One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is packed with nutrients, flavor, and is incredibly easy to make. The chicken is juicy and well-seasoned, while the sweet potatoes turn golden and soft in the skillet, perfectly complementing the chicken. The bell peppers and onions add freshness and a pop of color. Plus, the one-pan cooking method means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal! Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner, a quick meal prep option, or a family-friendly dish, this skillet meal fits the bill.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small yellow onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

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

Directions

Prepare the ingredients:

1. Preheat the skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to heat up.
2. Prepare the sweet potatoes: While the skillet is heating, peel and dice the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. This will help them cook evenly.
3. Season the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Cook the chicken:

4. Sear the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the sweet potatoes and veggies:

5. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the pan gets too dry, add a little more olive oil or a splash of water to help soften the sweet potatoes.
6. Add the bell pepper and onion: Once the sweet potatoes start to soften, add the bell pepper and onion to the skillet. Season with additional salt and pepper, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.

Combine and serve:

7. Return the chicken: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the chicken back into the skillet on top of the sweet potatoes and vegetables. Let everything cook together for another 3-4 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and the flavors have melded.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 2-4 (depending on portion size)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add greens: Add spinach, kale, or arugula to the skillet in the last few minutes of cooking for added greens.
• Use other veggies: Swap the bell pepper and onion for other veggies such as zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus for a different twist.
• Sweet potato alternatives: For a variation, try using butternut squash or regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes for a similar texture but a different flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño for some extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the skillet or microwave until heated through.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over low heat, adding a little olive oil or water to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.

2. Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Frozen sweet potatoes can be used, but they may release extra moisture. If using frozen, cook the sweet potatoes first before adding the veggies to ensure they cook evenly.

3. Can I cook this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can roast the sweet potatoes and vegetables in the oven instead of cooking them on the stovetop. Simply toss the veggies and sweet potatoes with olive oil and seasonings, and roast in a 400°F oven for about 20-25 minutes while the chicken cooks on the stove.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead of time. Cook the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in separate containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat everything together in the skillet.

5. Can I make this recipe with other protein sources?

Yes, this dish works well with other proteins such as turkey breasts, pork chops, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time to suit the protein you use.

6. How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?

To ensure the chicken stays juicy, don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and remove it from the skillet once it reaches that temperature.

7. How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?

The sweet potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. They should be golden brown on the edges and soft on the inside.

8. Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, adding cheese such as shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or crumbled feta on top of the chicken and veggies in the last few minutes of cooking can make the dish even more flavorful and indulgent.

9. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can skip the chicken and use a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, or simply load up the vegetables for a hearty vegetarian meal.

10. Can I use other seasonings?

Feel free to get creative with your seasonings! You can add rosemary, thyme, Italian seasoning, or even curry powder for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a nutritious meal that’s full of flavor and easy to clean up. The combination of tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and fresh vegetables makes this skillet meal a balanced and satisfying option. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen!

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