These Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls are packed with flavor and goodness! Tender pulled chicken sits on a bed of sweet potatoes, making for a tasty and filling meal that’s hard to resist.
Personally, I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top. It melts just right and takes it to another level of yum! Plus, it’s awesome for meal prep—perfect for busy weeks.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are the star here! If you can’t find them or want a different flavor, try using regular potatoes or even butternut squash. Both options will work well, providing a nice texture.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and shred. For a faster option, use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds a delightful flavor without any hassle!
Spices: Smoked paprika and chili powder create a warm taste. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika mixed with a little bit of liquid smoke can do the trick. Adjust the spice level to your liking by using more or less chili powder.
Greek Yogurt: This provides a creamy drizzle. If you prefer a dairy-free alternative, try coconut yogurt or cashew cream for a similar texture.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding chicken can seem tricky, but it’s super simple. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps retain moisture. Use two forks to pull apart the chicken: one to hold it in place and the other to shred. If it’s still warm, it should come apart easily!
- Cook chicken over medium heat until it’s done, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Let it rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Use two forks: one to hold the chicken and the other to shred it into pieces.
What’s the Best Way to Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions takes patience, but it’s worth it for that deep flavor! The key is to cook them low and slow for about 8-10 minutes. Start with medium heat, and stir frequently, allowing them to soften and turn golden brown. This really enhances their sweetness!
- Start with medium heat and a good amount of olive oil.
- Check them often and stir every couple of minutes to prevent burning.
- Cook until they’re soft, golden, and sweet for the best flavor!
How to Make Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Onions:
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for onions)
For the Garnish:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- 1 cup arugula or mixed greens
For the Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Optional: chili flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 40-45 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 30-35 minutes cooking and assembling the bowls. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, and make sure to stir them halfway through for even cooking. They should come out tender and slightly caramelized.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili powder and cumin. Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet, shred it with two forks, and set it aside.
3. Caramelize the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the sliced red onions and a tablespoon of olive oil. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally for about 8-10 minutes until the onions are soft and golden brown. This will enhance their natural sweetness and add great flavor to your bowls.
4. Prepare the Drizzle:
While the onions are caramelizing, mix the Greek yogurt or sour cream with lime juice and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. If you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add some chili flakes for a spicy kick!
5. Assemble the Bowls:
Now it’s time to put it all together! In each serving bowl, arrange a portion of roasted sweet potatoes, the shredded pulled chicken, caramelized onions, a handful of arugula or mixed greens, and some fresh cilantro.
6. Finish:
With everything in place, drizzle the lime yogurt sauce generously over the top of each bowl to add a creamy and tangy flavor.
7. Serve:
Garnish your bowls with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the refreshing blend of flavors!
This recipe is not only simple but also packed with nutrients and flavors that complement each other beautifully. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Sweet Potato Fries Instead of Diced Sweet Potatoes?
While we recommend using diced sweet potatoes for this recipe, sweet potato fries could work as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be different, so adjust accordingly and cook until crispy.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper to the chicken or the yogurt drizzle. For an extra kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or top with hot sauce before serving!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Meal Prep This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potatoes, chicken, and caramelized onions in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the bowls right before eating. They’ll stay fresh and delicious!