If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup, this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken pieces perfectly spiced and paired with sweet, soft sweet potatoes, all cooked in one skillet to lock in flavors and make weeknight dinners a breeze. This vibrant, nutritious dish not only tastes amazing but also fills your kitchen and home with an irresistible aroma that makes you want to dive right in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe plays a key role in creating a balanced mix of flavors, textures, and colors. From the juicy chicken to the earthy spices, each element combines effortlessly to deliver a satisfying meal.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: The lean protein base that cooks quickly and soaks up the spices beautifully.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced: Adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture when tender.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and bringing a subtle richness to the dish.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Provides a savory foundation with mild sweetness once cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic boost that’s essential in any skillet dish.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth that ties all the flavors together.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings earthy, slightly nutty notes that enrich every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a hint of herbal brightness to complement the spices.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: The simple seasonings that elevate all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish juicy while helping to soften the sweet potatoes perfectly.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds pops of acidity and freshness to balance the richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat for those who like a bit of a kick.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: A vibrant green that wilts down to add nutrition and color without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, herbal finish that brightens the entire skillet.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sautéing these until fragrant—about 2 to 3 minutes—builds the perfect flavor base and softens the onion just enough to be sweet without losing its bite.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken with Spices
Add the chicken pieces directly to the skillet. Then sprinkle on the smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cooking the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes until it’s lightly browned locks in juiciness and allows those warm spices to coat every piece, promising flavor with every bite.
Step 3: Simmer Sweet Potatoes
Next, stir in the diced sweet potatoes carefully so they mingle with the chicken and spices. Pour the chicken broth over everything, then cover the skillet. Allow it to simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender enough to melt in your mouth without losing their shape.
Step 4: Add Cherry Tomatoes and Optional Heat
Once your sweet potatoes are almost done, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and, if you like, the red pepper flakes. Cooking these together for 2 more minutes lets the tomatoes soften while adding a fresh burst of acidity and a touch of spice that creates perfect balance.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Finally, stir in the fresh spinach. It will wilt quickly, in about 1 to 2 minutes, creating bursts of bright green that subtly blend with the earthy warmth of the rest of the skillet.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove your skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish generously with fresh chopped parsley. This last touch adds a delightful freshness and color contrast. Then, serve it warm straight from the skillet for an effortlessly beautiful meal.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic garnish here because it adds a clean, herbal nuance that contrasts with the smoky paprika and cumin. You can also try a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for extra brightness or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add creaminess and cool down any heat from those red pepper flakes.
Side Dishes
Though this skillet makes a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread is delightful. If you want to get creative, try serving it alongside a fluffy couscous or a fluffy quinoa salad to catch all those flavorful juices at the bottom of the pan.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or a casual family meal, serve this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe directly in the skillet right at the table. It creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere and keeps the food warm longer. Alternatively, plating it with the spinach on top and the sweet potatoes spread around creates a beautiful colorful presentation that feels both rustic and elegant.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftovers will keep well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day lunch or dinner option that only needs reheating.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely if you want to batch cook. Cool it completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 2 months without losing those rich flavors, making weeknight dinners even easier.
Reheating
To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until just heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help prevent the sweet potatoes from drying out during reheating, keeping every bite moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and a richer flavor. Just keep in mind the cooking time might be slightly longer to ensure they’re fully cooked through.
What can I substitute for sweet potatoes if I don’t have any?
Russet potatoes or butternut squash can be great substitutes. They each bring their own taste and texture, but you might need to adjust simmering time based on how quickly they soften.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe is mild, but the optional red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. Feel free to adjust or omit the flakes to suit your spice level.
Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?
Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms work wonderfully here. Just add them during the simmering step and adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. It’s a wholesome meal perfect for many dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe enough for busy cooks looking to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal with minimal fuss. Every ingredient works together to make something truly comforting and nourishing. Give it a try tonight—you’ll be amazed at how quickly and easily you can create something this delicious from your own kitchen!
Print
One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is a quick and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed with aromatic spices and combined with sweet potatoes, cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all cooked together in a single skillet for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.
- Add Sweet Potatoes and Broth, Then Simmer: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes, if using. Cook uncovered for an additional 2 minutes to soften the tomatoes and blend the flavors.
- Add Spinach and Finish Cooking: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts down. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness, and serve warm straight from the pan.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- Swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes or butternut squash for variation.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it suitable for vegetarians (also substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas).
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through completely; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
