Name: BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; ½ cup BBQ sauce, plus more for drizzling; 1 avocado, diced; ½ cup canned corn, drained; ½ cup black beans, rinsed and drained; ¼ cup diced red onion; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro; ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack); 2 tablespoons sliced green onions

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a dinner that’s equal parts comforting, bold, and surprisingly wholesome, let me introduce you to the BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl. Imagine caramelized sweet potatoes, juicy BBQ-slathered chicken, and a medley of colorful toppings nestled together in one bowl—you get big flavor in every bite, with just enough smoky sweetness and a riot of textures. This dish isn’t just nourishing and customizable; it’s a weeknight wonder and an instant family favorite. Plus, it comes together with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness!

BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl is built from everyday, vibrant ingredients that come together to create magic. Each component brings something special to the table, from the tender sweet potatoes to the zingy BBQ sauce and those fresh finishing touches.

Chicken breasts: Lean and juicy, they soak up all the BBQ flavor and become meltingly tender when cooked just right.
Sweet potatoes: Roasted until golden and caramelized, these cubes give a naturally sweet, earthy foundation for your bowl.
Olive oil: Helps everything roast beautifully and adds richness in both the potatoes and the pan-seared chicken.
Salt: A little seasoning on each layer ensures every bite sings.
Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and rounds out the spices for balance.
Paprika: A mild kick and a gorgeous color boost the overall flavor profile.
Garlic powder: Gives deep savory notes without the fuss of fresh garlic.
BBQ sauce: The star ingredient—choose your favorite brand for smoky, sweet, or spicy vibes.
Avocado: Creamy and cooling, these luscious bites pair perfectly with the zesty BBQ flavors.
Canned corn: Sweet and golden, a quick pantry addition for crunch and vibrant color.
Black beans: Protein-packed and hearty, they make the bowl even more satisfying.
Red onion: Adds crunch and a little bite without overpowering the bowl.
Fresh cilantro: Herbal and fragrant, it brings a pop of freshness that ties the whole dish together.
Shredded cheese: Melty cheddar or Monterey Jack adds gooey texture and richness.
Green onions: A final sprinkle for mild oniony snap and a splash of color.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Let’s start with the base! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), then toss your peeled and diced sweet potatoes with half of the olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet so each cube caramelizes nicely. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, giving them a flip halfway for even cooking. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden and fork-tender with those irresistible crispy edges.

Step 2: Cook the BBQ Chicken

While the potatoes roast, season your chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken and cook for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through (you’re aiming for an internal temp of 165°F). After a quick rest, slice or shred the chicken and toss it in warm, glossy BBQ sauce until every piece is deliciously coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Bowls

Now comes the fun part! Divvy up the roasted sweet potatoes into wide, shallow bowls. Top each with a generous portion of your saucy BBQ chicken. This is the moment to add all those glorious toppings: creamy diced avocado, bright bites of corn, earthy black beans, sharp red onion, a scatter of cilantro, a sprinkle of cheese for a melty hit, and a final flourish of sliced green onions. If you’re feeling extra, give each bowl a drizzle of more BBQ sauce.

Step 4: Meal Prep Option

If you love having a healthy lunch ready to grab, this recipe is made for make-ahead magic! Simply store each ingredient—chicken, potatoes, and toppings—in separate airtight containers in the fridge and assemble whenever hunger strikes. That way, every BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl is just as fresh and vibrant as the day you made it.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl

Garnishes

Garnishes are where you can really make each BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl feel special. Try a sprinkle of extra cheese, a squeeze of lime, or an extra shower of cilantro for brightness. Hot sauce fans, go ahead and spice things up with your favorite drizzle!

Side Dishes

This hearty bowl stands tall on its own, but it also loves good company. If you want to round out your meal, serve with a light green salad, tortilla chips, or maybe some simple sautéed greens. A cool, tangy slaw is also a fun contrast to the rich BBQ flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a gorgeous table spread, lay out all the toppings family-style for a DIY bowl bar—everyone customizes their own BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl. Or, layer everything in a mason jar for a fun, portable lunch that’s as pretty as it is practical!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully! Store the chicken, sweet potatoes, and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. That way, everything stays fresh and nothing gets soggy.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead for busy weeks, freeze the cooked chicken and roasted sweet potatoes separately in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Leave off the fresh toppings until serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm the chicken and sweet potatoes gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot. Assemble your BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl with freshly diced avocado, crunchy veggies, and all your favorite add-ons for a meal that tastes just-made!

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving swap. Just shred it and toss with your favorite BBQ sauce right before assembling your bowls.

What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?

Go with the BBQ sauce you love most, whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy. Homemade works wonderfully, or try a store-bought favorite—each will give the BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl its signature flair.

How can I make this vegetarian?

Easy! Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or extra beans, and use a vegetarian BBQ sauce. All the toppings and roasted veggies pair perfectly for a meatless version.

Is this dish gluten free?

Yes, it can be! Just make sure your BBQ sauce and cheese are certified gluten free, and you’re good to go for a naturally gluten free BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl.

Can I add other vegetables to the bowl?

Of course! Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even steamed broccoli are tasty additions. The bowl is endlessly adaptable to what’s in your crisper drawer.

Final Thoughts

Give this BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl a whirl and watch it become a weeknight staple in your kitchen. It’s nourishing, utterly crave-worthy, and loaded with color and texture—truly a happy meal in a bowl. I can’t wait for you to make it your own!