Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl

If you’re looking for a delicious and wholesome meal that brings comfort and nourishment in every bite, then the Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl is just what you need. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this bowl is perfect for any occasion. Each bite is a delightful blend of grilled chicken, tender sweet potatoes, and vibrant greens that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

What I love most about this dish is how customizable it is. You can make it your own by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time. With simple prep and cooking methods, you’ll have dinner ready in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet flavor of roasted sweet potatoes paired with juicy grilled chicken. It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra servings on the weekend and enjoy delicious lunches all week long. It stores well in the fridge, so you can grab it on the go!
• Loaded with Flavor: The marinade gives the chicken tons of flavor while the spices on the sweet potatoes add a delightful smoky kick.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this bowl will keep you satisfied without sacrificing health.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this mouthwatering bowl! You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Thighs offer more flavor and moisture, while breasts are leaner. Trim any excess fat.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Extra virgin for best flavor; helps with browning and prevents sticking.
• 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best; adds brightness and tenderizes.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy depth and helps emulsify the marinade.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic provides an aromatic punch.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: Or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped.
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Lends a beautiful color and smoky flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Or to taste; enhances all flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground for optimal taste.

For the Sweet Potatoes

• 2 large Sweet Potatoes (about 1.5 lbs): Peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Helps them crisp up and prevents sticking.
• 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Complements the chicken’s smokiness.
• 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder: For an extra layer of savory flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Or to taste.
• Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (optional): For a little kick of heat.

Optional Bases & Toppings

• 1 cup Cooked Quinoa or Brown Rice (optional base): Adds complex carbohydrates and fiber.
• 1-2 cups Mixed Greens or Spinach (optional base): For added freshness and nutrients.
• 1/4 Avocado, sliced or diced: Provides healthy fats and creaminess.
• 1 tablespoon Crumbled Feta Cheese or Goat Cheese (optional): Adds a salty, tangy element.
• 1 tablespoon Toasted Pumpkin Seeds or Sliced Almonds (optional): For crunch and healthy fats.

For the Tahini Dressing

• 1/4 cup Tahini: Well-stirred, as it can separate.
• 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for brightness.
• 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup or Honey (optional): For a touch of sweetness to balance the tahini.
• 1 clove Garlic, minced or grated: For a subtle garlic note.
• 2-4 tablespoons Ice Water: To thin to desired consistency.
• Pinch of Salt: To taste.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein source that still packs plenty of flavor!
• Change up the veggies: Add roasted broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini to give your bowl extra color and nutrition—whatever veggies you love!
• Try different grains: Instead of quinoa or brown rice, use farro or couscous as your base for something new and exciting!
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or drizzle some sriracha over your finished bowl if you like an extra kick.

How to Make Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken! In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add your chicken thighs or breasts to this mixture, making sure they’re well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes—this step infuses tons of flavor into the meat!

Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

While your chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast them in the oven until they’re tender and crispy—about 25–30 minutes—flipping halfway through ensures even cooking!

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Once your sweet potatoes are almost done roasting, heat up your grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from its marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and grill each piece for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). The grilling process adds those lovely char marks that make everything taste even better!

Step 4: Prepare Your Base & Assemble

If you’re using quinoa or brown rice as a base, prepare that according to package instructions while everything else cooks. Once everything is ready—sweet potatoes roasted perfectly golden-brown and chicken grilled—you can start assembling your bowls! Layer quinoa/rice at the bottom followed by mixed greens if desired.

Step 5: Top It Off

Slice up that delicious grilled chicken and arrange it over your base alongside roasted sweet potatoes. Finish off with avocado slices, optional cheese if you’re using it, nuts/seeds for crunch—and don’t forget that tahini dressing! Just mix tahini with lemon juice, garlic, water to get that creamy goodness flowing.

Enjoy every bite of this hearty Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl! It’s comforting yet nourishing—a true winner around here!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl

This Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl is a delightful dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying, perfect for any occasion!

• Marinate the chicken longer: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) enhances the flavor and tenderness, making every bite juicy and delicious.

• Use a meat thermometer: Cooking the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F ensures it’s perfectly cooked without being dry. This simple step takes the guesswork out of grilling!

• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Giving each piece of chicken enough space allows for even cooking and beautiful grill marks. It also helps to avoid steaming instead of grilling!

• Mix up your greens: Experiment with different greens like arugula, kale, or mixed baby greens. Each brings its own unique flavor and texture, adding variety to your bowl.

• Customize your toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Adding ingredients like roasted chickpeas or pickled onions can take this bowl to the next level and make it uniquely yours.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl

Serving this bowl is all about presentation and personal flair! You can layer the ingredients beautifully in a large bowl or on individual plates for a vibrant display that’s sure to impress.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro not only add color but also a burst of freshness that complements the dish beautifully.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before digging in can brighten all the flavors—don’t skip this step!

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy edges and nutty flavor make them a fantastic accompaniment, balancing the sweetness of sweet potatoes.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast in texture and keeps things light.
• Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add another layer of flavor with their slight char—perfect for that summer vibe!
• Hummus with Veggies: Serving hummus with assorted veggies not only adds color but also makes for a healthy, crunchy side that pairs well with the rest of your meal.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl, filled with flavors and good vibes!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare components in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays. Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cooked chicken and sweet potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Keep the tahini dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Cool all components thoroughly before freezing.
• Store the chicken and sweet potatoes in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through (165°F/74°C).
• For best results, reheat sweet potatoes in the oven for a few minutes to retain their crispiness.

FAQs

Have questions about making your Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl? We’ve got you covered!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This bowl works well with grilled turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

How do I make my Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply replace chicken with chickpeas or black beans, and use maple syrup in the tahini dressing without the optional cheese.

What can I add to my Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl?

Feel free to customize your bowl with roasted vegetables, different greens, or nuts for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless!

How long does it take to prepare the Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl?

You can have this delicious bowl ready in about 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and nutritious meal option.

Can I eat this bowl cold?

Yes! The Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl is just as tasty cold, making it a great choice for lunch on-the-go.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl! It’s not just a meal; it’s a colorful celebration of flavors that will nourish both body and soul. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and sides, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this recipe. Happy cooking!