There’s something magical about a dish that’s both simple and satisfying, and this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is exactly that. Imagine coming home after a long day and whipping up a meal that fills your kitchen with the aroma of roasted sweet potatoes, juicy chicken, and earthy herbs—all in just one pan. It’s like a comforting hug in food form, perfect for cozy dinners with family or even a quiet night in.
This recipe is a celebration of wholesome ingredients coming together to create something that feels indulgent yet remains healthy and balanced. Sweet potatoes, with their natural caramelized sweetness, pair beautifully with the savory notes of tender chicken thighs (or breasts if you prefer). And the best part? It’s all done in a single skillet, saving you from a pile of dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress your dinner guests, this dish has your back. Its versatility means you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Busy Days: With minimal prep and quick cooking time, it’s an excellent choice for weeknights when time is limited.
- Nutritionally Balanced: Packed with protein, healthy carbs, and a dose of vitamins and minerals, it’s a meal that leaves you feeling good.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less time washing dishes means more time to relax and savor your meal.
- Customizable Goodness: You can switch up the veggies, add different herbs, or adjust the seasoning to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or substitute with 2 large chicken breasts)
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Herbs: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Lemon Juice (Optional): 1 tablespoon, for a bright finish
How to Make One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken dry with a paper towel—this helps it sear beautifully. Season both sides generously with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the chicken in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and gives the chicken that delicious crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes and Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and cook for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
Next, add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it!
Add the sweet potato cubes to the skillet. Season them with a pinch of salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Stir to coat the sweet potatoes in the flavorful oil and aromatics.
Cook the sweet potatoes for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should start to soften and develop a light caramelized crust.
3. Combine and Finish
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything cook together for another 8-10 minutes over medium-low heat.
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and the sweet potatoes should be fork-tender. If you like, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the dish for a bright, zesty finish.
Helpful Tips
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you have one, a cast-iron skillet is perfect for this recipe. It retains heat beautifully, ensuring even cooking.
- Cut Sweet Potatoes Evenly: To ensure they cook at the same rate, dice the sweet potatoes into uniformly sized pieces.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Browning the chicken first adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Fresh Herbs Are Key: While dried herbs work in a pinch, fresh thyme or rosemary really elevates the flavor.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Notes
- Feel free to substitute sweet potatoes with butternut squash or regular potatoes if that’s what you have.
- You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 320
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well too. Just be mindful not to overcook them, as they tend to dry out more easily than thighs.
What other vegetables can I use?
You can add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish reheats wonderfully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage Instructions
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
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Conclusion
This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is more than just a recipe—it’s a go-to for those moments when you need something hearty, healthy, and downright delicious. The simplicity of this dish makes it perfect for any occasion, while its vibrant flavors ensure it’s never boring.
Try it out, and don’t forget to share your kitchen adventures with family and friends. Happy cooking!
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One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet
Description
There’s something magical about a dish that’s both simple and satisfying, and this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is exactly that. Imagine coming home after a long day and whipping up a meal that fills your kitchen with the aroma of roasted sweet potatoes, juicy chicken, and earthy herbs—all in just one pan. It’s like a comforting hug in food form, perfect for cozy dinners with family or even a quiet night in.
This recipe is a celebration of wholesome ingredients coming together to create something that feels indulgent yet remains healthy and balanced. Sweet potatoes, with their natural caramelized sweetness, pair beautifully with the savory notes of tender chicken thighs (or breasts if you prefer). And the best part? It’s all done in a single skillet, saving you from a pile of dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress your dinner guests, this dish has your back. Its versatility means you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or substitute with 2 large chicken breasts)
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Herbs: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Lemon Juice (Optional): 1 tablespoon, for a bright finish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken dry with a paper towel—this helps it sear beautifully. Season both sides generously with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the chicken in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and gives the chicken that delicious crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes and Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and cook for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
Next, add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it!
Add the sweet potato cubes to the skillet. Season them with a pinch of salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Stir to coat the sweet potatoes in the flavorful oil and aromatics.
Cook the sweet potatoes for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should start to soften and develop a light caramelized crust.
3. Combine and Finish
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything cook together for another 8-10 minutes over medium-low heat.
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and the sweet potatoes should be fork-tender. If you like, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the dish for a bright, zesty finish.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute sweet potatoes with butternut squash or regular potatoes if that’s what you have.
- You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
