Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls With Roasted Veggies 2024

Name: Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 2 medium sweet potatoes; – 1 large yellow onion; – 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided); – 1/4 teaspoon salt (divided); – 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; – 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder or chili powder; – 1 medium head broccoli; – 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts; – 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (divided)

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Why You’ll Love This Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls

Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls are an easy choice for anyone craving a tasty, simple meal. They combine tender pulled chicken with sweet potatoes for a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. This recipe checks all the boxes for busy days with its quick prep and healthy vibes.

One big plus is how simple it is to whip up. You only need one sheet pan and about 45 minutes total, making it perfect for weeknights. For more ideas on easy chicken dishes, check out our loaded baked potato chicken casserole for another hearty option.

From a nutrition angle, these bowls pack in great stuff. Each serving brings 524 calories, with 51g of protein from lean chicken breasts and plenty of fiber from veggies. Sweet potatoes add vitamins like A and C, plus they help keep energy steady all day long.

What really stands out is how flexible this recipe can be. You can tweak it for different diets, like going gluten-free or vegan, without losing that smoky, sweet taste. It’s a go-to for families or anyone prepping meals ahead. For a similar twist, try our crockpot steak and potato bake to mix things up.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls
2. Essential Ingredients for Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions Protein and Main Component Alternatives
5. Dietary Substitutions Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications
6. Mastering Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls: Advanced Tips and Variations
7. How to Store Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls: Best Practices
8. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls
9. Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls

Essential Ingredients for Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls

Getting the right ingredients is key to making Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls turn out just right. This section lists everything you need, based on a straightforward recipe that keeps things simple and healthy. We’ll focus on exact amounts to make shopping and cooking a breeze.

2 medium sweet potatoes
1 large yellow onion
1 tablespoon olive oil (divided)
1/4 teaspoon salt (divided)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder or chili powder
1 medium head broccoli
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (divided)

Special options let you adapt this to various needs. For a vegan twist, swap chicken with shredded jackfruit or mushrooms. If you’re watching sodium, pick low-sodium BBQ sauce to keep flavors in check.

How to Prepare the Perfect Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Started with Prep

Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls come together in no time with this guide. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and gathering your ingredients. This step ensures everything is ready for smooth cooking. Peeling and chopping the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch chunks sets the base for a great meal.

It’s all about keeping things simple here. Chopping the onion into 1-inch pieces adds that savory touch. Toss the sweet potatoes and onions with half the olive oil, half the salt, garlic powder, and chipotle powder or chili powder for bold flavor.

Roasting the Veggies

Spread the mixture on a lined sheet pan and bake for 20 minutes. This hands-off step lets the veggies get tender and caramelized. After that, push them to one side to make room for the rest.

Now, toss the broccoli with the remaining olive oil and salt. Add it to the pan for that extra crunch and nutrition. These steps build a balanced bowl full of roasted vegetables.

Adding and Cooking the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on the pan and brush them with 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce. Bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. This method keeps it juicy and packed with flavor. For more chicken ideas, baked chicken breast recipe offers great tips on perfect results.

Finishing Touches

Once done, remove from the oven and shred the chicken with two forks. Mix it with the remaining BBQ sauce for that pulled effect. Divide everything into three bowls and serve right away. The total prep time is just 10 minutes, with 35 minutes of cooking.

Nutritional perks per serving include 524 calories, 45g carbohydrates, and 51g protein. To learn more about sweet potato benefits, check out this resource on their health advantages. These tips make the recipe ideal for meal prep or quick dinners.

Dietary Substitutions Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Swapping ingredients in Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls keeps it fresh and inclusive. Start with shredded jackfruit for a plant-based option that mimics pulled chicken texture. It’s simple and adds a fun twist to the bowls.

Pulled mushrooms like oyster varieties offer a meaty feel and soak up sauces well. Canned chickpeas provide fiber and work great for a Mediterranean vibe. Firm tofu or tempeh can step in for high-protein needs, especially in vegan versions.

