Rustic American Maple-Pecan Chicken with Sweet Potato Mash

Ingredients

• 4 pieces chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

1. 01
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 02
   In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add the maple syrup. Stir in the chopped pecans, and cook for 3-5 minutes until the pecans are lightly toasted. Set aside.
3. 03
   Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
4. 04
   Sear the chicken breasts in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. 05
   Pour the maple-pecan mixture over the chicken and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
6. 06
   While the chicken is baking, place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
7. 07
   Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the remaining butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Mash until smooth and creamy.
8. 08
   Stir in fresh thyme into the sweet potato mash for added flavor.
9. 09
   Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
10. 10
    Serve the maple-pecan chicken alongside the sweet potato mash. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the chicken.