How to make a hearty one-skillet Harvest Chicken Hash packed with tender chicken, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, and apples for a satisfying dinner in 40 minutes.
This Harvest Chicken Hash brings together tender chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, and autumn flavors in about 40 minutes using just one skillet. It’s a straightforward weeknight dinner that doesn’t require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
I started making this hash on Sunday afternoons when I wanted something cozy but didn’t feel like following a complicated recipe. The sweet potatoes get perfectly caramelized, the brussels sprouts add a satisfying crunch, and those apple chunks? They practically melt into the dish, creating pockets of sweetness that balance all the savory elements. My kids actually ask for seconds, which is saying something when vegetables are involved. The best part is how adaptable it is – you can prep everything ahead, swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge, and have dinner on the table faster than ordering takeout.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Harvest Chicken Hash
I always use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they cook quickly and evenly, though you can absolutely use thighs if that’s what you have on hand. The key is cutting everything into similar-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate. My preference is orange-fleshed sweet potatoes because they caramelize beautifully, but Japanese sweet potatoes work great too.
2 chicken breasts, diced
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups)
1 cup brussels sprouts, halved and tough outer leaves removed
1 medium apple, cored and chopped – In my experience, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape better
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced – I usually add an extra clove because we love garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped – My preference is fresh over dried for this recipe
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste – Pro tip: season in layers rather than all at once
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend getting all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking – this makes the process much smoother and ensures nothing overcooks while you’re chopping.
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes total, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out – those browned bits add flavor), add the diced onions and cook for 2 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant. Watch carefully here because garlic can burn quickly.
Step 3: Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the skillet and spread them into an even layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes, until they’re fork-tender and developing golden-brown edges. If they stick to the pan, add 2-3 tablespoons of water or broth and scrape gently. Similar to maple glazed chicken with sweet potatoes, getting good caramelization on the sweet potatoes makes all the difference.
Step 4: Toss in the halved brussels sprouts and chopped apples. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the brussels sprouts turn bright green and develop some char spots, and the apples soften slightly while still holding their shape.
Step 5: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the rosemary and thyme. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld and ensure everything is heated through.
Perfect Pairings for Your Harvest Hash
This hash is hearty enough to stand alone, but these sides add wonderful textural contrast and round out the meal beautifully.
Simple Mixed Greens Salad: A crisp salad with arugula, spinach, and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the hash and adds a refreshing element. The bitterness of the greens complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.
Roasted Root Vegetables: If you want to double down on fall flavors, try pairing this with sheet pan sausage and veggies for a complete autumn-inspired dinner spread.
Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter, lower-carb option, cauliflower rice adds volume without competing with the hash’s robust flavors. It’s especially good if you’re watching your carbohydrate intake.
Sautéed Kale with Lemon: Quickly sautéed kale with a squeeze of fresh lemon adds a pop of color, extra nutrients, and a bright citrus note that lifts the entire dish. This combination works similarly to chicken with mixed vegetable stir fry.
Store leftover hash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend storing it in single-serving portions for easy grab-and-go lunches. The flavors actually develop even more overnight, making leftovers particularly delicious. Note: Sweet potatoes will soften slightly when reheated but maintain good flavor.
For reheating, I prefer using a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Microwave reheating works in a pinch – just cover the container and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
This hash is incredibly versatile beyond dinner. Top it with a fried or poached egg for a protein-packed breakfast, similar to how you’d serve honey bbq chicken rice. Pro tip: Make a double batch on Sunday and enjoy easy, nutritious meals throughout the week.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay even more tender. They may need an extra minute or two of cooking time due to their higher fat content.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs work in a pinch – use 1/3 the amount called for (so about 1/3 teaspoon each of dried rosemary and thyme). Add them earlier in the cooking process to allow their flavors to bloom.
Can this be made ahead for meal prep?
Yes! Prep all your vegetables and store them separately in containers. The actual cooking takes only 25 minutes, so you can quickly assemble it on a busy weeknight. You can also cook the entire dish ahead and reheat portions as needed.
Conclusion
This Harvest Chicken Hash proves that wholesome, delicious dinners don’t require complicated techniques or fancy ingredients. With simple preparation and one skillet, you’ll have a meal that satisfies everyone at the table while sneaking in plenty of vegetables. Give this recipe a try this week and discover how easy it is to bring comforting, seasonal flavors to your dinner routine.
Harvest Chicken Hash
A hearty one-skillet dish combining tender chicken, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, apples, and aromatic herbs for a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onions and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add brussels sprouts and chopped apples, cooking for another 5 minutes until tender.
Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in rosemary and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
Store in airtight container for up to 3 days. Can substitute chicken thighs for richer flavor. Swap sweet potatoes with butternut squash or brussels sprouts with zucchini. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat. Great for meal prep.
a recipe developer, food enthusiast, and busy parent based in Denver, CO. I created Yumnights because I believe that delicious, healthy dinners shouldn’t require hours in the kitchen or a culinary degree to master.
