Easy Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

Discover a quick and flavorful Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet recipe perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender chicken with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, creating a balanced and comforting meal that’s healthy, easy, and downright delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping something for yourself, this skillet recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for tight schedules.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Combines protein-packed chicken with fiber-rich sweet potatoes for balanced nutrition.
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
• Versatile Flavor: Adaptable to your favorite herbs and spices for personalized taste.
• Year-Round Favorite: Comforting warmth for cooler months and light enough for summer nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a critical role in flavor, texture, and color. Fresh, wholesome components come together effortlessly to make this dish shine.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Tender and juicy protein foundation, choose based on preference.
• Sweet potatoes: Natural sweetness and vibrant orange color that complements the chicken.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a crispy exterior.
• Garlic cloves: For aromatic depth and subtle spice.
• Smoked paprika: Imparts smoky warmth and a gentle kick.
• Fresh rosemary or thyme: Herbal freshness to brighten the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and complements the texture of the sweet potatoes.
• Chicken broth (optional): Keeps the chicken moist and creates a flavorful pan sauce.

Variations for Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Feel free to customize this Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet to your liking—it’s extremely adaptable based on what you have on hand or dietary needs. Experiment away to keep this recipe exciting!

• Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for extra heat and depth.
• Vegetarian version: Swap chicken for hearty chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based alternative.
• Green addition: Toss in fresh spinach or kale at the end for a nutrient boost.
• Cheesy finish: Sprinkle crumbled feta or grated parmesan to add creaminess.
• Change the herb profile: Use basil or oregano instead of rosemary for a Mediterranean twist.

this …

How to Make Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet potato cubes and onion, cooking until golden brown and fork-tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even roasting.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Push the sweet potatoes and onions to the sides of the skillet and add the chicken pieces in the center. Sear each side until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Garlic and herbs can be added during this stage for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Once the chicken is cooked, stir everything together in the skillet. Pour in a splash of chicken broth if using, to deglaze the pan and create a light sauce. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately for the best texture and taste.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

• Cut Evenly: Ensure sweet potato cubes are the same size for even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Use a large enough skillet to avoid steaming instead of roasting.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking for juicier bites.
• Season Generously: Proper seasoning enhances every element of this dish.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Add freshness and aroma that elevate the skillet’s flavor.

How to Serve Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a zest of lemon brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color that’s visually appealing and flavorful.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs well with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or even a scoop of fluffy rice for a complete meal that satisfies.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken and sweet potato skillet in individual cast-iron skillets or rustic bowls to make the meal feel extra special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. They stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for excellent next-day lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet freezes well; portion it out into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out while warming evenly.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, and they work wonderfully in the Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet recipe.

Are sweet potatoes the only option?

You can substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness and nutrition that really elevate this dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, naturally! All the ingredients in this Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet recipe are gluten-free, making it safe for most dietary needs.

How spicy is the dish?

The base recipe is mild, but you can easily adjust the heat level by adding spices like cayenne or chili flakes according to preference.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

By swapping the chicken for plant-based proteins like chickpeas or tofu, and skipping chicken broth, you can enjoy a delicious vegan-friendly version.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comforting yet healthy meal that comes together quickly, this Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is the perfect answer. It strikes the ideal balance of flavors and textures, making it simple to nourish yourself and your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again!

Related Posts

• Best Rosemary Roasted Potatoes for Cozy Nights
• Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet Recipe
• Slow Cooker Honey Sriracha Chicken Delight

Print