Are you craving a comforting yet healthy meal that's quick to prepare? Look no further! This recipe for Chicken Sweet Potato is a fantastic option for a delicious and nutritious dinner, perfect for busy weeknights. It's one of those easy recipes that doesn't compromise on flavor, offering a delightful blend of savory chicken and naturally sweet sweet potatoes. This homemade cooking masterpiece is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Get ready to discover one of the best recipes you'll ever try!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the sweet potatoes and chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves. This step is crucial for even cooking.
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Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with olive oil, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
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Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Spread the cubed sweet potatoes and onions in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until slightly softened.
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Combine and Simmer: Add the seasoned chicken to the baking sheet with the partially cooked sweet potatoes and onions. Pour the chicken broth over everything.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender. You can check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy this quick dinner idea!
Tips for the Best Chicken Sweet Potato Recipe:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a crispier chicken, broil the dish for the last few minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots, for a more complete meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Sweet Potato: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Honey Garlic Chicken Sweet Potato: Add 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce to the chicken before baking for a sweet and savory twist.
- Herb-Roasted Chicken Sweet Potato: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 10-12g
This recipe is a great example of healthy meals that are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. It’s a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Enjoy!