There’s something comforting about a meal that combines simplicity, flavor, and minimal cleanup—and that’s exactly what this Sheet-Pan Miso Chicken & Sweet Potatoes delivers. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend meal, this dish brings the rich, umami depth of miso together with tender, juicy chicken and naturally sweet roasted sweet potatoes. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, making everyone in the house eager to gather around the table.
The inspiration for this recipe comes from traditional Japanese home cooking, where miso isn’t just a seasoning—it’s a secret to elevating everyday ingredients. By pairing miso-marinated chicken with sweet potatoes, you get a dish that’s both hearty and nourishing while remaining incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prep enthusiast, or someone craving bold, comforting flavors, this sheet-pan meal is designed to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
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2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
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2 tablespoons white miso paste
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1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 green onions, sliced for garnish
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Sesame seeds, for garnish
Directions
Preheat the oven and prepare the sheet pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps ensure that the chicken stays juicy while the sweet potatoes develop a beautifully caramelized exterior. While the oven is heating, prepare a large sheet pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with olive oil. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze, which is one of the many advantages of a sheet-pan meal. Make sure the sheet pan is large enough to give the chicken and sweet potatoes plenty of room, as overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
Prepare the miso marinade
Next, prepare the flavorful miso marinade that will infuse the chicken with rich, savory, and slightly sweet notes. In a small bowl, whisk together white miso paste, soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option), honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. For a subtle touch of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth and fully combined. Taste the marinade before using it to ensure the balance of salty, sweet, and umami flavors is just right. Adjust the honey or soy sauce according to your preference.
Marinate the chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a resealable zip-top bag. Pour half of the miso marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. For maximum flavor, use your hands or a spoon to massage the marinade into the chicken. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, which is perfect if you’re preparing the meal in a hurry. For deeper flavor, you can marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Longer marinating times allow the miso and ginger to penetrate the meat, resulting in a richer, more flavorful dish.
Prepare the sweet potatoes
While the chicken is marinating, work on the sweet potatoes. Peel them if desired, then cut them into 1-inch cubes for even roasting. In a separate bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each cube is evenly coated to ensure they roast properly and develop a golden, caramelized surface. Spread the sweet potatoes evenly on the prepared sheet pan, leaving space for the chicken. Proper spacing allows air to circulate, which is key to achieving perfectly roasted sweet potatoes.
Arrange the chicken and sweet potatoes
Once the chicken has marinated, arrange the thighs on the sheet pan alongside the sweet potatoes. Drizzle the remaining miso marinade over both the chicken and the sweet potatoes to add extra depth of flavor. Try to place the chicken in the center or slightly separated from the sweet potatoes so that each component cooks evenly and absorbs maximum flavor.
Roast in the oven
Transfer the sheet pan to the preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized on the edges. Halfway through roasting, give the sweet potatoes a gentle stir to ensure even browning. This step helps bring out the natural sweetness of the potatoes while keeping the chicken juicy and perfectly cooked.
Finish and garnish
Once cooked, remove the sheet pan from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and moist. Sprinkle with freshly sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a burst of color, flavor, and texture.
Serve and enjoy
Serve this hearty sheet-pan meal warm, either on its own or paired with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a balanced dinner. This combination of savory miso chicken and sweet roasted potatoes makes for a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend gathering.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
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Yield: 4 servings
Tips for Perfect Sheet-Pan Miso Chicken & Sweet Potatoes
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Choose the right sweet potatoes
Opt for firm, evenly sized sweet potatoes for uniform roasting. This ensures they cook at the same rate as the chicken. -
Marinate for flavor
Even a short 15-minute marinade allows the miso and ginger to penetrate the chicken, adding depth and tenderness. For best results, marinate longer if possible. -
Avoid overcrowding the pan
Give the chicken and sweet potatoes room on the sheet pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which reduces caramelization. -
Check for doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Sweet potatoes are done when easily pierced with a fork and lightly golden around the edges. -
Customize the spice level
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicier version. For a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes entirely.
Variations and Substitutions
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Protein alternatives: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts, salmon fillets, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
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Vegetable swaps: Add broccoli, bell peppers, or brussels sprouts for added color and nutrition. Roast these alongside sweet potatoes for an easy one-pan meal.
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Sweetener alternatives: Use agave, brown sugar, or coconut sugar instead of honey or maple syrup. Each adds a slightly different sweetness and depth of flavor.
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Miso alternatives: White miso is mild and slightly sweet, but you can experiment with yellow or red miso for a bolder, saltier flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
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With grains: Serve the roasted chicken and sweet potatoes over steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or brown rice for a hearty, well-rounded meal.
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With greens: Pair with a simple green salad dressed in sesame or ginger vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors.
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Meal prep: This recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for weekly meal prep. Divide into containers with rice and greens for quick lunches or dinners.
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Family-style dinner: Roast extra sweet potatoes and vegetables for a large family gathering. This recipe scales easily without compromising flavor.
Why Sheet-Pan Meals Are Perfect
Sheet-pan meals have surged in popularity for a reason. They simplify cooking without sacrificing flavor, making them perfect for busy households. With minimal dishes to wash and maximum flavor in every bite, sheet-pan recipes like this one allow home cooks to enjoy wholesome, homemade meals without stress. The combination of miso-marinated chicken and naturally sweet roasted sweet potatoes is both nutritious and visually appealing, making it a dish you’ll want to share on social media, in a family newsletter, or with friends over dinner.
Health Benefits
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Rich in protein: Chicken thighs provide a satisfying amount of protein, helping with muscle repair and sustained energy.
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Packed with vitamins: Sweet potatoes are loaded with beta-carotene, vitamin C, and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion.
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Balanced meal: Pairing lean protein with complex carbohydrates and healthy fats creates a balanced meal that fuels your body and keeps you full longer.
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Gut-friendly: Miso is a fermented food rich in probiotics, which may aid in digestion and support a healthy gut microbiome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this Sheet-Pan Miso Chicken & Sweet Potatoes is how convenient it is for meal prep. You can prepare the miso marinade and chop the sweet potatoes a few hours or even a day in advance. Store the chicken in the marinade in the refrigerator, making sure it is fully covered to absorb the rich flavors. Keep the sweet potatoes in a separate airtight container or bowl to prevent them from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to cook, simply arrange the chicken and sweet potatoes on the sheet pan and roast according to the recipe instructions. Preparing components ahead of time not only saves effort on busy evenings but also allows the flavors to develop more deeply in the chicken, resulting in an even more flavorful meal.
2. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this recipe freezes beautifully, making it a perfect option for batch cooking. Roast the chicken and sweet potatoes fully, then allow everything to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer portions to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags and store in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if possible, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also use a microwave for a quicker option, though reheating in the oven helps maintain the caramelized texture of the sweet potatoes and keeps the chicken juicy. Freezing this dish is ideal for preparing multiple meals at once, ensuring you have a delicious, homemade dinner ready whenever needed.
3. Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
Frozen sweet potato cubes can work in a pinch, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Make sure the cubes are well-drained to remove any excess moisture, as water can prevent proper caramelization during roasting. You may also need to slightly reduce the roasting time or keep a closer eye on them to avoid overcooking. While fresh sweet potatoes are ideal for achieving the perfect texture and flavor, frozen cubes provide a convenient alternative for when fresh produce isn’t available.
4. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap regular soy sauce for tamari or another certified gluten-free soy sauce. It’s also important to double-check the miso paste, as some varieties contain barley or other gluten-containing grains. Using gluten-free ingredients ensures that the dish retains its rich umami flavor while remaining safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
