Pin It Fluffy roasted sweet potatoes are filled with tender honey BBQ chicken, topped with melty cheese and fresh herbs for a satisfying, flavor-packed meal. This easy American recipe is naturally gluten-free and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Pin It The process of roasting the potatoes whole allows them to steam in their own skins, resulting in a creamy texture that acts as the perfect vessel for the smoky chicken filling. By mixing a bit of the potato flesh back into the chicken mixture, every bite is infused with a rich, balanced flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade, gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Season
- Rub each sweet potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Prick potatoes several times with a fork.
- Step 3: Roast
- Roast sweet potatoes on the prepared baking sheet for 40–50 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Step 4: Mix Filling
- While the sweet potatoes bake, mix shredded chicken, honey BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl until well combined.
- Step 5: Prepare Boats
- When sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice each lengthwise and gently scoop out some flesh to create a boat, leaving about 1/4-inch border.
- Step 6: Combine
- Add some of the scooped sweet potato flesh to the chicken mixture and stir together.
- Step 7: Stuff
- Fill each sweet potato boat with the BBQ chicken mixture. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 8: Melt
- Return stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, until cheese melts.
- Step 9: Garnish
- Garnish with green onions and cilantro before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the sweet potatoes roast evenly, choose ones that are similar in size. Pricking them with a fork is a vital step to prevent them from bursting in the oven. If you are in a rush, you can use a rotisserie chicken to save time on shredding.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a smoky twist, add a pinch of chipotle powder to the chicken mixture. You can also substitute mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile. To make this dish dairy-free, simply use a plant-based cheese or omit the cheese topping entirely.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these stuffed potatoes with a fresh side salad for a complete and balanced meal. They also pair well with a side of steamed broccoli or a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess.
Pin It These Honey BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a fantastic way to elevate a simple dinner. With their vibrant colors and bold textures, they are as beautiful to serve as they are delicious to eat. Enjoy this easy, comforting meal tonight!
Questions & Answers
- → Can I make these stuffed sweet potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the sweet potatoes and prepare the BBQ chicken filling up to 2 days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the potatoes, fill them with the chicken mixture, add cheese, and bake until melted and bubbly.
- → What other proteins work well in this dish?
Pulled pork or shredded beef make excellent substitutes for chicken. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or try a vegetarian version with black beans, corn, and extra cheese. The BBQ sauce pairs well with almost any protein option.
- → How do I know when the sweet potatoes are fully roasted?
Insert a fork into the thickest part of the sweet potato. If it slides in easily with no resistance and the skin feels slightly crispy, they're done. The internal temperature should reach about 205°F. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your potatoes.
- → Can I cook these in the microwave instead of the oven?
While you can microwave the sweet potatoes to save time, they won't develop the same caramelized exterior flavor. Pierce with a fork and cook on high for 5-7 minutes per potato, turning halfway. After microwaving, proceed with stuffing and broil briefly to melt the cheese.
- → What sides pair well with this meal?
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts complement the sweetness. Coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, while cornbread makes a great comforting side to soak up extra BBQ sauce.
- → How can I add more heat to this dish?
Mix diced jalapeños into the chicken filling or use a spicy BBQ sauce. A pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder adds smoky heat. Sriracha drizzled over the top or hot sauce on the side lets diners adjust spice levels to their preference.