There’s something comforting about a meal that brings together wholesome ingredients in one bowl; especially when that bowl is filled with tender chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, and fluffy rice. My Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl is a modern twist on a family favorite I used to enjoy with Nonna. She’d roast root vegetables slowly, their edges crisp and centers buttery soft, while chicken simmered gently in olive oil and herbs. Today, this bowl captures that same homely comfort but in a fresh, vibrant way; perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Sweet Potato Chicken Rice Bowl is everything you want in a hearty, balanced meal; flavorful, nutrient-packed, and endlessly adaptable. You’ll love how quickly it comes together with everyday ingredients yet feels like a restaurant-worthy dish. Sweet potatoes lend a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory, well-seasoned chicken. Add a bed of steamed rice, and you’ve got a complete meal ready in 30 minutes.
The best part? It’s completely customizable. Swap brown rice for jasmine, add a drizzle of spicy mayo, or top it with a fried egg for extra protein. Just like the flavors in Street Corn Chicken Rice, every bite is layered with comfort and satisfaction.
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Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl
This comforting Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl combines roasted sweet potatoes, juicy seasoned chicken, and tender rice for a balanced, nourishing meal. Inspired by my Nonna’s kitchen, it’s wholesome, colorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 2 bowls 1x
Ingredients
2 boneless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice or balsamic glaze
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, and salt.
3. Roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then sear each side for 6–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
6. Warm your rice and season lightly with salt or soy sauce.
7. Assemble the bowl: rice first, then sweet potatoes, chicken, and greens.
8. Drizzle lemon juice or glaze.
9. Serve warm and enjoy your Sweet Potato Chicken Rice Bowl!
Notes
Top with a fried egg for extra protein.
Use jasmine rice for a softer texture or brown rice for more fiber.
Replace chicken with tofu or shrimp for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop & Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this Chicken Bowl:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Boneless chicken breasts (or thighs) | 2 pieces |
Sweet potatoes, diced | 2 medium |
Cooked rice (white or brown) | 2 cups |
Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
Garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper | To taste |
Spinach or kale (optional) | 1 cup |
Lemon juice or balsamic glaze | 1 tbsp |
I like to season my chicken using a touch of mustard, garlic, and olive oil makes it tender and flavorful every time.
How to Make Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, and salt. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and soft inside. - Cook the Chicken
While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then sear the chicken breasts for about 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Slice into strips once rested. - Prepare the Rice Base
Warm up your rice and season it lightly with salt or a splash of soy sauce. You can use brown rice for a fiber boost or jasmine for a softer texture. If you love buttery rice, try the method from Stick of Butter Rice for an extra rich base. - Assemble the Bowl
Layer the rice first, then top it with roasted sweet potatoes, sliced chicken, and a handful of greens. Finish with lemon juice or your favorite sauce.
This Sweet Potato Chicken Rice Bowl is ideal for meal prep; you can store it in containers for up to four days, reheating easily for lunch or dinner.
For more one-bowl comfort meals, check out my Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, another cozy favorite straight from my kitchen to yours.
Tips and Variations
- Flavor upgrades: Add roasted garlic or caramelized onions for sweetness.
- Spice twist: Toss in a pinch of chili flakes or drizzle with sriracha for heat.
- Vegetable swaps: Substitute sweet potatoes with Roasted Sweet Potatoes if you like a crispier edge.
- Protein options: Replace chicken with tofu or shrimp for a lighter take.
Like my Pepper Steak with Onions, this bowl adapts beautifully to what you have in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. It’s a great choice for a healthier Chicken Bowl.
What sauce pairs best with this dish?
A honey mustard or teriyaki glaze works wonderfully. Try inspiration from my Smothered Chicken and Rice for extra flavor depth.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Swap the chicken with roasted chickpeas or tofu and drizzle with lemon tahini sauce.
Can I meal prep this bowl for the week?
Absolutely. Store portions separately, then assemble before serving to keep textures fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl is proof that comfort and health can coexist in one dish. The roasted sweetness of the potatoes balances the savory chicken perfectly, while the rice ties everything together into a warm, nourishing bite. It’s quick to make, easy to adapt, and always satisfying, a bowl that feels like a hug from the inside out.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.