Mediterranean Honey Garlic Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Green Beans
This Mediterranean Honey Garlic Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Green Beans is a wholesome, well-balanced dish that brings together lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and a sweet-savory glaze. The chicken is pan-seared or baked with a honey garlic sauce that’s infused with Mediterranean-inspired simplicity — minimal seasoning but maximum flavor. Sweet potatoes are roasted until caramelized and slightly crisp, while green beans are tender yet crisp for that satisfying bite.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or even a casual gathering where you want something hearty but healthy.
Time Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 45–50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Honey Garlic Chicken:
1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed or diced
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp smoked paprika (or paprika)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Green Beans:
8 oz fresh green beans, trimmed
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
Other (Optional Enhancements):
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for pan-searing chicken)
1 tbsp butter (for pan-searing chicken)
¼ cup finely chopped onion (for pan-searing chicken)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for sauce depth)
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1 – Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss cubed sweet potatoes in olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden-brown on the edges and tender inside.
Step 2 – Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard if using.
Taste and adjust — add a touch more soy for saltiness or honey for sweetness.
Step 3 – Cook the Chicken
Pan-Sear Method:
Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.
Lightly coat with flour if desired for a golden crust.
Heat 1 tbsp butter (or olive oil) in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden.
Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add onions (if using) and sauté for 2 minutes.
Pour in the honey garlic sauce, stir, and return chicken to coat. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens.
(Optional) Add apple cider vinegar for a tangy lift.
Oven-Bake Method:
Place chicken in a baking dish.
Pour honey garlic sauce over the chicken.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, basting halfway, until cooked through (165°F / 74°C internal temp).
Step 4 – Cook the Green Beans
While chicken and sweet potatoes are cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat.
Add olive oil or butter.
Toss in green beans, season with salt and pepper.
Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender-crisp.
Step 5 – Assemble & Serve
Arrange roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed green beans, and honey garlic chicken on plates.
Spoon extra sauce over chicken.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Serve hot.
Tips for Success
Chicken Choice: Thighs remain juicier, but breasts work well if you avoid overcooking.
Caramelization: For crispier sweet potatoes, don’t overcrowd the pan.
Sauce Control: Simmer sauce gently; too high heat can cause honey to burn.
Green Bean Texture: Shock green beans in ice water after blanching for bright color if you want to prep ahead.
Meal Prep: This keeps well for 3–4 days refrigerated; store components separately to maintain texture.
Variations
Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the sauce for more depth.
Spicy Kick: Add ½–1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes to the honey garlic sauce.
Herb Swap: Use fresh thyme or rosemary in the sweet potato roast.
Protein Change: Swap chicken for turkey cutlets, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Extra Veggies: Add roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the tray for a full Mediterranean roast.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this entirely in one pan?
A: Yes. Use an oven-safe skillet: sear chicken, add sweet potatoes, roast together, and toss in green beans for the last 10 minutes.
Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes, but cook them from frozen in a skillet — avoid steaming first to prevent sogginess.
Q: What’s the best way to thicken the sauce without burning it?
A: Reduce heat to medium-low once sauce is simmering, and let it bubble slowly until it coats the back of a spoon.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes, if you skip the flour or use gluten-free flour.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely — just use two sheet pans for sweet potatoes to avoid crowding and adjust sauce amounts accordingly.
Nutrition (Per Serving – 4 Servings)
(Values are approximate)
Calories: 420
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugars: 14g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: 530mg
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Honey Garlic Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Green Beans is more than just a dinner — it’s a complete, satisfying plate with balanced flavors and nutrients. The chicken is tender and juicy, the sweet potatoes add earthy sweetness with a touch of smokiness, and the green beans bring a fresh, crisp bite. Best of all, the dish comes together in under an hour and can be easily adapted for different tastes or dietary needs.