There’s something about summer that brings back memories of sizzling grills and colourful garden harvests. One of my favourite go-to dishes this time of year is BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls. This meal strikes a beautiful balance between hearty and refreshing—smoky barbecued chicken, tender roasted sweet potatoes, and a medley of fresh toppings come together in one vibrant bowl.
I first came across a version of this dish at a backyard BBQ in Georgia, where my cousin married Southern spice with modern meal prep. Inspired by my Italian roots and our love for balanced, wholesome plates, I’ve since perfected this recipe with a few Sarah-style twists—think a dash of paprika and a dollop of herbed yogurt. It’s ideal for meal-prepping, weeknight dinners, or impressing guests at your next barbecue.
Why You’ll Love BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls
- Flavorful & Nutritious: Packed with protein, fibre, and vibrant veggies.
- Perfect for Summer: Light yet satisfying—ideal for warm days.
- Easy to customise: Swap toppings or sauce to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for easy lunches.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the BBQ Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional Bowl Toppings:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Pickled jalapeños (for a kick)
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa (as a base)
Herbed Yogurt Sauce (Optional):
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine chicken breasts with BBQ sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to 2 hours in the fridge.
Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
Step 3: Grill or Pan-Sear the Chicken
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Make the Herbed Yogurt Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
- Start with a base of brown rice or quinoa.
- Top with sliced BBQ chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, and your favourite toppings.
- Drizzle with herbed yogurt sauce and garnish with fresh herbs.
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls
- Grill Marks Matter: For extra smoky flavour, use a grill pan or outdoor grill.
- Sauce Swap: Try chipotle mayo, avocado crema, or classic ranch for different vibes.
- Make It Vegan: Swap chicken for grilled tofu and use plant-based yogurt.
Storage & Meal Prep
These bowls are fantastic for weekly meal planning. Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat the chicken and sweet potatoes gently, and add fresh toppings just before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
- Drink: Try a chilled glass of iced tea, citrusy white wine, or sparkling lemonade.
- Side: Pair with grilled corn on the cob or a fresh cucumber salad.
A Final Word from Sarah
I love how this dish brings together the smoky magic of BBQ with the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes—it’s comforting, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re prepping for the week or feeding a hungry summer crowd, these BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls deliver every time.
If you’re looking for more ways to keep your chicken juicy and flavorful, check out More Juicy Chicken Breast Recipes. To customise the sauce in this bowl or explore new flavour combinations, you might enjoy reading about How to Make Your Own BBQ Sauce. For perfectly cooked sweet potatoes every time, here’s a great guide on Perfect Roasted Sweet Potatoes.
Want to sharpen your grilling game? Don’t miss these Grilled Chicken Tips. And for more bowl-style meals that are healthy and simple, try some ideas from Healthy Bowl Meal Ideas.