There is something incredibly satisfying about a hearty, flavorful dish that all comes together in one pan, and this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is exactly that kind of dinner bliss. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts perfectly seasoned and nestled among sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes and vibrant bell peppers, all infused with fragrant herbs and a bright touch of lemon. This recipe is a deliciously balanced meal that brings comfort and freshness in every bite, making it your new go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, fresh, and work harmoniously to create a dish packed with texture, flavor, and colorful appeal. Each plays a crucial role—from the sweetness of the potatoes to the aromatic herbs enhancing the chicken’s savoriness.
- Olive oil: A healthy fat that helps sear the chicken and soften the veggies beautifully.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein star of the dish, perfect for quick cooking and soaking up flavors.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasoning that elevates every ingredient’s natural taste.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, warm depth without overpowering the dish.
- Paprika: Gives a gentle smoky sweetness and a gorgeous color to the chicken.
- Large sweet potatoes: Cubed for even cooking, their natural sweetness complements the savory chicken perfectly.
- Red and green bell peppers: Provide freshness, crunch, and vibrant color contrasts.
- Red onion: Adds a mild sharpness and caramelizes nicely during cooking.
- Minced garlic cloves: Intensifies the savory aroma and taste that makes the dish mouthwatering.
- Dried thyme and rosemary: Earthy herbs that bring a fragrant, comforting layer of flavor.
- Chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and creates a flavorful pan sauce.
- Lemon juice: Injects brightness and balances out the richness of the chicken and sweet potatoes.
- Fresh parsley: Used as garnish for a fresh, herbal finish and a pop of green.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil and Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, season your chicken breasts with salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. The seasoning forms a flavorful crust once seared, locking in juiciness and creating a beautiful golden exterior.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a golden-brown sear that signals the start of deliciousness. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside—this step ensures that your chicken stays tender and moist later.
Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
To the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the cubed sweet potatoes. Stir occasionally for 5 to 6 minutes until they begin to soften and take on a slight golden color. This initial cooking jumpstarts the tenderness and lets the sweet potato’s natural sugars develop.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
The red and green bell peppers, along with the sliced red onion and minced garlic, join the party next. Cook the mixture for an additional 4 to 5 minutes so that the veggies soften just enough but still keep a touch of their crisp texture and vibrant color.
Step 5: Infuse with Herbs and Deglaze
Sprinkle dried thyme and rosemary evenly over the vegetables, stirring to blend their fragrant flavors throughout. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, then stir, using your spatula to scrape up all those tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This step is pure flavor magic, turning your pan into a luscious sauce base.
Step 6: Return the Chicken and Simmer
Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them comfortably among the veggies. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Let everything cook together for about 10 to 15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender. This slow mingling blends all the flavors into one irresistible, wholesome meal.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is the perfect finishing touch, adding a bright herbal note and a splash of color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving enhances the brightness and lifts all the savory elements beautifully.
Side Dishes
This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is a full meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or even some fluffy quinoa or rice to soak up any leftover pan sauce. The possibilities are endless!
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique presentation, try serving this dish family-style right from the skillet, garnished with extra herbs and lemon wedges. It creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere and encourages sharing around the table. Alternatively, slice the chicken breasts and arrange atop the vegetables on individual plates for a more formal touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen with time, making it a convenient option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you separate the chicken and vegetables into portions. Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water while reheating can help maintain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a little more fat and flavor, and they stay juicy even if slightly overcooked. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water with a bit of added seasoning works fine. The broth mainly adds moisture and flavor, so enhancing it with herbs or a bouillon cube can easily keep the dish tasty.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for hearty plant-based proteins like chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh. Adjust the cooking times and seasonings as needed, and you’ll still get a delicious, satisfying meal.
Is it okay to cook the chicken fully before adding the vegetables?
Seared chicken helps develop flavor and texture, but you don’t want it fully cooked too early since it continues to cook with the vegetables. Partially cooking then finishing together ensures the chicken stays juicy and the veggies don’t overcook.
How spicy is this recipe?
This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you want a little kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during seasoning for a gentle heat boost.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s packed with bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and requires minimal cleanup, this One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe should quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s warm, satisfying, and approachable for cooks of any skill level, making it perfect to share with family or friends on any night of the week. Give it a try—you might find it’s the delicious solution you’ve been looking for!
Print
One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are seared and then cooked alongside sweet potatoes, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic herbs in a single skillet. The dish is deglazed with chicken broth and lemon juice for a bright, savory finish, making cleanup easy and the cooking process straightforward.
Ingredients
Proteins and Seasonings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs and Liquids
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for searing the chicken.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for enhanced flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove them and set aside temporarily.
- Cook the sweet potatoes: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet and toss in the cubed sweet potatoes. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
- Add vegetables and garlic: Stir in the chopped red and green bell peppers, sliced red onion, and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Season the vegetables: Sprinkle dried thyme and rosemary over the vegetables, stirring well to combine all the flavors.
- Deglaze the skillet: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice to deglaze, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the pan for deeper flavor.
- Return the chicken: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back among the vegetables in the skillet for the final cooking phase.
- Simmer covered: Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the paprika.
- If you prefer, use skin-on chicken breasts and sear skin side down first for crispier texture.
