One-Pan Chicken And Sweet Potato Skillet: The Ultimate Chicken Dinner Recipe
Introduction to One-Pan Chicken And Sweet Potato Skillet
This One-Pan Chicken And Sweet Potato Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Imagine tender chicken thighs infused with a sweet, spicy chipotle honey glaze, perfectly paired with roasted sweet potatoes. This dish is easy to prepare and makes for a quick cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner.
A Personal Story Behind My One-Pan Chicken And Sweet Potato Skillet Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed hearty meals that brought us together. One of my fondest memories is of my grandmother preparing chicken and sweet potatoes for Sunday dinner, filling our home with mouthwatering aromas. This recipe is inspired by those cherished moments, and I’ve crafted it to be simple yet satisfying, ensuring everyone can recreate that warmth in their own homes.
What Makes This One-Pan Chicken And Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved without a lot of fuss. You only need one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward. The combination of honey and chipotle creates a delightful balance of sweetness and heat, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and sweet potatoes. Plus, it’s a nutritious meal packed with protein and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for any family.
The Full One-Pan Chicken And Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken thighs (about 4 chicken thighs)
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1 ½ pounds sweet potatoes, cut into ½ inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil, divided (or other neutral flavored oil)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon minced chipotle (from a can of chipotle peppers in adobo)
- 1 garlic clove, minced or finely grated
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs with ½ teaspoon of salt. This enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. This browning adds a great depth of flavor. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of avocado oil to the skillet along with the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of salt and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften.
- In a separate bowl, melt the butter, honey, minced chipotle, and garlic together either in the microwave or on the stovetop. This will create a delicious glaze.
- Once the sweet potatoes are slightly browned, return the chicken to the skillet along with any juices. Pour the honey and butter mixture over the chicken and sweet potatoes, stirring to combine all the flavors.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. Make sure to check the temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions and Variations for One-Pan Chicken And Sweet Potato Skillet
This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad. For a bit of brightness, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. If you enjoy a spicy kick, feel free to add more minced chipotle peppers to the glaze. You can also substitute the honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile!
Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pan Chicken And Sweet Potato Skillet
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breasts work well too, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as they can dry out faster.
Is there a way to make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potatoes and chicken in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine and bake as instructed.
What if I don’t have chipotle peppers? You can substitute with another type of chili powder or hot sauce, adjusting to your desired spice level.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes! Brown the chicken and sweet potatoes, then transfer to a slow cooker with the glaze and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 4
One-Pan Chicken And Sweet Potato Skillet
Equipment
- Large Skillet for cooking chicken and sweet potatoes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken thighs about 4 chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt divided
- 1.5 pounds sweet potatoes cut into ½ inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil divided or other neutral flavored oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon minced chipotle from a can of chipotle peppers in adobo
- 1 clove garlic minced or finely grated
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs with ½ teaspoon of salt.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of avocado oil to the skillet along with the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of salt and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a separate bowl, melt the butter, honey, minced chipotle, and garlic together either in the microwave or on the stovetop. This will create a delicious glaze.
- Once the sweet potatoes are slightly browned, return the chicken to the skillet along with any juices. Pour the honey and butter mixture over the chicken and sweet potatoes, stirring to combine.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle.