Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 0.5 cup diced yellow onion; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.75 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste); 0.25 teaspoon granulated garlic; 0.25 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper; 1 medium sweet potato, peeled, par-cooked, and diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed; 4 ounces canned diced green chiles; 0.5 cup salsa or red enchilada sauce; 0.5 cup shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese; 0.5 of a lime juiced; 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)

Introduction to Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that’s easy to prepare, look no further! The Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is a fantastic dish that brings together the best of both worlds—tender chicken, savory spices, and sweet potatoes all in one skillet. This recipe is not only incredibly flavorful, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering.

A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Journey

Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table, and one of our favorite meals was a skillet dish filled with wholesome ingredients. I remember my grandmother preparing a comforting chicken dish similar to this one, and how we would all enjoy it together. This recipe is a modern twist on that beloved family dish, incorporating sweet potatoes and a cheesy finish that’s sure to delight everyone at the table.

What Makes This Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe Special?

This Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet stands out for several reasons. First, it combines protein-rich chicken with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, making it a balanced meal. The blend of spices adds depth and flavor, while the melted cheese on top brings a comforting creaminess that ties everything together. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights!

The Full Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup diced yellow onion
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1 sweet potato, peeled, par-cooked, and diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed
4 ounces canned diced green chiles
1/2 cup salsa or red enchilada sauce
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese
1/2 of a lime, juiced
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This will help to get a nice sear on the chicken.

In a small bowl, mix all the spices together (cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, garlic, and pepper). This blend will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
Add the chicken to the hot skillet, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the spice blend over the chicken. Cook for about 3 minutes or until the chicken is lightly browned.

Next, add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook for a few more minutes until the onion softens and the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes total.
Reduce the heat to medium, and add the remaining spice blend, diced sweet potato, cherry tomatoes, black beans, green chiles, and salsa or enchilada sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Continue to cook everything together until heated through, around 2-3 minutes. You want the sweet potatoes to be tender but not mushy.

Squeeze lime juice over the mixture, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. This adds a fresh flavor and melty goodness!
Cover the skillet with a lid or foil until the cheese melts, approximately 2-3 minutes.
Garnish with cilantro if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your meal!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

This dish is delicious on its own, but you can easily elevate it with some serving suggestions. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or over a bed of quinoa for added fiber. If you love spice, add some jalapeños or use spicy salsa. You can also swap out the black beans for kidney beans or chickpeas for a different flavor profile. And for a twist, try adding corn or bell peppers for extra color and crunch!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the skillet and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Do I have to par-cook the sweet potato?
While it’s recommended for quicker cooking, you can dice raw sweet potato; just allow extra time for it to cook through in the skillet.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per Serving: 320
Servings: 4