Name: Lean Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp salt (or to taste); Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus; Fresh parsley or cilantro; Lemon wedges

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 82 reviews

If you are looking for a wholesome, vibrant, and incredibly satisfying meal, this Lean Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender, juicy chicken with the natural sweetness and comforting texture of roasted sweet potatoes, making every bite a celebration of clean eating done right. Whether you’re managing your weight, prepping meals for the week, or simply craving a balanced lunch or dinner, this dish nails nutrition and flavor without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A blue baking tray holds a single layer of raw food items arranged across it; there are four pieces of light pink chicken thighs spread with mustard sauce and small green herbs on their surface, placed on top of thinly sliced curved purple-red onion layers. Scattered around the tray are medium-sized orange cubes of sweet potatoes. The tray sits on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth partially visible on the left edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple, everyday ingredients is all you need to create a bowl packed with color, texture, and great taste. Each element plays a key role in building this delicious, nourishing plate.

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Choose fresh chicken breast for a lean, protein-rich base that cooks evenly and remains tender.
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed: These add a beautiful orange hue and complex carbs to keep you energized.
1 tbsp olive oil: For roasting and cooking, olive oil lends a subtle richness and helps in achieving the perfect crisp on the sweet potatoes and chicken.
1 tsp garlic powder: A simple way to layer in savory depth to your chicken without overpowering it.
1 tsp paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor and vibrant color to your sweet potatoes.
½ tsp black pepper: Enhances overall flavor with a gentle, warming kick.
½ tsp salt (or to taste): Essential to bring all the flavors alive without overwhelming the natural ingredients.
Optional sides & garnish (steamed broccoli, fresh herbs, lemon wedges): These brighten your plate visually and add fresh, complementary flavors.

How to Make Lean Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the perfect roasting temperature. Toss the cubed sweet potatoes in half the olive oil, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This coating not only helps the potatoes roast to a golden, caramelized finish but also infuses them with a subtle smoky and savory punch. Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet to ensure each cube crisps beautifully.

Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Roast the sweet potatoes for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through to get that even golden exterior and tender inside. Keep an eye on them; the sweet aroma filling your kitchen is a good sign of deliciousness to come. This roasting process brings out the natural sugars in the sweet potatoes, balancing perfectly with the savory chicken.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

While the sweet potatoes work their magic, brush the chicken breasts with the remaining olive oil and season generously with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. These simple seasonings are all you need to complement the mild sweetness of the potatoes and enhance the chicken without overwhelming it.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken on a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Allow 5 to 6 minutes per side, aiming for that perfect golden crust while cooking through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This rest period locks in the juices, resulting in tender, moist slices every time.

Step 5: Plate Your Lean Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl

Slice the rested chicken breast and arrange it alongside your roasted sweet potatoes on a plate or bowl. Add any optional veggies you like for extra nutrition and a fresh crunch. It’s as simple as that — a wholesome, colorful bowl that’s ready to nourish and delight.

How to Serve Lean Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe

Lean Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Brighten your bowl with fresh parsley or cilantro, which add a refreshing herbal note to balance the warm roasted flavors. A squeeze of lemon wedges provides just the right tang to elevate the entire dish, cutting through the richness and awakening your taste buds.

Side Dishes

Consider pairing this Lean Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe with lightly steamed green beans, asparagus, or broccoli. Their crisp textures and earthy flavors create a wonderful contrast and help round out the meal with added vitamins and fiber.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your ingredients layered in a mason jar for meal prep on the go. Another idea is to create small, individual-sized bowls for a party platter, letting guests customize with extra herbs, lemon, or a dollop of your favorite yogurt-based sauce. Presentation is key to making this healthy dish feel special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Lean Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store leftover chicken and sweet potatoes in airtight containers to keep them fresh and ready for quick meals during busy days.

Freezing

If you want to store beyond a few days, freeze portions separately to maintain the best textures. Freeze cooked chicken and sweet potatoes in freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep the chicken moist. For the sweet potatoes, a quick toss in the oven or toaster oven helps retain their roasted crispness, making your next meal feel freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier, slightly richer flavor. Just keep in mind they may take a bit longer to cook through than chicken breasts, so adjust cooking time as needed.

What can I use if I don’t have paprika?

If you’re out of paprika, smoked or sweet chili powder makes a great substitute, adding a similar depth of flavor and color to the roasted sweet potatoes.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. This Lean Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe is perfect for meal prep because all components store well and reheat nicely without losing flavor or texture.

Can I add a sauce to this dish?

Yes, a yogurt-based sauce or fresh salsa can add extra moisture and flavor, making each bite even more delightful. Just keep the sauce light to maintain the clean eating focus.

How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?

The safest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer — it should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also feel firm to the touch but still juicy inside, not dry.

Final Thoughts

This Lean Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe is truly one of those meals you’ll want to make again and again. It strikes the perfect balance between simplicity, nutrition, and deliciousness, all wrapped up in a colorful, easy-to-prepare bowl. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors and bright, healthy vibes it brings to your table.