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BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl topped with avocado, corn, black beans and cilantro in white bowl

BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl

Smoky barbecue chicken paired with caramelized roasted sweet potatoes and fresh vibrant toppings. Perfect for meal prep or quick family dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts about 2 large breasts
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided: 1 tablespoon for sweet potatoes, 1 tablespoon for chicken
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika recommended
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce plus more for drizzling
  • 1 avocado diced, optional
  • 1/2 cup canned corn drained, optional
  • 1/2 cup black beans rinsed and drained, optional
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion optional
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro optional
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Monterey Jack, optional
  • 2 tablespoons sliced green onions optional

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Airtight containers for meal prep

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated. Spread them out on the baking sheet in a single layer without crowding. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized with golden brown edges.
  2. While sweet potatoes roast, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
  3. Slice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then toss it with warm BBQ sauce in a bowl until fully coated with a glossy appearance.
  4. Divide the roasted sweet potatoes among bowls. Top with BBQ chicken and any optional toppings like avocado slices, corn, black beans, red onion, cilantro, cheese, or green onions. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce if desired.
  5. For meal prep: Let all components cool to room temperature, then store each one separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Assemble fresh bowls throughout the week.

Notes

Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for extra juiciness and may take an extra minute or two per side to reach 165°F. Can bake chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead of stovetop cooking. Choose firm, brightly colored sweet potatoes without soft spots. Freezes well for up to 3 months when storing components separately, but leave out fresh toppings and add after reheating. Add brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a heartier meal.