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
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mix all over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- 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
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet (such as cast iron) over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil.
- When the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down. Sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
- Flip the chicken over and remove it from the skillet. Set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
- In the same skillet, add the diced sweet potatoes and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the garlic (if using) and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Roast in the Oven
- Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them on top of the sweet potatoes.
- 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
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- 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.