One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Introduction
This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is an easy, wholesome meal that’s full of flavor and requires minimal cleanup. Tender chicken thighs, caramelized sweet potatoes, and a hint of savory seasoning come together in a simple, delicious dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.


Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, skinless if preferred)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sweet Potatoes:

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Vegetables (optional):

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  4. Rub the spice mix all over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re evenly coated.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

  1. In a separate bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until well-coated.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet (such as cast iron) over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil.
  2. When the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down. Sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
  3. Flip the chicken over and remove it from the skillet. Set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

  1. In the same skillet, add the diced sweet potatoes and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add the garlic (if using) and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Roast in the Oven

  1. Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them on top of the sweet potatoes.
  2. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes (depending on the size of the chicken thighs) until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Serve the chicken and sweet potatoes on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips:

  • For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice over the chicken and sweet potatoes before serving.
  • If you’re using boneless chicken thighs, reduce the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts to the skillet for variety.

This One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is a simple, nourishing meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to clean up afterward.

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