If you’re searching for a wholesome and vibrant meal that’s both delicious and delightfully easy to prepare, look no further than the One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe. This dish combines tender chunks of chicken with sweet, tender potatoes, bright cherry tomatoes, and nourishing spinach, all infused with warm spices in a single skillet. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas while keeping cleanup minimal. Whether you’re a busy professional, a home cook seeking simplicity, or someone who loves bold flavors, this recipe will quickly become a treasured staple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe lies in its straightforward, yet essential ingredients. Each one brings a unique element—from the sweetness and creaminess of the potatoes to the savory spices that make the chicken pop. Here’s what you’ll need to bring all those flavors together in one perfect pan.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Chicken cooks quickly and absorbs the spices beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced: Adds a naturally sweet, tender contrast that balances the savory chicken perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and prevents sticking while adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Gives a mild sweetness and depth to the base of the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the skillet with unmistakable warmth and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This smoky spice elevates the dish with a gentle warmth and a vibrant red hue.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness and a touch of complexity to the savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends a fragrant herbal note that brightens up the skillet.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of every ingredient.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and helps the sweet potatoes cook to tender perfection.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursting with juice and acidity to add freshness and color.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle kick of heat that awakens the palate without overpowering.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: An easy way to sneak in greens that wilt down delightfully, adding nutrition and bright green color.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh finishing touch that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, allowing them to gently soften and release their fragrant aromas. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the entire dish, so be patient and enjoy the scent filling your kitchen.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the chicken. Stir this mixture often, cooking for about 4 to 5 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned and the spices have had a chance to toast slightly. This browning process locks in juices and gives the chicken a delicious crust.
Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Next, stir in the diced sweet potatoes. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the skillet, which will steam and soften the sweet potatoes perfectly. Cover the pan and let everything simmer gently for around 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking until the sweet potatoes become tender and luscious.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Heat
Once the sweet potatoes have softened, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and sprinkle the red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to release their juicy sweetness and blend with the spices. This fresh burst adds a vibrant pop both in flavor and appearance.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Finally, stir in the fresh spinach. It will quickly wilt down and integrate into the skillet within 1 to 2 minutes. This last step delivers a nutritious green boost with a pleasant mild flavor that complements the rest of the ingredients. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed before removing the skillet from the heat.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing off your One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a refreshing herbal brightness and a lovely pop of green that elevates the dish visually and taste-wise. A light dusting of extra red pepper flakes can also excite those who crave a touch more heat.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a satisfying main dish on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or rustic crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices left in the pan. Alternatively, fluffy quinoa or brown rice can round out the meal for those who want more grains on their plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress or just change things up? Serve this skillet in individual cast iron pans for a rustic-chic presentation, perfect for sharing. You can also scoop portions over roasted cauliflower rice or mix in some crumbled feta for a salty, creamy twist that complements the smoky paprika and sweet potatoes perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This dish holds its flavor well, making it an excellent option for next-day meals or packed lunches that feel homemade and hearty.
Freezing
You can freeze this skillet, too! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the spinach may darken slightly after freezing, but the overall texture and flavor remain delicious once thawed and reheated.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water if the mixture seems dry. A quick 1-2 minute zap in the microwave also works well for a speedy meal revival.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Regular potatoes will work fine, though the flavor profile will be less sweet and slightly more earthy. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to cook evenly with the chicken.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you use gluten-free chicken broth. It’s perfect for those watching gluten intake but wanting big flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe for more servings?
Definitely! Simply double or triple the ingredient quantities and use a larger skillet or sauté pan to accommodate everything comfortably. Cooking times should remain mostly the same—just watch for doneness.
What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
Frozen spinach can be a handy substitute. Use about 1 cup of frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained, and add it at the same step. It might release extra moisture, so adjust cooking time slightly to avoid a watery skillet.
Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?
Yes! This recipe is versatile. Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms would work wonderfully. Add them after the chicken has browned and before the sweet potatoes to ensure balanced cooking times.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe is like giving yourself a warm hug at the end of a busy day. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying while keeping things fuss-free in the kitchen. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s a comforting, colorful meal that’s guaranteed to brighten up your dinner rotation and your mood.
Print
One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This one-pan chicken and sweet potato skillet is a quick and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are sautéed with aromatic spices and combined with sweet potatoes, cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach, creating a deliciously balanced dish full of flavor in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Spices & Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquids & Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Cook the chicken: Add bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.
- Simmer sweet potatoes: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, then pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add tomatoes and spices: Mix in the halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes if using. Cook uncovered for another 2 minutes, allowing tomatoes to soften slightly.
- Wilt the spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve the dish warm for a wholesome meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs if preferred, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- If you like more spice, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream just before serving.
- This recipe is easily doubled to serve more people using a larger skillet.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
