If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances wholesome comfort and vibrant flavors, this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is going to win your heart. It’s a colorful, hearty meal where tender chicken pieces mingle with sweet potatoes, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all cooked in one glorious skillet. The blend of smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano brings warmth and depth, making this recipe a simple yet impressive way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying dinner without the fuss of multiple pots and pans.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each item is purposeful, offering a layer of flavor, texture, or color that makes the dish truly special. From the natural sweetness of the potatoes to the aromatic herbs and spices, every element has been chosen to harmonize and make your taste buds sing.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: These provide tender, juicy protein that absorbs the spices beautifully.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced: Their natural sweetness contrasts wonderfully with the smoky seasonings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A healthy fat that helps sauté the aromatics and gives the chicken a lovely sear.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds depth and sweetness when softened in the pan.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with an irresistible savory base note.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a smoky warmth that highlights the chicken and sweet potatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthy complexity to the seasoning blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers herbal brightness for balance.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances and rounds out all the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and melds the ingredients during simmering.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Pops of juiciness and acidity that lighten every bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick if you like a little heat.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Wilts down into the skillet, providing freshness and vibrant color.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A final touch for brightness and herbaceous aroma.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics to Kickstart Flavor
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This step builds a flavorful foundation that will infuse the entire dish with savory goodness.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken with Spices
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces straight into the skillet. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to coat the chicken evenly with spices. Let it cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until the chicken takes on a nice light brown color, sealing in the juices and flavor.
Step 3: Simmer Sweet Potatoes to Tender Perfection
Now, stir in the diced sweet potatoes and pour the low-sodium chicken broth over them. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes. Be sure to give it a stir every so often to prevent sticking and to check that the potatoes soften just right—tender but with a slight bite.
Step 4: Add Cherry Tomatoes and a Touch of Heat
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Cook for another 2 minutes. The tomatoes will soften slightly, adding bursts of acidity and color that make this dish visually and flavorfully exciting.
Step 5: Wilt in Fresh Spinach
Finally, stir in the fresh spinach leaves, letting them wilt down over 1 to 2 minutes. This not only adds a wonderful freshness but also a beautiful green contrast to the warm tones of the chicken and sweet potatoes. Give the skillet a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Warm
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top. This last flourish brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal aroma right before serving. Now your One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is ready to be enjoyed with minimal cleanup!
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the fresh parsley garnish, consider a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to elevate the flavors. A dollop of Greek yogurt can also provide lovely creaminess and balance smoky spices, adding an extra layer of comfort.
Side Dishes
This skillet stands strong as a full meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, serve with a crisp green salad or some warm crusty bread to soak up any juices. A simple quinoa or brown rice pilaf pairs beautifully for those who want a bit more heft on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, plate this dish over a bed of fluffy couscous or alongside roasted garlic mashed cauliflower. Alternatively, spoon the skillet ingredients into warm pita pockets topped with crumbled feta for a fun, Mediterranean-inspired twist that’s perfect for casual meals or lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cool, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This meal reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic choice for busy weekdays when you want something nourishing without starting from scratch.
Freezing
If you want to save the One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe for longer, portion it into freezer-safe containers and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the texture of spinach will change after freezing, so it’s best to add fresh greens when reheating if you prefer that fresh bite.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low to medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the mixture moist. You can also microwave for a quick warm-up; just cover to retain moisture. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and enjoy as if freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and a richer flavor, and they work wonderfully in this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe. Just adjust cooking time slightly until thighs are cooked through and tender.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, chickpeas, or tofu. Just be sure to increase cooking times for the veggies as needed and consider using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for best flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If smoked paprika isn’t available, regular paprika or a blend of chili powder and a pinch of cumin can be good substitutes. The smoky undertone will be subtle, but the seasoning blend will still bring warmth and depth.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that enhances the flavors without overpowering. If you prefer it milder, you can leave them out or reduce the amount according to your taste.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes! This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is ideal for making ahead. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer and reheat when ready, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s all about comfort, simplicity, and delightful flavors coming together effortlessly. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone who wants a nourishing meal with minimal cleanup. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll find a permanent spot in your dinner rotation too!
Print
One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 2.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful and nutritious one-pan chicken and sweet potato skillet that combines tender chicken pieces with sweet potatoes, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a healthy balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins all cooked in a single skillet for minimal cleanup.
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
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquids and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook the chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, cumin, 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 simmer: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, then pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Add tomatoes and spices: Mix in the cherry tomatoes and, if desired, red pepper flakes. Cook uncovered for another 2 minutes to allow the tomatoes to soften slightly.
- Wilt the spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts and integrates with the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve the dish warm, enjoying a wholesome and satisfying meal straight from the pan.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
- Sweet potatoes can be swapped for regular potatoes but will require slightly longer cooking time.
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or microwave.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar before serving can brighten the flavors.
