This stuffed sweet potato is packed with flavor! It’s filled with tender chicken, black beans, and cheese, creating a warm and filling meal that’s good for you.
I love how easy it is to make. Just bake the sweet potatoes, mix in the goodies, and enjoy! Plus, it’s perfect for a quick dinner after a long day. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with savory flavors. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, try using regular baking potatoes or butternut squash for a different twist, though the taste will vary.
Cooked Chicken: Use shredded or diced chicken. A rotisserie chicken works well for convenience. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap in cooked quinoa or black beans.
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice crunch and sweetness. If they’re too strong for your taste, you can use green onions or white onions instead; just adjust the amounts to suit your preference.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives the dish a burst of flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley works as a good substitute for a milder taste.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you want a dairy-free option, try using avocado or a cashew cream instead!
How Do I Bake Sweet Potatoes to Get Them Just Right?
Baking sweet potatoes is simple but needs a bit of care for the best results. The goal is to make them tender and sweet without drying them out.
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking the potatoes evenly.
- Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and dry them off. Pricking them with a fork helps steam escape while baking, preventing them from bursting.
- Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt for flavor. This will help create a nice skin.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for about 45-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a knife; it should slide through easily.
Let them cool slightly before slicing, as they’ll be very hot. The result should be a soft, sweet inside ready for your delicious filling!
Stuffed Sweet Potato With Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for sauce)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: sliced green onions or chopped jalapeños for garnish
Time Needed
This delicious dish will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including 60 minutes for baking the sweet potatoes and 15 minutes for preparation and assembly. It’s a wonderful, filling meal perfect for any night of the week!
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, wash and dry your sweet potatoes thoroughly. Prick each potato several times with a fork, which allows steam to escape while baking. Lightly rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt for flavor.
2. Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 45-60 minutes. They should be tender when a knife easily pierces through the flesh. If you have larger potatoes, you might need a bit more time.
3. Prepare the Chicken Filling
While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare your chicken filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken, finely chopped red onion, cilantro, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Make the Lime Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) with lime juice. Taste the sauce and add salt if needed to adjust the flavor. This will add a creamy, tangy touch to your stuffed potatoes.
5. Stuff the Sweet Potatoes
Once the sweet potatoes are out of the oven and cool enough to handle, carefully slice each potato lengthwise down the center, taking care not to cut all the way through. Using a fork, gently mash the inside flesh to create a nice base for stuffing.
6. Fill and Garnish
Generously fill each sweet potato with the spiced chicken mixture, packing it in well. Drizzle the lime sour cream sauce over the tops of the stuffed potatoes. To finish, garnish with extra cilantro and add sliced green onions or jalapeños if you like a little heat.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your stuffed sweet potatoes are now ready! Serve them warm and enjoy this hearty and flavorful meal that’s sure to be a hit!
This recipe delivers a balanced mix of spices and fresh herbs that beautifully complements the sweetness of the potatoes and the savory chicken. Enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal!
Can I Use Other Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap in cooked turkey, beef, or even plant-based proteins like black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version. Adjust the seasoning to match the protein you choose!
Can I Prepare These Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake the sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave before stuffing and serving!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through. The sweet potato might lose some texture but will still be delicious!
What Can I Serve with Stuffed Sweet Potatoes?
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition. You could also add a side of avocado or guacamole for a creamy contrast!