BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl is a one-bowl meal that combines the best of savory, smoky, and fresh flavors. The roasted sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the BBQ chicken, while the optional toppings allow you to customize the bowl to your liking. It’s hearty, healthy, and bursting with flavors, making it an ideal choice for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, with a vibrant array of ingredients that are both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts)
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided use
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus more for drizzling if desired)

Optional Toppings:

• 1 avocado, diced
• ½ cup canned corn, drained
• ½ cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• ¼ cup diced red onion
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onions

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Place the diced sweet potatoes on the baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
3. Cook the Chicken: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
4. Assemble the Bowls: In a bowl, start by adding a layer of roasted sweet potatoes. Top with the sliced BBQ chicken and drizzle with BBQ sauce.
5. Add Toppings: Add your choice of toppings—avocado, corn, black beans, red onion, cilantro, shredded cheese, and sliced green onions.
6. Serve: Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30-35 minutes
• Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and replace it with grilled or roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Spicy Kick: Add some sliced jalapeños or drizzle spicy BBQ sauce on top for a bit of heat.
• Add Quinoa or Rice: Serve the bowl over cooked quinoa or brown rice for extra texture and fiber.
• Cheese Alternatives: Use dairy-free cheese if you want a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the sweet potatoes and chicken in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave the leftovers for 1-2 minutes, but the sweet potatoes may lose some of their crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless?

Yes, bone-in chicken breasts will work, but they will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can roast the sweet potatoes and cook the chicken ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the bowls with the toppings and drizzle with BBQ sauce.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can use regular potatoes or even butternut squash in place of sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no wheat or gluten-based ingredients.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a drizzle of hot sauce, jalapeños, or chili powder to the chicken or BBQ sauce for an added kick.

Can I freeze the chicken for later?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. After cooking, let it cool and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw and heat in a skillet until warmed through.

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, store-bought BBQ sauce works perfectly. Just choose a variety you enjoy, or use a homemade version for a more personalized flavor.

How do I make the chicken more flavorful?

For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking, or season the chicken with additional spices such as cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika.

Can I add more vegetables to the bowl?

Definitely! You can add roasted or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even grilled zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or a veggie burger patty, and use a dairy-free cheese.

Conclusion

This BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl is a nutritious, delicious, and customizable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with vibrant flavors from the BBQ chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, and fresh toppings, it’s a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this bowl will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the smoky, savory goodness in every bite!

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