There’s nothing quite like a BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl to satisfy your taste buds and fuel your body! I can’t even count how many times I’ve whipped this dish up for friends and family gatherings. It all started one summer when I was trying to impress my then-boyfriend (now husband) with my cooking skills. I thought, “Why not combine juicy BBQ chicken with the subtle sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes?” The result? A hearty, delicious meal that made him fall in love with my cooking—and maybe even with me a bit more too!
What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite veggies, switch up the proteins, or even go plant-based by using jackfruit! Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping, meaning lunch for the week could be as easy as popping your bowls in the microwave. Who doesn’t love a delicious homemade meal without the fuss?
What’s in BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls?
– Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs over breasts because they stay juicy even after baking. Plus, they have a richer flavor that pairs perfectly with BBQ sauce.
– BBQ Sauce: Your favorite brand will do here, but I absolutely love a good homemade sauce—sweet, tangy, and just a bit spicy! Try a low-sugar version if you’re keeping an eye on added sugars.
– Sweet Potatoes: These beauties provide a wonderful sweetness and are full of vitamins and minerals. When I roast them, I toss them with a bit of olive oil and salt to really enhance their flavors.
– Fresh Vegetables: I love adding some colorful bell peppers and crunchy red onions for texture and freshness. Feel free to use whatever veggies you have on hand!
– Avocado: A slice of creamy avocado on top makes this dish even more delicious and adds healthy fats.
– Fresh Cilantro: A little sprinkle of this fragrant herb at the end gives the bowl a fresh kick that brings all the flavors together.
Is BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This bowl is not just a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious powerhouse. Here’s a breakdown of the health benefits:
– Chicken Thighs: A great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Plus, the dark meat offers more iron than other cuts.
– Sweet Potatoes: They’re loaded with fiber, which is great for digestion, and they have a high vitamin A content, which can support your immune system.
– Fresh Vegetables: Adding a variety of colorful vegetables boosts the nutrient profile and adds fiber, which helps keep you feeling full longer.
– Avocado: The healthy fats in avocados are heart-friendly and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
As you can see, this dish is as much about nutrition as it is about flavor!
Ingredients
– 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
– 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups mixed fresh vegetables (bell peppers, red onion, etc.)
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 people, so feel free to double it if you’re feeding a crowd!
How to Make BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Start by tossing the cubed sweet potatoes with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.
3. While the sweet potatoes are baking, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken thighs for about 5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
4. Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should be 165°F).
5. In the same skillet, toss in your fresh vegetables and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re just tender.
6. Once everything is cooked, chop up the chicken into bite-sized pieces and assemble your bowls: place a generous scoop of roasted sweet potatoes, add the BBQ chicken and veggies, and top with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
7. Dig in and enjoy this colorful, hearty meal!
Flavorful Tips for Your Bowl
– Feel free to switch up the protein! Pulled pork, grilled chicken, or even a veggie burger would be amazing.
– Add some grains like quinoa or brown rice for additional fiber and nutrients if you’re looking for a more filling meal.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle some spicy mayo or a squeeze of lime for an extra flavor kick.
I hope you’re as excited to try this BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl recipe as I am to share it with you! There’s something so special about creating a meal filled with love and delicious flavors. If you give it a shot, drop me a comment and let me know how it turned out. I can’t wait to hear about your tasty creations!
