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

Some nights, you just need a simple, nutritious, and satisfying meal that doesn’t require a pile of dishes. That’s exactly what this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet delivers!

This dish is packed with lean protein, fiber-rich sweet potatoes, and vibrant seasonings, all cooked in one skillet for maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s hearty yet healthy, naturally gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep. The best part? It comes together in 30 minutes or less, making it ideal for busy weeknights!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ One-Pan & Easy Clean-Up – Everything cooks in a single skillet!
✔ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
✔ Perfectly Balanced Flavors – Sweet, savory, and slightly smoky.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!
✔ Versatile & Customizable – Add extra veggies, adjust the spices, or swap the protein.

What Does This Dish Taste Like?

This skillet is a perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and smoky flavors. The chicken is juicy and well-seasoned, while the sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully, adding a subtle natural sweetness. The blend of garlic, paprika, and cumin gives this dish a deep, warm, and slightly smoky taste.

Benefits of This Recipe

High in Protein – Lean chicken breast provides a protein boost.
Nutrient-Dense – Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free – A great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Meal-Prep Friendly – Stores well for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Low-Calorie & Filling – Satisfying without being heavy.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful skillet meal, you’ll need:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
• ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• ½ cup baby spinach or kale (optional, for added greens)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Necessary Tools

✔ Large skillet (preferably cast iron or nonstick)
✔ Wooden spoon or spatula
✔ Sharp knife
✔ Cutting board
✔ Measuring spoons & cups

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your dietary needs, flavor preferences, or what you have on hand. Here are some great options:

Protein Substitutions

• Chicken Thighs – Use boneless, skinless thighs instead of chicken breast for extra juiciness and flavor.
• Ground Turkey or Beef – Brown it in the skillet first, then follow the same steps.
• Shrimp – Add shrimp instead of chicken, but cook it separately and add it back at the end to prevent overcooking.
• Tofu or Chickpeas – For a vegetarian or vegan version, swap the chicken for crispy tofu or canned chickpeas.

Vegetable Additions

Want to boost the nutrition and color? Try adding:

• Bell Peppers – Adds a pop of sweetness and crunch.
• Spinach or Kale – Stir in at the end for extra greens.
• Zucchini or Yellow Squash – Softens beautifully and adds mild sweetness.
• Mushrooms – Absorbs flavors well and adds a hearty texture.
• Brussels Sprouts – Slice thinly and cook with the sweet potatoes for added crunch.

Carb & Grain Substitutes

If you want to stretch this dish into a more filling meal, try serving it with:

• Brown Rice, Quinoa, or Farro – Great for adding fiber and extra protein.
• Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb substitute that soaks up all the flavors.
• Lentils – A great plant-based protein to mix in for extra heartiness.

Spice & Seasoning Variations

• Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne, or chipotle powder.
• Smokier: Increase smoked paprika or add a little bit of liquid smoke.
• Sweeter: Drizzle with a little maple syrup or honey for a touch of natural sweetness.
• Tangier: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or fresh lime juice for brightness.

Sauce Variations

• Creamy Twist: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt, coconut milk, or sour cream at the end for a richer texture.
• Garlic Butter Glaze: Melt butter with minced garlic and drizzle over the dish before serving.
• Soy Sauce or Tamari: For an Asian-inspired flavor, swap salt for soy sauce and add sesame seeds.

Garnish Ideas

Make this dish extra flavorful and visually appealing with:

• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro – A bright, herby finish.
• Avocado Slices – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Toasted Almonds or Pecans – For crunch and nuttiness.
• Feta or Goat Cheese – Crumbles on top for a tangy bite.

How to Make One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili powder, and cook for 4-5 minutes, until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Add the diced sweet potatoes and chicken broth to the skillet. Cover and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Combine & Finish Cooking

Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in lemon juice and spinach or kale (if using).

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

What to Serve with This Dish

✔ On Its Own – It’s a balanced meal with protein, fiber, and healthy carbs.
✔ With Rice or Quinoa – For extra heartiness.
✔ With a Side Salad – A fresh green salad adds a light contrast.
✔ With Roasted Veggies – Extra veggies make it even more nutritious.

Helpful Tips for Making One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

• Cut Sweet Potatoes Evenly: Dice the sweet potatoes into uniform-sized cubes (about ½-inch) to ensure they cook evenly and at the same time as the chicken.
• Use a Large Skillet: A cast-iron skillet or a large nonstick pan works best to prevent overcrowding and help everything cook evenly.
• Sear the Chicken First: Let the chicken develop a golden-brown crust before removing it from the pan. This adds extra flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
• Cover While Cooking Sweet Potatoes: Covering the skillet while the sweet potatoes cook helps steam them so they soften faster. If they start sticking, add a splash of chicken broth or water to deglaze the pan.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: If you like a smoky flavor, add extra smoked paprika. Want more heat? Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or cayenne.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Since the chicken is diced into small pieces, it cooks quickly. Remove it from the pan once browned to prevent it from drying out, then return it later to finish cooking with the sweet potatoes.
• Add Greens for Extra Nutrition: Stir in baby spinach or kale at the end for added vitamins and color.
• Brighten the Flavor with Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the potatoes.
• Make it a Complete Meal: Serve over quinoa, rice, or cauliflower rice for a heartier dish.
• Double the Recipe for Meal Prep: This dish stores well and reheats beautifully, so make extra for easy lunches during the week!

Storage Instructions for One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Proper storage ensures that this dish stays fresh and delicious for days. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigerator

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

Freezer

• This dish freezes well for up to 3 months.
• To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tips

• On the Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
• In the Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
• From Frozen: For best results, let the dish thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. If reheating from frozen, place in a skillet with a small amount of water and heat on low, stirring occasionally.

Avoid Overcooking

To keep the chicken juicy and tender, reheat gently and avoid high heat, which can dry out the meat.

By following these storage and reheating tips, your One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet will taste just as delicious the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep and stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

2. Can I use white potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well as a substitute.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for a plant-based version.

4. What’s the best way to keep chicken tender?

Avoid overcooking—sear it quickly and let it finish cooking when combined with the other ingredients.

5. How can I make this dish spicy?

Add extra chili powder, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper for a kick.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is the perfect quick, healthy, and delicious meal for any night of the week. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and loaded with nutrients, making it a family favorite!

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