Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet – A Healthy One-Pan Meal

If you’re looking for a simple, hearty, and nutritious meal, this Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is the perfect choice! This dish features juicy, seasoned chicken, tender sweet potatoes, and savory spices, all cooked together in one skillet for an easy and delicious meal.

This recipe is great for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy dinner. It’s packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a balanced and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!
✔ Nutritious & Balanced – High in protein, fiber, and vitamins.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
✔ Customizable – Adjust the spices and ingredients to your liking.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients for Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Skillet:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a slight kick)
• ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale (optional, for extra nutrients)

For Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

✔ Large Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan – For even cooking and great flavor.
✔ Mixing Bowls – To season the chicken.
✔ Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurate ingredient portions.
✔ Wooden Spoon or Spatula – To stir and cook everything evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. In a mixing bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes and onion, cooking for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer and Soften the Sweet Potatoes

1. Pour in ½ cup chicken broth and cover the skillet.
2. Let it cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
3. If using, stir in fresh spinach or kale and let it wilt for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
2. Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro and red pepper flakes if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful, one-pan meal!

Tips for the Best Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

✔ Cut Sweet Potatoes Evenly – This helps them cook at the same rate.
✔ Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet – Cooking in batches ensures proper browning.
✔ Use a Cast-Iron Pan – It enhances flavor and creates a nice sear on the chicken.
✔ Adjust the Spice Level – Add more chili powder or red pepper flakes for heat.
✔ Make it Creamy – Stir in a little coconut milk or Greek yogurt for extra richness.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Make it Dairy-Free – This recipe is already dairy-free, but you can add avocado slices for creaminess.
Try a Different Protein – Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a twist.
Add More Vegetables – Try zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Make it Vegan – Use chickpeas or black beans instead of chicken and swap broth for vegetable broth.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water until warmed through.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead and store them in the fridge, then cook when ready.

What can I serve with this skillet meal?

It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients (except spinach) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the spinach at the end.

How do I make it spicier?

Increase the chili powder and red pepper flakes, or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly since frozen sweet potatoes cook faster.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is a nutritious, flavorful, and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Packed with lean protein, fiber, and bold spices, it’s a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a simple, wholesome meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. Don’t forget to share it with family and friends—they’ll love it just as much as you do!

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