Name: Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts; 2 medium sweet potatoes cubed; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cucumber sliced; 1 avocado sliced; 1 tsp sesame seeds optional

You guys! When my mom tasted this recipe she said I think that is one of the best things you have ever done and I have to say it quickly became one of my top favorites because a simple kitchen experiment turned into a meal I now make on repeat using Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl and it fits so easily into real life cooking while still feeling complete and well balanced.

This Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl comes together in a way that feels familiar yet practical and it uses everyday ingredients that work well together without feeling heavy while also being flexible enough for meal prep lunches busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners and that balance is exactly why it stays in my rotation.

I also love how Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl works across different moments because it can be prepped ahead packed for work lunches or served fresh at dinner and the components stay consistent and reliable which makes planning easier and less stressful overall.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe and you can always adjust based on what you have on hand.

Chicken thighs or breasts: The main protein that provides structure and makes the bowl filling and satisfying.
Sweet potatoes: These add natural sweetness and a soft hearty texture that pairs well with savory chicken.
White rice: A neutral base that absorbs flavors and ties all the components together.
Olive oil: Helps roast the chicken and sweet potatoes evenly while preventing dryness.
Honey: Adds a light sweetness that balances the savory seasoning on the chicken.
Garlic powder: Brings depth and aroma without overpowering the other flavors.
Paprika: Adds gentle warmth and color to the chicken and sweet potatoes.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps everything well seasoned.
Black pepper: Adds mild heat and balance.
Fresh cucumbers: Provide crunch and freshness that contrast the warm elements.
Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats to round out the bowl.
Sesame seeds: Optional but great for texture and a subtle nutty finish.

Tools You’ll Need

Baking sheet: Used to roast the chicken and sweet potatoes evenly in the oven.
Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Chef’s knife: Needed for cutting chicken sweet potatoes cucumbers and avocado cleanly.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for prepping all ingredients safely.
Medium pot: Used to cook the rice until fluffy and tender.
Measuring cups and spoons: Help keep seasoning and portions consistent.
Mixing bowl: Used to coat the chicken and sweet potatoes evenly with oil and seasoning.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

I start by preheating my oven to 400°F so it is fully hot by the time everything goes in and this helps the chicken and sweet potatoes roast instead of steam.

Step 2: Prep the Sweet Potatoes

I peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes so they cook at the same rate then I place them in a bowl drizzle with olive oil and season with salt pepper and paprika while tossing until fully coated.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

I pat the chicken dry first because that helps with browning then I coat it with olive oil garlic powder paprika salt pepper and a light drizzle of honey making sure every piece is well seasoned.

Step 4: Roast Everything

I line a baking sheet with parchment paper then spread the sweet potatoes out evenly and place the chicken between them leaving space so everything roasts properly then I bake for about 25 to 30 minutes flipping the sweet potatoes halfway through until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

While everything roasts I cook the rice in a pot according to package instructions and once it is done I fluff it with a fork and keep it warm until assembly.

Step 6: Rest and Slice the Chicken

I let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking so the juices stay inside then I slice it into strips for easy serving.

Step 7: prepare fresh cucumber

Step 8: Assemble the Bowls

I start with a base of rice then add roasted sweet potatoes sliced chicken fresh cucumber avocado and a sprinkle of sesame seeds and I finish with a small drizzle of honey if I want extra balance.

Tips

I have found that using chicken thighs keeps the meat extra juicy but chicken breasts work just as well if that is what you prefer and if I am meal prepping I slightly undercook the chicken so it stays tender when reheated and for extra flavor I sometimes marinate the chicken for a few hours ahead which makes an even bigger difference with very little extra effort.

Ways to Serve

I usually serve Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl warm right after assembling but it also works well slightly chilled which makes it perfect for packed lunches and sometimes I set all the components out buffet style so everyone can build their own bowl and adjust portions and toppings based on preference which works especially well for family meals or casual gatherings.

Storage Instructions

I store the chicken sweet potatoes and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator because this keeps everything fresh and prevents sogginess and they stay good for up to four days and when reheating I warm the rice and chicken gently then add fresh cucumber and avocado after to keep the textures balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I meal prep Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl for the week?

Yes this recipe is excellent for meal prep because the components hold up well and reheat evenly.

What type of chicken works best for Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl?

Both chicken thighs and breasts work well depending on whether you prefer juicier or leaner meat.

Is Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl healthy?

Yes it provides balanced protein carbohydrates and healthy fats when served with fresh vegetables.

Can I substitute brown rice in Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl?

Absolutely brown rice or even quinoa can be used depending on your preference.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this Chicken and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl and make it your own because it is one of those meals that fits easily into everyday life and always feels satisfying and if you do make it I would love to hear how it turned out so be sure to save it and come back to it anytime.

Happy Cooking!