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Chicken And Sweet Potato
Sheet-Pan

Chicken And Sweet Potato

Prep20 min
Cook40 min
Total60 min
Serves6
Chicken And Sweet Potato
Golden Chicken and Sweet Potatoes

There's something special about a meal that's not only delicious but also convenient and easy to prepare. As a h​ome cook, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that can be made ahead, stored, and reheated without losing their flavor or texture. That's why I'm excited to share with you my Chicken and Sweet Potato recipe, a perfect combination of protein, complex carbohydrates, and fiber that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

I remember the first time I made this recipe, it was a Sunday afternoon, and I was looking for something that could be cooked in bulk and reheated throughout the week. I had some chicken thighs and sweet potatoes on hand, and I decided to roast them together with some olive oil, salt, and pepper. The result was amazing - the chicken was juicy, and the sweet potatoes were tender and caramelized.

Since then, I've made this recipe countless times, and it's become a favorite in our household. It's perfect for meal prep, and it's also a great option for a weeknight dinner. The best part is that it's incredibly versatile - you can serve it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple green salad.

In this recipe, I'll show you how to make Chicken and Sweet Potato in a way that's both easy and delicious. We'll start by prepping the ingredients, then move on to cooking the chicken and sweet potatoes, and finally, we'll talk about how to store and reheat the dish. Whether you're a busy professional or a stay-at-home parent, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

So, let's get started! This recipe makes 6 servings, and it's perfect for a week of healthy meals. You can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheating is easy - simply microwave or oven-heat until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal prep time.
  • It's perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later use.
  • The combination of chicken and sweet potatoes provides a balanced and nutritious meal.
  • The dish is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides and sauces.
  • It's a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
  • The recipe is easy to customize and can be made with a variety of herbs and spices.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe is the combination of chicken and sweet potatoes, which provides a perfect balance of protein, complex carbohydrates, and fiber. The chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C), ensuring that it's safe to eat and juicy. The sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness and texture.

The cooking technique used in this recipe is also important. By roasting the chicken and sweet potatoes together, we're able to create a delicious and caramelized crust on the outside, while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This is achieved by using a high oven temperature and a short cooking time, which helps to lock in the moisture and flavor.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of layers of seasoning. By seasoning the chicken and sweet potatoes with salt, pepper, and herbs, we're able to add depth and complexity to the dish. This is especially important when reheating the dish, as it helps to bring out the flavors and aromas.

Finally, the resting time is crucial in this recipe. By letting the chicken and sweet potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, we're allowing the juices to redistribute, making the dish even more tender and flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including chicken thighs, sweet potatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You'll also need some fresh herbs, such as thyme and rosemary, to add flavor and aroma to the dish.

When shopping for ingredients, look for chicken thighs that are boneless and skinless, and sweet potatoes that are firm and free of bruises. You can also use other types of potatoes, such as Yukon gold or red potatoes, if you prefer.

  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinlessLook for chicken thighs that are fresh and have no visible signs of spoilage. You can also use chicken breasts or tenders if you prefer.
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubedChoose sweet potatoes that are firm and free of bruises. You can also use other types of potatoes, such as Yukon gold or red potatoes, if you prefer.
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil that has a mild flavor and a high smoke point. You can also use other types of oil, such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil, if you prefer.
  • 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh thymeFresh thyme has a more delicate flavor than dried thyme, and it's worth using if you can find it. You can also use other herbs, such as rosemary or sage, if you prefer.
  • 1 tsp (5g) saltUse a high-quality salt that has a mild flavor and a fine texture. You can also use other types of salt, such as sea salt or kosher salt, if you prefer.
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepperFreshly ground black pepper has a more complex flavor than pre-ground pepper, and it's worth using if you can find it. You can also use other types of pepper, such as white pepper or green pepper, if you prefer.
  • 2 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic that has no visible signs of spoilage. You can also use garlic powder or garlic salt if you prefer.
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedgesUse a fresh lemon that has no visible signs of spoilage. You can also use other types of citrus, such as lime or orange, if you prefer.
  • 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley has a more delicate flavor than dried parsley, and it's worth using if you can find it. You can also use other herbs, such as basil or cilantro, if you prefer.
  • 1/4 cup (60g) grated cheddar cheeseUse a high-quality cheddar cheese that has a mild flavor and a smooth texture. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, if you prefer.
Ingredients for Chicken And Sweet Potato

