Get ready for a tasty treat with BBQ Chicken and Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls! Juicy chicken smothered in BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with sweet, tender roasted potatoes. Yum!
These bowls are colorful and packed with flavor! I love how easy they are to make, plus they’re great for meal prep. You can have a delicious meal ready in no time. Can’t wait to dig in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here. If you prefer dark meat, thighs are a juicy substitute. Or use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience!
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this dish! For a healthier option, look for a low sugar or homemade version. You can also use teriyaki sauce for a different flavor twist.
Sweet Potatoes: These lend natural sweetness and a lovely texture. For a change, try using butternut squash or regular potatoes. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the type you choose.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is great for balance, but feel free to swap in other veggies like green beans or asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable’s tenderness.
How Do You Roast Sweet Potatoes to Perfection?
Roasting sweet potatoes is simple but can be tricky to get just right. Follow these tips for sweet potatoes that are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
- Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) – this high temp helps create that crispy edge.
- Dice the sweet potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Aim for about 1-inch pieces.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Spread them out in a single layer to make sure they roast instead of steam.
- Flip them halfway through cooking for even browning and crispiness.
Following these steps will give you perfectly roasted sweet potatoes every time!
BBQ Chicken and Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Broccoli:
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- Optional: Additional BBQ sauce for drizzling
- Fresh herbs for garnish (like cilantro or parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes for cooking. If you use a slow cooker, allow 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for the chicken to cook. So, overall, plan for a cozy evening while everything slowly comes together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the sweet potatoes!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the sweet potatoes are well coated. It’s fun to mix them with your hands for even coverage!
3. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Spread those seasoned sweet potatoes onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through to get them golden brown and tender.
4. Cook the Chicken:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, it’s time to make the chicken! Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker and pour your BBQ sauce over them. Set your slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender enough to easily shred with a fork!
5. Prepare the Broccoli:
About 15 minutes before your chicken is done, steam or roast the broccoli florets. It should only take around 5-7 minutes to make them tender.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out and shred it using two forks. Mix it back into the BBQ sauce left in the slow cooker for extra flavor.
7. Assemble the Bowls:
Now, it’s assembly time! Divide the roasted sweet potatoes, shredded BBQ chicken, and steamed broccoli into bowls. If you like, drizzle a bit more BBQ sauce on top and sprinkle with fresh herbs for garnish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish it out while warm and enjoy your tasty BBQ Chicken and Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls. Delicious and hearty!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes offer a great flavor and nutrition, you can substitute them with regular potatoes, Yukon gold, or even butternut squash. Just adjust the roasting time as needed; regular potatoes may take a bit longer to cook until tender.
What If I Don’t Have a Slow Cooker?
No worries! You can cook the chicken on the stovetop instead. Simply sear the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes on each side, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Add the BBQ sauce, and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally until it’s cooked through and tender.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sweet potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
