Name: Healthy Chipotle Chicken Sweet Potato Skins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American / Healthy
Ingredients: 3 medium sweet potatoes; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (14 ounces) chickpeas, drained (optional); 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated; 2–3 chipotle chilies in adobo, chopped (adjust to taste); 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon cumin; Zest of 1 lime; Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped; 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these sweet potato skins because they’re loaded with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Smoky chipotle, lime zest, and spices give the chicken a kick, while chickpeas add protein and texture. Topped with fresh greens and melted cheddar, these skins are crunchy, savory, and satisfying all without the guilt of traditional fried potato skins.

Ingredients

(Tip: Full measurements and instructions are included in the recipe card below.)

3 medium sweet potatoes
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 can (14 ounces) chickpeas, drained (optional)
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced or grated
2–3 chipotle chilies in adobo, chopped (adjust to taste)
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon cumin
Zest of 1 lime
Kosher salt and black pepper
2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub sweet potatoes, then pierce several times with a fork. Roast for 40–50 minutes until tender. Let cool slightly, then cut in half and scoop out some flesh to create “skins.” Reserve the scooped sweet potato for mixing with the chicken filling.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, chipotle chilies, chili powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, lime zest, salt, and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Dice or shred the chicken breasts and add to the skillet. Cook until fully cooked and coated with spices. Stir in chickpeas and reserved sweet potato flesh.
Fill each sweet potato skin with the chicken mixture. Top with shredded cheddar cheese. Return to the oven and bake 10–12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from oven and top with chopped spinach and fresh cilantro before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Make it vegetarian by skipping chicken and adding extra chickpeas, black beans, or lentils.
Use pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Spice it up with extra chipotle or cayenne pepper.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the chicken filling and sweet potato skins separately. Assemble and bake just before serving.

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, but sweet potatoes give a natural sweetness that complements the smoky chicken.

Can I freeze these?

It’s best to freeze the filling separately. Reheat and assemble on fresh baked sweet potato halves.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What other toppings work well?

Sliced avocado, salsa, Greek yogurt, or pickled jalapeños add extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Healthy Chipotle Chicken Sweet Potato Skins are a fun, flavorful, and wholesome twist on traditional potato skins. Packed with smoky, spiced chicken, chickpeas, fresh greens, and melted cheese, they’re satisfying, nutritious, and perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or party appetizers.