Chicken Breast with Sweet Potatoes
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Chicken Breast with Sweet Potatoes recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
This dish combines tender chicken breast with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, making it a comforting yet nutritious meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken breast infused with aromatic herbs
- Sweet potatoes that caramelize beautifully in the oven
- A well-balanced meal that is both satisfying and healthy
A Flavorful Combination
This Chicken Breast with Sweet Potatoes recipe brings together the juiciness of perfectly cooked chicken with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. The use of aromatic herbs and spices elevates simple ingredients into a delightful culinary experience. You'll appreciate how these flavors complement each other, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Cooking chicken breasts can often result in dry meat if not done correctly. However, this recipe ensures that the chicken remains moist and flavorful by marinating it with a blend of herbs and olive oil. The paprika and garlic powder add depth while enhancing the chicken's natural flavors, making each bite a joyous experience.
Health Benefits
Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with vitamins A and C, they provide essential nutrients while offering a sweet, satisfying flavor that pairs well with savory dishes. Rich in fiber, sweet potatoes can aid digestion and help maintain a healthy weight, making them a perfect choice for a balanced meal.
Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making it a staple in many healthy diets. It supports muscle growth and repair while being low in fat. Coupled with the fiber-rich sweet potatoes, this meal offers a well-rounded balance of protein and carbohydrates, ensuring you feel full and energized without the heaviness of processed foods.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This recipe is not just ideal for a quick weeknight dinner; it's also fantastic for meal prepping. You can easily double the recipe to have leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Simply store the cooked chicken and sweet potatoes in airtight containers in the fridge, and enjoy them reheated in minutes.
The versatility of this dish allows you to mix and match with various sides or salads, depending on your preferences. Pair it with a green salad or some steamed vegetables for added nutrition. This adaptability makes it a go-to option for those busy days when you want something healthy and delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
Make sure to wash all vegetables thoroughly before use.
Instructions
Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the chicken breasts.
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
In another bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, cinnamon, and salt.
Bake
Place the chicken and sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the roasted sweet potatoes.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours before cooking.
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken breasts cook evenly, try to select pieces that are similar in size. If they vary in thickness, you can pound them down gently to a uniform thickness, which will help them cook more consistently. This technique also tenderizes the meat, making it even more enjoyable.
Don't skip the resting time after baking. Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chicken breast. This small step can make a significant difference in your dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Breast with Sweet Potatoes alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully. You can also add nuts or seeds for an extra crunch and a boost of nutrition.
For a heartier option, consider adding a side of quinoa or brown rice. These whole grains will enhance the meal's texture and offer additional fiber, making your dinner even more satisfying. You might also drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the finished dish for a touch of acidity that brightens the flavors.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
→ What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?
Butternut squash or regular potatoes can be used as alternatives.
→ Can this recipe be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare and season the chicken and sweet potatoes a day ahead and bake them when ready.
→ How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
Chicken Breast with Sweet Potatoes
This Chicken Breast with Sweet Potatoes recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Created by: Sienna Brooks
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the chicken breasts.
In another bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, cinnamon, and salt.
Place the chicken and sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the roasted sweet potatoes.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours before cooking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 28g