If you prefer meat, lean turkey or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken are solid swaps. They keep the protein high while cutting down on prep time. These changes help tailor the recipe to your preferences.

Dietary Substitutions Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Mixing up veggies in Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls adds variety. Try butternut squash or beets instead of sweet potatoes for a seasonal change. Quick-pickled onions or carrots bring extra crunch and acidity to the mix.

For sauces, go dairy-free with tahini-lemon or a light vinaigrette. Adjust seasonings by using fresh herbs or smoked paprika to cut sodium. These tweaks ensure the bowls fit different diets without losing taste.

Mastering Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls: Advanced Tips and Variations

Pro Techniques for Better Flavor

Taking Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls to the next level starts with browning the chicken first. This creates a rich base that boosts the overall taste. For sweet potatoes, roasting at a high heat then lowering it helps with even cooking.

Experiment with flavors by adding regional twists. A Mexican version might include cumin and lime, while an Asian one uses hoisin and pickled veggies. Presentation matters too, so layer ingredients for a visually appealing bowl.

Make-Ahead and Storage Ideas

Meal prep is easy with this recipe. Cook the chicken and veggies ahead and store them separately. Reheat gently to keep everything fresh. Aim for a balance of protein and veggies in each bowl for the best results.

Component	Storage Tip	Reheating Method
Pulled Chicken	Store in braising liquid	Reheat in skillet with broth
Sweet Potatoes	Keep separate to retain texture	Oven at 375°F for crispness

How to Store Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls tasting great. Cool components quickly and use airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. Keep pulled chicken in its liquid to stay moist.

For freezing, portion items separately and label them. This way, they last up to 3 months. Reheat in short bursts to avoid drying out, adding fresh toppings at the end.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls

How do I make pulled chicken for sweet potato bowls?

To make pulled chicken for sweet potato bowls, start by cooking boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in a slow cooker or Instant Pot with your choice of seasoning, such as garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is tender, about 4-6 hours on low in a slow cooker or 15-20 minutes with natural release in an Instant Pot. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. The shredded chicken can then be mixed with barbecue sauce or other preferred sauces before assembling your sweet potato bowl.

Can I prepare sweet potato bowls ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can prepare pulled chicken sweet potato bowls in advance and freeze them in individual containers. For best results, cook and shred the chicken and roast or microwave the sweet potatoes until tender. However, note that the texture of the sweet potatoes may become softer when reheated and lose some crispness. To reheat, thaw the bowls overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a microwave or oven until heated through.

What toppings go well with pulled chicken sweet potato bowls?

Popular toppings for pulled chicken sweet potato bowls include black beans, corn, diced avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Adding fresh or pickled jalapeños can provide a spicy kick. These toppings add flavor, texture, and nutrition, enhancing the overall taste and making the bowl more satisfying.

Are pulled chicken sweet potato bowls healthy?

Pulled chicken sweet potato bowls are a nutritious meal option. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. Chicken provides high-quality protein with relatively low fat. By balancing the dish with vegetables and healthy toppings like avocado, you create a meal that supports a well-rounded diet. Avoid excessive use of high-calorie sauces to maintain the health benefits.

How should I reheat pulled chicken sweet potato bowls without drying out the chicken?

To reheat pulled chicken sweet potato bowls without drying the chicken, cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel and heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring between each to maintain moisture. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil to prevent drying. Adding a splash of water or broth before reheating can also keep the chicken juicy.

Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls

Author: Brandi Oshea
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 3 servings
Diet: High Protein

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Description

🍗 Savor a balanced meal with lean BBQ chicken, wholesome sweet potatoes, and flavorful roasted veggies.
🌶️ This easy one-pan recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prepping nutritious lunches.

Ingredients

– 2 medium sweet potatoes

– 1 large yellow onion

– 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided)

– 1/4 teaspoon salt (divided)

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder or chili powder

– 1 medium head broccoli

– 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts

– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (divided)

Instructions