Maple Bourbon Chicken Hash

Maple Bourbon Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash is my favorite go-to when I want a cozy meal that feels a little fancy but is simple enough for a weeknight. The glaze on the chicken is sticky and packed with flavor, while the hash makes a colorful bed that soaks up all those sweet and smoky juices. This is classic American comfort with a modern twist that always gets rave reviews around my table.

I came up with this dish for a holiday meal when I was short on time but wanted something special. Now it is my staple for entertaining and weeknight cravings alike. Even my picky eater asks for seconds.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: tender and flavorful go for air-chilled if possible for juicier results
• Pure maple syrup: real maple is key for caramel depth not imitation
• Bourbon: choose a smooth kind for best glaze but any works
• Dijon mustard: brightens and balances sweetness look for French
• Apple cider vinegar: adds tang local and unfiltered is best
• Fresh garlic: boosts savory notes buy firm white cloves
• Smoked paprika: gives the signature smokiness opt for Spanish smoked
• Olive oil: helps browning and gives flavor extra virgin recommended
• Sweet potatoes: pick ones with a deep orange color for best sweetness
• Red and green bell peppers: bring color and crunch look for glossy firm flesh
• Red onion: adds mild sweet bite select one with tight skin
• Thyme: fresh leaves infuse herby notes dried is fine if needed
• Fresh parsley: for garnish buy crisp fresh bunches for color
• Salt and black pepper: for seasoning use sea or kosher salt for best enhancement
• Required tools: Large skillet measuring bowls knife and cutting board tongs or spatula measuring spoons

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Whisk together maple syrup bourbon Dijon mustard apple cider vinegar garlic smoked paprika salt and pepper in a bowl until well combined and silky. This creates the sticky glaze and marinade that will flavor every layer.

Prepare the Chicken:

Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour half the maple bourbon mixture over them reserving the other half, making sure chicken is coated on all sides. Seal and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Cook the Sweet Potato Hash:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add diced sweet potatoes spreading them so they are in a single layer. Cook and stir every couple of minutes for about 5 minutes until they start to take on golden edges.

Add Hash Vegetables:

Stir in diced bell peppers red onion and thyme. Season with salt and pepper and mix well. Continue cooking stirring often until sweet potatoes are tender and vegetables are glossy and caramelized, about 10 to 12 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning then remove hash from skillet and keep warm.

Sear the Chicken:

Wipe out the skillet and add more olive oil. Remove chicken from marinade discarding used portion. Place chicken thighs in skillet and sear over medium-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the outsides are golden and beginning to crisp.

Glaze and Finish:

Reduce skillet heat to medium then pour the reserved maple bourbon glaze over the chicken. Cook and turn occasionally so the glaze coats all surfaces. Let the chicken continue cooking until fully cooked through and glazed with a thick syrup, about 8 to 10 minutes. If glaze thickens too fast add a small splash of water and swirl to loosen.

Build the Plate:

Place the warm sweet potato hash on plates or a serving platter. Set glazed chicken thighs on top and spoon a little extra glaze over. Finish with chopped fresh parsley scattered all over for a pop of color.

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My favorite part has to be the sticky sweet glaze on the chicken it reminds me of family brunches at my grandmother’s house. Once my daughter helped me stir the glaze and ended up licking the whisk clean before the chicken ever hit the skillet. Every time I make this I think about how a simple ingredient like maple can bring everyone to the kitchen.

Storage Tips

The sweet potato hash keeps well in the fridge in an airtight container for up to four days. Chicken stays moist if sliced and cooled before refrigerating. Reheat gently in the skillet to keep everything tender.

Ingredient Swaps

Swap boneless chicken breasts if you prefer lighter meat. For a vegetarian version use pressed tofu and marinate it the same way then pan sear for crisp edges. You can add poblano to the hash for smoky spice or use shallots instead of onion.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over arugula for a leafy twist. Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for tang. Pair with a dry Riesling or a bourbon-based cocktail for a festive touch.

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This Maple Bourbon Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash makes weeknights feel special and brings Southern-inspired comfort to your table. Enjoy every sweet and savory bite.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well if sliced thinner for even cooking. Adjust timing for desired juiciness.

→ How do I make this vegetarian?

Swap chicken for firm tofu or tempeh. Marinate and sear as directed, ensuring tofu browns nicely.

→ Is there a substitute for bourbon?

Try apple juice or a splash of apple cider for sweetness without alcohol. Flavor depth remains pleasing.

→ Can sweet potatoes be prepped ahead?

Yes, dice and store sweet potatoes in water a day ahead. Drain and pat dry before sautéing.

→ What pairs well with this dish?

Serve with a dry Riesling or bourbon cocktail. A simple green salad makes a refreshing side.

→ How do I make the glaze thicker?

Simmer gently until desired consistency. If it thickens too fast, add a splash of water to loosen.