One Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

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When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity and flavor are key. This One Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe checks all the boxes: it’s quick, nutritious, and packed with bold flavors. With tender, juicy chicken paired with caramelized sweet potatoes and a medley of savory seasonings, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes this dish ideal for hectic evenings.
2. Healthy and Balanced: A nutritious combination of lean protein, fiber-rich sweet potatoes, and fresh veggies.
3. Bursting with Flavor: A blend of herbs and spices elevates the taste.
4. Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cut the Chicken: Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
2. Dice the Sweet Potatoes: Ensure sweet potatoes are uniformly diced to promote even caramelization.
3. Chop the Vegetables: Dice the bell peppers and slice the red onion. Mince the garlic for added flavor.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. Mix the Spices: Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
2. Coat the Chicken: Rub the spice mixture onto the chicken pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat the Skillet: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

1. Add Sweet Potatoes: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet. Add the diced sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Cook Until Tender: Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are slightly caramelized and fork-tender.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

1. Incorporate Bell Peppers and Onion: Add the diced bell peppers and sliced red onion to the skillet with the sweet potatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
2. Add Garlic and Spinach: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

1. Return Chicken to Skillet: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sweet potatoes and vegetables.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
2. Serve Hot: Plate the dish and serve with a wedge of lemon for added brightness.

Tips for Success

1. Even Cooking: Cut all ingredients into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
2. High Heat Searing: Sear the chicken on high heat for a golden crust and juicy interior.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Work in batches if needed to prevent steaming instead of browning.
4. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version.
2. Add More Veggies: Incorporate zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for additional nutrients.
3. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
4. Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or feta cheese on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

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This One Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet pairs wonderfully with:

• Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty skillet.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for scooping up the delicious juices.
• Quinoa or Rice: For extra carbs, pair it with a side of fluffy quinoa or steamed rice.

Conclusion

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This One Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is a game-changer for busy nights when you want a flavorful, balanced meal without the hassle. With its vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and satisfying textures, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Prep Time
10 minutes

Cook Time
30 minutes

Total Time
40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup baby spinach (optional, for added greens)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Skillet

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika.
3. Sauté the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes

1. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet.
2. Toss in the diced sweet potatoes and season with the remaining smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, and chili powder (if using).
3. Stir well to coat the sweet potatoes with the spices.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.

3. Add the Aromatics

1. Push the sweet potatoes to one side of the skillet.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the cleared side of the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

4. Combine and Finish

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it with the sweet potatoes and aromatics.
2. Stir in the baby spinach (if using) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.

5. Serve

1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Serve hot as a complete meal or with a side of crusty bread or rice for added heartiness.

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