BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe
If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with color, flavor, and wholesome goodness, BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls are about to become your new obsession. This dish brings together smoky roasted sweet potatoes, juicy BBQ-glazed chicken, hearty grains, and all the vibrant toppings you crave in one beautiful bowl. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, these bowls make healthy eating genuinely exciting. With every bite, you get a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy—trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat!
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls are simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the sweetness of the potatoes to the creamy avocado and zesty barbecue sauce, every element brings something special to the table.
- Sweet Potatoes: Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and gives them irresistible crispy edges.
- Olive Oil: Helps the sweet potatoes caramelize and keeps the chicken juicy as it cooks.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that enhances both the sweet potatoes and the overall bowl.
- Garlic Powder: Gives a gentle savory kick to the roasted veggies.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of each ingredient.
- Black Pepper: Balances the sweetness with a touch of heat.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The hearty, protein-packed center of your bowl.
- Barbecue Sauce: Sweet, tangy, and smoky—this is what ties the chicken together with everything else.
- Brown Rice or Quinoa: Provides a nutty, satisfying base that soaks up all the flavors.
- Black Beans: Add creaminess and extra protein while making the bowls even more filling.
- Corn: Offers juicy pops of sweetness—use fresh, canned, or frozen, whatever you have on hand.
- Avocado: Slices of creamy avocado bring luxurious texture and healthy fats.
- Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of herbs brightens up every bite.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime just before serving wakes up all the flavors in your BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls.
How to Make BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Toss the peeled and diced sweet potatoes with one tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Spread them in a single layer so they roast evenly—crowding leads to steaming instead of that coveted crispiness. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re tender and golden at the edges.
Step 2: Cook the BBQ Chicken
While your sweet potatoes are working their magic in the oven, heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper, then sear them for 6 to 7 minutes per side until cooked through and golden brown. In the last few minutes, generously brush each piece with barbecue sauce, letting it bubble and caramelize into a sticky, delicious glaze. Let the chicken rest for five minutes before slicing to keep all those juices locked in.
Step 3: Prepare the Grain Base
While the chicken and sweet potatoes cook, make sure your brown rice or quinoa is ready to go. You can use leftovers, microwaveable packets, or cook it fresh. Fluff the grains and divide them among four bowls—this will be the hearty foundation for your BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
It’s time for the best part—assembling your masterpiece! To each bowl, add a generous scoop of roasted sweet potatoes, sliced BBQ chicken, black beans, corn, creamy avocado slices, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Finish with an extra drizzle of barbecue sauce and tuck a lime wedge on the side for squeezing just before you dig in.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls
Garnishes
Garnishing your bowls takes them from simple to spectacular. A handful of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and herbal brightness, while avocado slices offer creamy richness. Don’t forget those lime wedges—just a quick squeeze over your BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls right before eating makes everything taste even fresher. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dash of extra smoked paprika on top can be a fun touch.
Side Dishes
These bowls are hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving them with a crisp green salad, grilled veggies, or even a little cornbread. Chilled watermelon or a simple fruit salad also pairs beautifully, especially during the warmer months when you want something light and refreshing alongside your BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the components family-style and let everyone build their own bowls. This is perfect for picky eaters or gatherings with friends. You can also layer everything in mason jars for a portable lunch option—just keep the avocado and sauce separate until you’re ready to eat. However you present them, these BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls always make a vibrant, inviting statement at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers are a dream with this recipe! Store any extra BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Keep the avocado and lime wedges separate until just before serving to keep everything tasting fresh and fabulous.
Freezing
Most components of these bowls freeze wonderfully, especially the chicken, sweet potatoes, and grains. Portion them into freezer-safe containers (skip the avocado and fresh cilantro), and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat before assembling with fresh garnishes.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken, sweet potatoes, beans, corn, and grains together in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add your fresh avocado, cilantro, and lime just before serving for the best texture and flavor. If you love a saucy bowl, don’t forget an extra drizzle of barbecue sauce after reheating!
FAQs
Can I make BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the chicken for grilled tofu, tempeh, or even extra black beans tossed in barbecue sauce. You’ll still get all the smoky, sweet, and savory goodness that makes these bowls irresistible.
What’s the best barbecue sauce to use?
You can use any barbecue sauce you love—sweet, smoky, spicy, or tangy. Homemade or store-bought both work great in BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls. If you want to keep things on the healthier side, look for a variety with less added sugar.
Can I use other grains instead of brown rice or quinoa?
Definitely! Try farro, cauliflower rice, or even leafy greens as your base. The beauty of BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls is how customizable they are to your tastes and pantry staples.
How can I make these bowls ahead for meal prep?
Prepare all the components (except the avocado and fresh cilantro) and store them separately or assembled in containers. Just add the avocado and fresh herbs right before eating to keep things vibrant and fresh. These bowls keep well for several days, making them perfect for grab-and-go lunches.
Are BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use a gluten-free barbecue sauce and grains, these bowls are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check labels if you have celiac or a gluten sensitivity, but this recipe is a safe and delicious option for gluten-free eaters.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to dig into these BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls. They’re vibrant, satisfying, and just a joy to eat—whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or packing tomorrow’s lunch. Give them a try and let this recipe become a staple in your kitchen!
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BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 bowls 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These BBQ Chicken & Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls combine tender, smoky barbecue chicken with roasted sweet potatoes and wholesome grains, creating a balanced and flavorful meal perfect for meal prep or a nutritious weeknight dinner. Packed with fiber-rich black beans, creamy avocado, and fresh cilantro, this dish offers vibrant, satisfying flavors with a healthy twist.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Roasting Mix
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Chicken and BBQ Sauce
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, plus more for drizzling
Bowl Components
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Roast Sweet Potatoes: Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and have a slightly crisp exterior.
- Cook Chicken: While the sweet potatoes roast, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Glaze Chicken with BBQ Sauce: During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken breasts with barbecue sauce, allowing it to caramelize slightly. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked brown rice or quinoa evenly among four bowls. Top each bowl with roasted sweet potatoes, sliced BBQ chicken, black beans, corn, avocado slices, and chopped cilantro.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle additional barbecue sauce over each bowl and serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty kick.
Notes
- For quicker preparation, opt for pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken tossed with BBQ sauce instead of cooking chicken breasts from scratch.
- These bowls store well and make excellent meal prep options; they can be enjoyed warm or cold.
- You can substitute brown rice with quinoa or any grain of your choice for variation.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sweet potatoes or BBQ sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 75mg