These BBQ Chicken and Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls are a tasty treat! With tender chicken covered in sweet BBQ sauce and fluffy roasted sweet potatoes, it’s a comforting meal.
Trust me, the combo of sweet and smoky flavors here is hard to beat! I love adding fresh veggies on top for a crunch. So easy, it feels like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and shred. You can also use thighs for added flavor, or even swap in tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce makes this dish standout. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, use a low-sugar BBQ sauce or make your own with ketchup, vinegar, and spices.
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and a creamy texture. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, butternut squash or regular potatoes could work well, but adjust cooking times as needed.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds great color and crunch. You can replace it with any green veggie, like green beans or asparagus, based on your preference or what’s available.
How Do I Roast Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Roasting sweet potatoes is easy, but attention to detail is key for getting them right. The aim is to make them tender inside with a nice, roasted finish outside.
- Preheat your oven properly to ensure even roasting.
- Cut sweet potatoes into uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; spread them out to allow for proper air circulation.
- Stir them halfway through cooking to ensure all sides get nicely browned.
Following these steps will help you achieve deliciously caramelized sweet potatoes every time!
How to Make BBQ Chicken and Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Broccoli:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 40 minutes of total cooking time. You’ll spend some time roasting sweet potatoes while simultaneously cooking the BBQ chicken, making it a simple and tasty meal to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will get it nice and hot for roasting those sweet potatoes!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Take a large bowl and toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until they are evenly coated. Then, spread the sweet potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
3. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and roast the sweet potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. Stir them halfway through cooking to help them brown evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when they are tender and lightly browned.
4. Cook the Chicken:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, take your chicken breasts and place them in a slow cooker or an instant pot. Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, use the instant pot and cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks.
5. Blanch the Broccoli:
Next, bring a small pot of water to a boil. When it’s boiling, add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes, just until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain the broccoli and set it aside.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take a bowl and add a scoop of the roasted sweet potatoes, followed by some shredded BBQ chicken, and then the blanched broccoli. It should look colorful and appetizing!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you want to add a little extra flair, garnish your bowls with sliced green onions or fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken and Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls!
### FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw chicken overnight in the fridge or use the defrost function on your microwave. If using frozen, cook the chicken in the instant pot for about 20-25 minutes on high pressure.
What Can I Substitute for Sweet Potatoes?
If you don’t have sweet potatoes, you can substitute with regular potatoes, but the cooking time may vary. Alternatively, try using butternut squash for a similar sweetness and flavor profile. Just peel, dice, and adjust the roasting time accordingly, since squash may cook faster.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating can be done in the microwave or on the stovetop; just add a splash of water to the sweet potatoes and cover to prevent drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Bowl?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or spinach for a more colorful and nutritious bowl. Just adjust the blanching or roasting time based on the vegetables you choose to add.
