfully as a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Alternatively, serving alongside warm crusty bread or garlic mashed potatoes can create a heartier comfort food feast perfect for chilly nights.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties or family gatherings, serve the chicken sliced against the grain with vegetables piled high on a rustic wooden board or large serving platter. Drizzle some extra maple mustard sauce over the top tableside for a bit of interactive fun. You could even serve it in individual cast iron skillets for a charming, cozy presentation that keeps the meal warm until the last bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Maple Mustard Sheet Pan Chicken and Fall Vegetables should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making this dish a fantastic option for make-ahead meals or enjoying throughout the week without losing that fresh-baked flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers if you want to save them for even longer. Place the cooled chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of some vegetables might soften slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavors remain delightful.

Reheating

To bring your leftover Maple Mustard Sheet Pan Chicken and Fall Vegetables back to life, heat them gently on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, cover and warm through, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. This method helps maintain as much crispness as possible and preserves the delicious sauce coating everything.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative, offering slightly richer flavor and staying juicy even if cooked a bit longer. Just adjust cooking time if needed to ensure they are cooked through.

What vegetables can I substitute in this recipe?

Feel free to swap the brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes for equally hearty fall vegetables like carrots, butternut squash, broccoli, cauliflower, or even parsnips. The maple mustard sauce works beautifully with a wide variety of veggies.

Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes! All the ingredients shown are naturally gluten free, making this recipe perfect for those following a gluten-free diet. Just ensure that your mustard and other condiments are gluten-free certified.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

Definitely. Swap the chicken for firm tofu or your favorite plant-based protein, and make sure to use maple mustard sauce without any animal-derived ingredients. You’ll still get that amazing combination of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.

How spicy is the dish?

The recipe features a mild kick from the spicy brown mustard, which is perfectly balanced by sweet maple syrup and warming cinnamon. If you prefer less heat, stick to Dijon mustard only or adjust the spice level to your liking.

Final Thoughts

Trying the Maple Mustard Sheet Pan Chicken and Fall Vegetables is like welcoming a warm, delicious hug onto your dinner table. It’s effortless, forgiving, and packed with such incredible layers of flavor and texture that you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and again throughout the cooler months. So grab your sheet pan and get roasting—your new favorite fall dinner awaits!