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlCutting boardChef's knifeMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometerLarge sheet panOven

How to Make Chicken And Sweet Potato

  1. 1
    Preheat the oven to 425 F (220 C).
  2. 2
    In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3
    Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
  4. 4
    Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
  5. 5
    While the chicken is marinating, prepare the sweet potatoes. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, and place them on a large sheet pan.
  6. 6
    Drizzle the sweet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
  7. 7
    Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.
  8. 8
    After the sweet potatoes have roasted for 15 minutes, add the chicken thighs to the sheet pan.
  9. 9
    Continue to roast the chicken and sweet potatoes for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
  10. 10
    Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
  11. 11
    While the chicken and sweet potatoes are resting, prepare the garlic and parsley. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
  12. 12
    To serve, slice the chicken and sweet potatoes, and top with garlic, parsley, and lemon wedges. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, if desired.

Expert Tips

  • Use a high-quality olive oil that has a mild flavor and a high smoke point.
  • Don't overcrowd the sheet pan, as this can prevent the chicken and sweet potatoes from cooking evenly.
  • Let the chicken and sweet potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, as this allows the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld.
  • Use fresh herbs and spices to add flavor and aroma to the dish.
  • Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make the dish your own.
  • Consider using a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not letting the chicken and sweet potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, which can result in a dry and flavorless dish.
  • Overcrowding the sheet pan, which can prevent the chicken and sweet potatoes from cooking evenly.
  • Not using a high-quality olive oil, which can result in a dish that is greasy or flavorless.
  • Not seasoning the chicken and sweet potatoes generously, which can result in a dish that is bland and unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Try using different types of protein, such as chicken breasts or pork tenderloin, for a variation on the recipe.
  • Use different types of potatoes, such as Yukon gold or red potatoes, for a variation on the recipe.
  • Add some heat to the dish by sprinkling red pepper flakes over the chicken and sweet potatoes.
  • Try using different herbs and spices, such as rosemary or thyme, to add flavor and aroma to the dish.
  • Consider adding some other ingredients, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, to the sheet pan for added flavor and nutrition.

What to Serve With Chicken And Sweet Potato

This dish is perfect for serving as a main course, and it can be paired with a variety of sides and sauces. Some options include roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple green salad.

Consider serving the dish with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Roasted vegetablesQuinoaGarlic breadGreen salad

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave or oven-heat until warmed through.

When storing the dish, make sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep the dish fresh.

Consider using airtight containers or freezer bags to store the dish, as this will help to keep it fresh and prevent freezer burn.

When reheating the dish, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C) to ensure food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the internal temperature of cooked chicken?

The internal temperature of cooked chicken should be at least 165 F (74 C).

How long can I store this dish in the fridge?

This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply cool it to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

How do I reheat this dish?

To reheat this dish, simply microwave or oven-heat until warmed through. Make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C) to ensure food safety.

Can I use different types of protein in this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of protein, such as chicken breasts or pork tenderloin, for a variation on the recipe.

What are some other ingredients I can add to this dish?

Some options include Brussels sprouts, carrots, or other root vegetables. You can also add some heat to the dish by sprinkling red pepper flakes over the chicken and sweet potatoes.

How do I prevent the chicken and sweet potatoes from drying out?

To prevent the chicken and sweet potatoes from drying out, make sure to let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, this recipe can be made in advance. Simply cook the chicken and sweet potatoes, then cool them to room temperature. Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Chicken And Sweet Potato

Chicken And Sweet Potato

Make ahead meal prep, chicken and sweet potatoes roasted to perfection, easy to store and reheat, perfect for a week of healthy meals

Prep20 min
Cook40 min
Total60 min
Serves6
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
  • 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tsp (5g) salt
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup (60g) grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425 F (220 C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
  4. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
  5. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the sweet potatoes. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, and place them on a large sheet pan.
  6. Drizzle the sweet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
  7. Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.
  8. After the sweet potatoes have roasted for 15 minutes, add the chicken thighs to the sheet pan.
  9. Continue to roast the chicken and sweet potatoes for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
  10. Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
  11. While the chicken and sweet potatoes are resting, prepare the garlic and parsley. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
  12. To serve, slice the chicken and sweet potatoes, and top with garlic, parsley, and lemon wedges. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, if desired.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

420Calories
35gProtein
30gCarbs
20gFat