BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Skillet – One-Pan Healthy High Protein Dinner

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of smoky barbecue, caramelized sweet potatoes, and perfectly seasoned chicken? There’s something so comforting about a one-pan meal—simple, hearty, and made with real ingredients that come together in beautiful harmony. Today’s recipe is a wholesome favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights yet satisfying enough for a relaxed family dinner.

This BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Skillet combines tender bites of chicken breast, naturally sweet roasted sweet potatoes, and a rich barbecue glaze that ties everything together. It’s a balanced, protein-packed dish that feels indulgent while still being nourishing. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the tangy, smoky BBQ sauce, and a touch of melted cheese on top brings everything together in the most comforting way.

Best of all? It’s made in just one pan, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or feeding a hungry crowd, this easy skillet dinner delivers bold flavor with minimal fuss. Let’s get cooking!

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Skillet Ingredients

For the Skillet:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the BBQ Flavor:

• ¾ cup your favorite barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness)

Optional Toppings:

• ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onions
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream

Print

BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Skillet Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prep the Ingredients
   Dice the sweet potatoes into small, even cubes to ensure they cook evenly. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes
   Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cover with a lid for part of the cooking time to help them soften. They should be fork-tender with lightly crisp edges. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Chicken
   In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Season with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Add Aromatics
   Stir in the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Bring It All Together
   Return the sweet potatoes to the skillet. Pour in the barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 3–4 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully. 🔥
6. Optional Cheesy Finish
   If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.
7. Garnish and Serve
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm, optionally topped with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess.

BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Skillet Nutritional Information

This balanced skillet meal offers lean protein from chicken, complex carbohydrates from sweet potatoes, and heart-healthy fats from olive oil. It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free by skipping the cheese.

Per serving (approximate, based on 4 servings):

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 20 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~420 | 🍽️ Servings: 4

Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 10g

This dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. For meal prep, portion into containers and pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, satisfying lunch.

The beauty of this BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Skillet lies in its simplicity. With everyday ingredients and one trusty pan, you can create a wholesome dinner that feels both comforting and energizing. It’s sweet, smoky, savory, and just a little bit indulgent—all in one satisfying bite.

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!