If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve got to try this Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe. It perfectly balances tender, seasoned chicken with sweet, tender sweet potatoes and colorful bell peppers, all simmered in fragrant herbs and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Each bite bursts with vibrant flavors and textures that make weeknight dinners something to look forward to. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a beautiful harmony of taste and texture. Each component plays a key role in delivering depth, color, and heartiness to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing and creating a golden crust on the chicken.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces: Provides lean protein and cooks quickly for a tender, juicy bite.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Basic seasoning that enhances every ingredient.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth that complements the sweet potatoes.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts savory depth without overwhelming the flavor.
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced: Adds natural sweetness along with a soft, velvety texture when cooked.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brightens the dish with color and a slight crunch.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Balances the sweetness with a bit of earthiness and freshness.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Brings a mild sweetness and complexity when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle herbal lift that pairs beautifully with chicken and vegetables.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a Mediterranean flair that rounds out the seasoning.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base that helps everything meld together perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Brings a touch of acidity and sweetness to brighten the whole skillet.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and a mild herby finish.
How to Make Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season your chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. This seasoning blend makes the chicken irresistibly flavorful as it browns to a perfect golden color. Cook the chicken for 7 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s cooked through and slightly caramelized. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest briefly.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the diced sweet potatoes. Cooking them directly in the skillet’s flavorful drippings creates an amazing taste layer. Let the sweet potatoes cook undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes so they start to soften and develop a bit of a crust on the edges, which adds wonderful texture to the final dish.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Next, add the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir everything together to combine and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes. During this time, the vegetables soften just enough to meld flavors while still keeping some crispness, providing a delightful contrast to the tender sweet potatoes and juicy chicken.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle dried thyme and oregano evenly over the vegetables, giving the dish a lovely herbal aroma. Pour in the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar, stirring them in to deglaze the pan and lift up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, setting the stage for the flavors to marry beautifully in the next step.
Step 5: Finish Cooking Together
Return the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet, folding them into the vegetables and broth. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes. This slow meld tenderizes the sweet potatoes fully and lets the chicken soak up all those wonderful herbal, tangy, and savory notes, delivering a knockout flavor combination.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the simmering is complete, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. The parsley adds a burst of freshness and a beautiful green touch, making the dish as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Your Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a natural choice to garnish this dish because it adds brightness and a pleasant herbal note that cuts through the richness. For an extra touch, consider a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like things with a little heat or a wedge of lemon on the side for a citrusy lift just before eating.
Side Dishes
This skillet is satisfying enough on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp simple side salad laden with vinaigrette to add a refreshing crunch. You could also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up that scrumptious balsamic-infused sauce or a scoop of fluffy rice to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful presentation, serve the chicken and sweet potatoes over a bed of creamy mashed cauliflower or polenta for comfort food vibes. Or try dividing the skillet into individual shallow bowls for a cozy family-style dinner. Bright colored bowls complement the vibrant vegetables beautifully and make the experience feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day lunch that feels freshly made. Just be sure to cool the dish before refrigerating to keep everything safe and tasty.
Freezing
You can freeze this Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe, too! Allow the dish to cool completely, then package it into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to warm through without drying out the chicken or vegetables. Adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating helps refresh the moisture and flavor. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but stir occasionally to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through, and enjoy the extra richness they bring to the skillet.
What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, a good quality red wine vinegar with a touch of honey or maple syrup can mimic the sweet tanginess. It won’t be exactly the same but will maintain the balance of flavors.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. It’s a great option for those following a gluten-free diet without missing out on any flavor.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Definitely. You can prepare the skillet up to the simmering step, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to eat, reheat gently until warmed through. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights and meal prep.
How can I make the dish spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños with the bell peppers or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken. Adjust the spice level to your comfort and preference.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is one of those meals that feels like it was made just for you—comforting, colorful, and packed with delicious flavors that come together easily in one pan. Whether you’re feeding family or just craving something warm and satisfying, give this recipe a try. It’s sure to become a favorite go-to for cozy dinners all year round!
Print
Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet combines tender, seasoned chicken pieces with sweet potatoes and colorful bell peppers, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. Easily prepared in one pan, this dish is perfect for a comforting and nutritious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Liquids and Garnish
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Sweet Potatoes: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 5-6 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add Vegetables: Add the sliced red and green bell peppers, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Season and Simmer: Sprinkle the dried thyme and oregano over the vegetables, then stir in the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet!
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference, especially the paprika and garlic powder.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Ensure the sweet potatoes are diced uniformly for even cooking.
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
