Description
A wholesome one-pan chicken and sweet potato skillet dish featuring tender seared chicken thighs, caramelized sweet potatoes, and aromatic herbs cooked together for a flavorful and easy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (or 2 large chicken breasts)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for garnish)
Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure good searing. Season both sides evenly with paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper for a fragrant spice base.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken should be seared but not fully cooked through at this stage. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Toss in the diced sweet potatoes, stirring occasionally, and cook for 7-10 minutes until they begin to soften and develop a caramelized exterior.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic with the sweet potatoes. Cook together for another 2 minutes until the onions become translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
- Combine and Simmer: Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet among the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle the chopped fresh thyme or rosemary over the top. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Drizzle with optional lemon juice and garnish with additional fresh herbs. Serve the dish hot and enjoy a balanced, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Using chicken thighs ensures juicier and more flavorful meat, but chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative.
- Adjust the chili flakes to taste for desired spiciness or omit for a milder dish.
- If you prefer, you can swap fresh herbs with dried ones, but fresh provides a more vibrant flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken during searing to keep it moist.
- This recipe is easily doubled or halved depending on serving needs.
