Name: BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: Chicken breast (boneless, skinless); Sweet potatoes; Barbecue sauce of choice; Olive oil; Smoked paprika; Garlic powder; Salt; Black pepper; Fresh parsley or cilantro

A BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl brings bold flavor and wholesome satisfaction together in one hearty dish. Picture this: tender chunks of chicken breast, roasted sweet potato cubes with caramelized edges, all tossed in a smoky barbecue sauce that clings to every bite. Finished with a handful of fresh herbs for brightness, this bowl is as comforting as it is crave-worthy.

Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed lunch, a post-workout dinner, or a meal prep go-to, this one ticks all the boxes. It’s naturally gluten-free, incredibly customizable, and offers a great balance of lean protein, complex carbs, and flavor. Plus, it looks just as good as it tastes.

What Kind of Barbecue Sauce Should I Use?

That depends on the flavor profile you love. A smoky Kansas City-style sauce gives depth, while a Carolina vinegar base adds a tangy kick. For a sweeter take, try honey or brown sugar-based barbecue sauce. If you’re watching sugar, opt for a low-sugar or no-sugar-added variety. The beauty of this bowl is its flexibility—you can easily adjust the sauce to suit your mood.

Ingredients for the BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl

Chicken Breast: Lean, high-protein base for the dish. Boneless, skinless chicken works best for quick, even cooking.
Sweet Potatoes: These roast beautifully, adding natural sweetness and hearty texture to balance the smoky sauce.
Barbecue Sauce: The soul of the dish. Choose one that complements your taste—whether smoky, sweet, or spicy.
Olive Oil: Helps crisp up the sweet potatoes and sear the chicken.
Smoked Paprika & Garlic Powder: Enhance the depth of flavor in both the chicken and potatoes.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer.
Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Adds a burst of color and freshness to round out the dish.

How To Make the BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Toss them in olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and slightly crispy on the edges.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, cube the chicken breasts. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden and fully cooked through.

Step 3: Toss in BBQ Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour your favorite barbecue sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat evenly and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the chicken.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the roasted sweet potatoes and BBQ chicken into bowls. Top with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of freshness. Optional add-ons include a dollop of Greek yogurt, sliced avocado, or a drizzle of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.

Serving and Storing Your BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl

This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm, straight out of the skillet. But it’s just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. If you’re serving it immediately, garnish with chopped herbs and any extras you enjoy. For meal prep, store in airtight containers with a bit of extra sauce on the side to keep it juicy when reheated.

You can refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Avoid freezing, as the texture of roasted sweet potatoes tends to suffer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier result and hold up well to the barbecue sauce. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.

What vegetables can I add to this bowl?

Try tossing in roasted Brussels sprouts, red onions, bell peppers, or even corn. They add extra color, texture, and nutrients.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your barbecue sauce is certified gluten-free. Always double-check the label if you have sensitivities.

Can I meal prep this for the week?

Definitely. Store each portion in meal prep containers and keep extra sauce separate for best texture and flavor upon reheating.

What kind of barbecue sauce works best for a smoky flavor?

Look for a sauce labeled “smoky” or containing ingredients like chipotle, hickory smoke, or mesquite. These will amplify the depth of flavor.

How do I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne to the spice mix or stir in a few dashes of hot sauce with the barbecue sauce.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Flavorful Twists?

If you love this BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl, you’ll definitely enjoy these other comforting and flavor-packed meals:

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can whip it up whenever the BBQ craving strikes.

And if you give it a try, let me know in the comments how it turned out! Did you go smoky, sweet, or spicy with your sauce? Maybe you added extra veggies or topped it with a fried egg?

I love hearing your twists on these recipes. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share your tips—we’re all about building a better dinner together.