Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a one-pan meal, and this Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is no exception. Imagine succulent pieces of chicken sautéed to perfection alongside tender chunks of sweet potatoes, all enhanced by an aromatic blend of spices and fresh herbs. This dish captures the essence of home cooking, where simplicity meets flavor, and each bite delivers a satisfying combination of sweetness and savory goodness. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or someone prepping for healthy meal options, this recipe checks all the boxes.
In this article, we’ll share how to make this delightful skillet dish that offers a nutritious balance of protein, complex carbohydrates, and vitamins. You will learn about the cooking techniques that ensure perfectly cooked chicken and sweet potatoes, as well as some variations to customize the dish to your liking.
What Is Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet?
Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is a versatile and nutrient-packed dish that combines seared chicken breast pieces with sweet potatoes in a single pan. This dish originated from the comfort food traditions of both American and Southern cuisines, where hearty meals often center around protein and starch. The combination of chicken and sweet potatoes is not only delicious but also provides a wonderful balance of flavors — savory, sweet, and slightly spicy.
The texture of the chicken remains juicy and tender due to the direct heat from the skillet, while the sweet potatoes become creamy on the inside yet crisp on the outside when prepared properly. By sautéing the chicken and sweet potatoes in the same pan, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that can be on your table in under an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet
You’ll love this Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet for its incredible taste, ease of preparation, and health benefits. The dish is packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the sweet potatoes. By cooking everything in one skillet, not only do you save time on cleanup, but you also retain flavors that might be lost in separate cooking methods.
Some common misconceptions about skillet dishes include the idea that they are difficult or time-consuming to prepare, which couldn’t be further from the truth. This recipe breaks that myth by providing a straightforward cooking method that even beginners can master. In comparison to other chicken dishes that may require multiple steps, this skillet meal simplifies the process without compromising on taste or nutrition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 chicken breasts – Fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. You can also use thighs if you prefer darker meat. They are great sources of lean protein and can be cooked quickly in a skillet.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes – Peeled and diced into cubes. Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness and are high in fiber and vitamins.
- 1 onion – Diced, to add depth of flavor. Sweet or brown onions are best for this recipe.
- 2 cloves garlic – Minced, for aromatics. Garlic adds a wonderful flavor and contributes health benefits as well.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – To enhance the dish’s color and flavor. You can use sweet smoked paprika for an extra smoky taste.
- Salt and pepper – For seasoning, according to your taste preferences.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing. Olive oil not only helps with browning but adds healthy fats.
- Fresh parsley – Chopped, for garnish. It adds a pop of color and bright flavor to the dish.
How to Make Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet:
- Prepare the ingredients: Begin by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes before dicing them into even cubes, about 1-inch in size. This ensures they cook evenly. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Set these ingredients aside for easy access later.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika for added flavor. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken in the skillet. Sear for about 6-7 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through, golden, and has an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sweat it for about 3-4 minutes until they turn translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. The garlic should be gently sautéed to prevent burning, which can make it taste bitter.
- Add sweet potatoes: Now add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir well to mix with the onion and garlic. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow them to cook for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally, so they don’t stick to the bottom. The sweet potatoes should become tender throughout.
- Combine and finish cooking: Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Allow everything to cook together for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is heated through, and the sweet potatoes have begun to caramelize slightly. The flavors will meld together beautifully during this final cooking step.
- Garnish and serve: Once done, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for color and serve immediately. This dish is perfect alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
3 Variations & Substitutions
Spicy Chicken and Sweet Potatoes: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce when seasoning the chicken. This variation brings heat that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the potatoes.
Herb-Infused Skillet: If you love the taste of fresh herbs, you can easily switch out the parsley for thyme or rosemary. Adding these herbs while sautéing the onion will infuse the entire dish with aromatic flavors, elevating the overall taste.
Vegetarian Sweet Potato Skillet: For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with chickpeas or black beans for protein and skip the chicken broth during preparation. The sweet potatoes can keep this dish filling, while the beans add a fantastic texture and flavor to the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake when making a Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, ruining the nice texture you’re aiming for. Ensure there is enough space between pieces for even cooking. Another critical cooking warning is cooking chicken at too high a temperature. While you want to achieve a nice sear, burning the outside will leave the inside undercooked. Always use a meat thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Lastly, when adding the garlic, be careful not to let it brown too much as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to the dish. For a flavorful outcome, remain attentive during this step.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To store leftovers of your Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat. Adding a little water can help to steam it back to life and prevent it from drying out.
If you want to prepare the dish in advance, it can also be frozen. Ensure to separate it into portions, and store them in freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in a skillet until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen sweet potatoes in this recipe?
Yes, frozen sweet potatoes can be used, but they may release excess moisture. To avoid a watery skillet, be sure to drain any excess liquid before adding them to the skillet. However, fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is already dairy-free since it doesn’t include any dairy ingredients. Just ensure that any toppings or sides served with the dish also align with a dairy-free diet.
What can I serve with this Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it with a side of quinoa or brown rice to complement the flavors and textures.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! Feel free to swap chicken for turkey, pork, or even shrimp. Each protein will provide its distinct flavor profile and can be cooked similarly. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat you choose.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can prep ingredients in advance by washing, peeling, or chopping the vegetables and marinating the chicken. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to cook the dish fresh just before serving.
Conclusion:
This Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor, comfort, and warmth that brings families together at the dinner table. The combination of juicy chicken and naturally sweet potatoes makes it a wholesome dish that is simple to prepare and delicious to enjoy. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe today and feel free to customize it to fit your family’s preferences. Share this delightful skillet meal with your friends and family, and inspire them to create their own version. Cooking is all about love, creativity, and sharing!
