When it comes to meals that are easy to whip up and always satisfying, BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls are my absolute favorite! There’s something about that smoky BBQ flavor combined with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes that just makes my taste buds sing. I remember the first time I made this recipe for a backyard barbecue; it was a hit! Everyone was raving about it, and I think I ended up sharing the recipe so many times that summer.
These bowls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite veggies, toppings, and sauces. So, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner for friends, this recipe will surely impress!
What’s in BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls?
Chicken Breasts: Juicy and tender, chicken breasts are the star of this dish. I prefer using organic, free-range chicken whenever possible, as it tends to be more flavorful and healthier.
BBQ Sauce: This is where the magic happens! You can use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce, or if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try making your own? A tangy, smoky sauce really elevates the dish.
Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and packed with nutrients, sweet potatoes are a fantastic base for this bowl. I recommend using medium-sized, firm sweet potatoes for the best results.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps the sweet potatoes roast beautifully. Plus, it adds healthy fats to the dish.
Bell Peppers: I love adding colorful bell peppers to my bowls for a crunchy texture and a nutrient boost. Red, yellow, or green all work, and they’re rich in vitamins.
Red Onion: Sautéed or roasted red onions add a sweet yet savory element to the dish that pairs really well with the other ingredients.
Black Beans: These hearty beans are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. They bring a wonderful creaminess to the bowl.
Avocado: Is it even a bowl if there’s no creamy avocado? I like to add it for a luscious texture and healthy fats.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor and brightens the entire dish. If you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out.
Is BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is a nutritional powerhouse.
Sweet Potatoes: They’re loaded with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants which are fantastic for your skin and immune system.
Chicken: As a lean protein, it helps build muscle and keeps you full longer, making it a smart choice for a balanced diet.
Black Beans: These little beauties are high in protein and fiber which makes them a filling addition that can aid in digestion.
Of course, it’s important to keep an eye on the type of BBQ sauce you use as some can be high in sugar. Opting for a healthier version or making your own can significantly reduce calorie intake while maintaining that delicious flavor!
Ingredients:
– 2 large chicken breasts (serves 4)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 avocado, sliced
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls?
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Roast the sweet potatoes in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden and tender, flipping halfway through.
4. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, cook the chicken. You can either grill it or pan-fry it. If grilling, brush it with BBQ sauce and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. If pan-frying, heat a little olive oil in a skillet, add the chicken, and brush with BBQ sauce while it cooks.
5. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
6. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the sliced red onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they’re tender, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Assemble your bowls by layering the roasted sweet potatoes, chicken strips, sautéed veggies, black beans, and avocado.
8. Drizzle with more BBQ sauce and top with fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips & Variations for BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls:
– Feel free to add more veggies like corn, zucchini, or spinach to boost your bowl’s nutrient content.
– If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu marinated in BBQ sauce.
– You can also switch up the grains! Adding quinoa or brown rice can give the dish a different feel and added texture.
– For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over your bowl before serving.
I hope you give these BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls a try! They are perfect for any occasion and are sure to bring smiles to your dinner table. Don’t forget to share your experience and any tweaks you make. Enjoy and happy cooking!
