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Sweet potato skillet with BBQ chicken, melted cheese, and fresh herbs served in a cast‑iron pan

Sweet Potato Skillet with BBQ Chicken & Cheese – Easy, Cheesy, and Flavorful

This Sweet Potato Skillet with BBQ Chicken & Cheese Recipe is a flavorful one‑pan meal that combines tender roasted sweet potatoes, juicy BBQ chicken, and melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food. Easy to prepare and packed with smoky, savory goodness, it’s a dish that works for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or casual entertaining. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this skillet is as satisfying as it is delicious.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch, Meal Prep
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Pro tip: A cast iron skillet ensures even cooking and crisp, caramelized edges on sweet potatoes.

Ingredients
  

  • 2–3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled (optional) and diced
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie, grilled, or baked)
  • ½–¾ cup BBQ sauce
  • 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, diced (optional)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 1–1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combo)
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (cilantro or parsley)
  • Seasonings: salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder (to taste)

Instructions
 

  • Prep Sweet Potatoes: Peel (optional) and dice sweet potatoes into even cubes. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  • Cook Sweet Potatoes: Sauté on stove or roast in the oven until tender and lightly caramelized.
  • Prepare Chicken: Shred pre-cooked chicken and toss with BBQ sauce until coated.
  • Combine in Skillet: Layer sweet potatoes, chicken, and optional vegetables in the skillet. Mix gently for even distribution.
  • Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
  • Melt Cheese: Cover skillet or bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Garnish & Serve: Top with fresh herbs or green onions. Serve directly from the skillet.

Notes

  • Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free if using plain BBQ sauce.
  • Keto-Friendly: Replace sweet potatoes with cauliflower or zucchini.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble ingredients in skillet and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
  • Variations: Spicy (add chili flakes), Buffalo twist (use buffalo sauce), Loaded veggie (add bell peppers, corn, or zucchini), Extra cheesy (broil at end), Sheet pan method (roast all on pan).
  • Storage: Refrigerate up to 3–4 days; freeze up to 3 months. Reheat in skillet or oven for best texture.
Keyword BBQ chicken skillet, cheesy dinner, healthy comfort food, one-pan meal, Sweet potato skillet, weeknight dinner