Name: BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; Seasoning: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Chicken: 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, ½ cup barbecue sauce; Additional: 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa, 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed, 1 cup corn kernels, 1 avocado, sliced, ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges for serving.

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If you’re looking for a meal that’s equal parts vibrant, hearty, and just straight-up delicious, look no further than BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls. This dish brings together juicy barbecue-glazed chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, nourishing grains, and all the fresh, colorful fixings for a bowl that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful. It’s one of those dinners that hits every note — sweet, smoky, tangy, creamy — and everyone at the table will be cleaning their bowls, guaranteed.

BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything about BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls shouts simplicity, and yet every ingredient does a little heavy lifting to bring out the best in flavor and texture. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh add-ins, you’re well on your way to a healthy, crowd-pleasing meal.

Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and creamy texture are magic when roasted until golden and tender.
Olive Oil: Helps those sweet potatoes caramelize and adds a subtle richness to every bite.
Smoked Paprika: Lends a gentle smokiness that pairs perfectly with barbecue flavors.
Garlic Powder: Infuses a subtle, savory depth that ties everything together.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to heighten all the natural flavors.
Chicken Breasts: Lean, protein-packed, and the perfect canvas for all that tangy BBQ sauce.
Barbecue Sauce: Go for your favorite brand or homemade blend for just the right sweet-spicy bite.
Brown Rice or Quinoa: A hearty, nutty base that soaks up every bit of goodness from your toppings.
Canned Black Beans: Adds a plant-based boost of protein and a soft, creamy bite.
Corn Kernels: Their natural sweetness and gentle pop add fun texture and color.
Avocado: Silky, rich slices bring a dreamy, fresh finish to each bowl.
Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of this bright herb wakes everything up with a hit of green freshness.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze just before digging in ties everything together with zing.

How to Make BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 425°F. While it’s warming up, toss your diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet (don’t crowd them — they need space to get crispy edges) and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Give them a flip halfway through for that irresistible golden color on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are caramelized and the centers are tender enough to pierce with a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the sweet potatoes do their thing in the oven, give your chicken a quick seasoning with salt and pepper. Either grill them up for those classic char marks or cook in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Make sure the chicken is cooked through and juicy, then let it rest for a few minutes. After resting, slice it up and toss the pieces in a generous coating of your favorite BBQ sauce.

Step 3: Prep the Bowl Base

Now’s the perfect time to prep your foundation: scoop a base of nutty brown rice or fluffy quinoa into each serving bowl. This not only adds heartiness but also soaks in all the saucy flavors from your toppings. If you’re feeling extra, warm the rice gently so it’s cozy and ready for layering.

Step 4: Assemble Your BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls

Divide the roasted sweet potatoes and BBQ chicken over the grains in each bowl. Then it’s time for the fun toppings: add a handful of black beans, scatter over bright yellow corn, and tuck in creamy slices of avocado. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Drizzle everything with a little more BBQ sauce (trust me, you won’t regret it) and serve with lime wedges for a final flourish of zing.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls

Garnishes

When it comes to finishing touches, don’t be shy! Fresh cilantro adds a bold, herby lift, while sliced avocado brings a cool contrast to the smoky flavors. Lime wedges are a must — a squeeze right before eating makes everything pop. A final drizzle of extra barbecue sauce ties the whole bowl together with irresistible stickiness and shine.

Side Dishes

BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls hold their own as a full meal, but if you want to round things out, light and crunchy sides work wonders. Think fresh garden salads, quick-pickled red onions, or even some lightly charred tortillas for scooping. A crisp cucumber salad or simple coleslaw also plays well with the smoky, sweet vibes.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is half the fun! Build mini bowls for a party platter, or serve everything family-style and let everyone build their own. For meal-prep magic, layer ingredients in glass jars for eye-catching, grab-and-go lunches. Want something fun for kids? Try deconstructing the bowls so everyone can choose their own adventure with mix-and-match toppings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store each component—grains, chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, and toppings—in separate airtight containers. This keeps everything fresh and prevents anything from getting soggy. Most of the ingredients will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making these bowls a great meal prep option for busy weeks.

Freezing

Both the barbecue chicken and plain roasted sweet potatoes freeze beautifully. Store them separately in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently. Avoid freezing avocado and fresh cilantro—add those right before serving for maximum freshness and flavor.

Reheating

Pop the sweet potatoes, BBQ chicken, and grains in the microwave or in a skillet until hot, being careful not to overcook the chicken. Give everything a good stir so it heats evenly. Add the cold components like avocado, cilantro, and lime wedge right before enjoying for the freshest result.

FAQs

What can I use instead of chicken for a vegetarian version?

Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh, tossed in barbecue sauce. Both absorb flavor wonderfully and make the BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls just as satisfying without meat.

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice or quinoa?

Absolutely! White rice works perfectly, or you can even try cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. The grains act as a flavorful base and soak up all the juicy toppings, whatever you choose.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild by default, but you can dial up the heat by choosing a spicier barbecue sauce or adding a sprinkle of chili flakes. For heat lovers, try tossing the chicken with a spicy BBQ sauce or adding pickled jalapeños as a topping!

Are BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free barbecue sauce and gluten-free grains (like quinoa or certified gluten-free brown rice), this dish is entirely gluten-free. Always check labels if gluten is a concern.

Can I double this recipe for meal prep?

Definitely! Double all the components and store them in the fridge for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week. The bowls are just as delicious served cold as they are warm, making meal prep simple and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

I just can’t say enough about these BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls—they’re irresistible comfort food that packs in nutrition, color, and huge flavor. They’ll quickly become a go-to for relaxed weeknights, easy meal prep, or casual gatherings with friends. Give them a try and let the mix of smoky, tangy, and sweet win you (and everyone at your table) over!

BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe

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4.9 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls are a delicious and balanced meal option, perfect for a healthy dinner or meal prep. Tender roasted sweet potatoes, flavorful BBQ chicken, and an array of toppings come together for a satisfying and nutritious bowl.

Ingredients

Sweet Potatoes:

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced;

Seasoning:

2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper;

Chicken:

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, ½ cup barbecue sauce;

Additional:

1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa, 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed, 1 cup corn kernels, 1 avocado, sliced, ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges for serving.

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Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 425°F.
Roast Sweet Potatoes: Toss sweet potatoes with seasonings, roast for 25-30 minutes.
Cook Chicken: Season and grill chicken until fully cooked.
Assemble Bowls: Divide rice or quinoa, top with sweet potatoes, BBQ chicken, beans, corn, avocado, and cilantro. Drizzle with more barbecue sauce and serve with lime wedges.