Healthy Sheet Pan Chicken And Sweet Potatoes

Name: Healthy Sheet Pan Chicken And Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups sweet potatoes, cubed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Favorites

I often find myself craving convenience without sacrificing nutrition, and that's where this healthy sheet pan chicken and sweet potatoes recipe comes in. It’s the perfect blend of savory chicken and sweet, caramelized potatoes, all cooked together for a simple yet satisfying meal. Using minimal ingredients and just one pan means clean-up is a breeze, too! It’s become a go-to in our household for busy weeknights, providing both flavor and nourishment in about 30 minutes.

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:02:36.655Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how simple and quick it is to prepare a healthy meal without skimping on flavor. I seasoned the chicken with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne, which not only adds taste but also a dash of color. The secret lies in using a single sheet pan, which allows the juices from the chicken to flavor the sweet potatoes as they roast together.

This dish is particularly satisfying on busy days when I want something nutritious without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. I recommend using a mix of sweet potatoes and their colorful cousins, like purple or fingerlings, for added nutrients and visual appeal. Trust me, it transforms an easy recipe into a feast!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pan cleanup makes busy weeknights manageable
Flavorful combination of savory chicken and sweet, caramelized potatoes
Customizable with your favorite veggies or seasonings

Key Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Chicken and Potatoes

One of the secrets to ensuring your chicken breasts are juicy and flavorful is to utilize a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee doneness without drying out the meat. Additionally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite.

For the sweet potatoes, the size of your cubes is essential. Aim for uniform pieces about 1-inch in size, which will promote even cooking and caramelization. If you're looking for extra sweetness, consider adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup during the last few minutes of baking. This will enhance their natural sweetness and create a delightful glaze.

Customizing Your One-Pan Meal

This sheet pan chicken and sweet potatoes recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, which can be added to the mix during the last 10 minutes of baking to ensure crisp-tender results. Seasoning adjustments, like using Italian herbs or citrus zest, can also transform the flavor profile to suit your taste preferences.

If you're following a specific dietary regimen, there are easy substitutions. For a lower-carb option, consider replacing sweet potatoes with cauliflower florets. For those needing gluten-free options, rest assured that this recipe naturally meets that requirement as all ingredients listed are gluten-free. This makes it not only adaptable but also accessible for a variety of dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sweet Potatoes

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups sweet potatoes, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add any additional vegetables that you enjoy!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Chicken and Sweet Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

Arrange on Sheet Pan

Spread the sweet potatoes on one side of a large baking sheet. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and cayenne, and place them on the other side of the sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve

Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice the chicken and serve alongside the sweet potatoes.

Enjoy your nutritious and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite herbs or an overnight lemon marinade. Adding vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts can provide extra nutrition.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers from this sheet pan meal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using an oven set to 350°F (175°C) to maintain the texture of the chicken and potatoes; aim for 10-15 minutes or until thoroughly heated, covering with foil to prevent drying out.

For longer storage, this dish can also be frozen. Simply place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and consume within 3 months for optimal freshness. Reheat directly from frozen, increasing the time to about 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven, and keep an eye on the internal temperature of the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

This meal is satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed greens to add freshness and balance. A light lemon vinaigrette can brighten the meal, enhancing the savory elements of the chicken and sweetness of the potatoes.

For a heartier option, consider serving this dish alongside a quinoa or grain salad, which can absorb the savory drippings from the chicken. I often find that a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta can elevate the dish further by adding creaminess and a tangy contrast to the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but the cooking time may need to be increased. Make sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add carrots, bell peppers, or even broccoli for variety and nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your seasonings are gluten-free as well.