Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience: This dish requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is ideal for those short on time.
- Flavorful and nutritious: The combination of juicy chicken and sweet potatoes creates a satisfying, healthy meal.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit various dietary needs and flavor preferences.
- Family-friendly: A dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making dinner time a breeze.
Ingredients & Preparation Notes
- Chicken breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking and easy eating. Cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Sweet potatoes: Choose firm, unblemished sweet potatoes. Peel and dice into 1/2-inch cubes for the best texture.
- Olive oil: Use a good quality olive oil for sautéing to enhance flavor.
- Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper create a simple yet delicious flavor profile. Feel free to adjust to taste.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the dish. Low-sodium options are available for those watching their salt intake.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Substitute with cilantro or green onions if preferred.
Professional Tips & Techniques
- Even browning: Ensure the chicken pieces are spaced out in the skillet to allow for even browning. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Temperature control: Maintain medium-high heat when browning the chicken, then reduce to medium-low for simmering. This helps cook the sweet potatoes evenly without burning.
- Doneness check: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached 165°F internally. Sweet potatoes should be tender but not mushy.
- Resting time: Allowing the dish to rest for 5 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicier version.
- Herb infusion: Include 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary for an herby flavor.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a meatless meal.
- Cheesy delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or feta cheese over the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Autumn harvest: Add diced apples or pears along with the sweet potatoes for a seasonal twist.
- Mediterranean flair: Include 1/4 cup of kalamata olives and 1 tablespoon of capers for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.
- Sweet and savory: Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a sweet-savory flavor.
- Low-carb alternative: Replace sweet potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb option.
Serving Suggestions
- Family dinner: Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal. Pair with a simple green salad for a complete dinner.
- Weeknight meal prep: Divide into individual portions for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Elegant presentation: Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs for a more formal dinner.
- Side dish ideas: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, roasted Brussels sprouts, or sautéed spinach for added nutrition.
- Wine pairing: A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp rosé complements the flavors of this dish.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the ingredients and seasoning mix in advance for quicker assembly. The entire dish can be cooked ahead and reheated when ready to serve.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the entire dish ahead and reheat when ready to serve. It also stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q: What can I use instead of sweet potatoes?
A: Try using butternut squash, carrots, or even cauliflower for a different flavor and texture.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to adjust cooking time. Bone-in chicken may take longer to cook through.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
Q: What if I don’t have chicken broth?
A: You can use vegetable broth or even water with a bit of extra seasoning as a substitute.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicier flavor.
Conclusion
The Chicken Sweet Potato Skillet is a versatile, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Its one-pan convenience, quick preparation, and customizable nature make it a go-to recipe for any home cook. Give it a try and enjoy a flavorful, nutritious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Don’t forget to share your results on social media and let us know what variations you tried!
Chicken Sweet Potato Skillet
Equipment
- Large skillet (preferably cast iron)
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and nearly cooked through.
- Add diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat evenly.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender and chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.