Description

Imagine a plate of succulent BBQ chicken, its smoky-sweet aroma wafting through the air, tucked into a caramelized, tender sweet potato. This is the delight of our BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes. This recipe hails from the heart of southern American cuisine, where barbecues are a cherished tradition and sweet potatoes are a staple. What makes this dish truly special is the harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, and the contrast of textures between the soft sweet potato and the juicy chicken. This recipe is also a joy to prepare, with its simple steps and wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

• For the sweet potatoes:
• - 4 medium sweet potatoes
• - 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• - A pinch of salt
• For the BBQ chicken:
• - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• - 2 cups of your favorite BBQ sauce
• - 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• - Salt and pepper to taste
• For the garnish:
• - Fresh cilantro leaves
• - 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• - Sour cream (optional)
• Substitutions: You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version. If you're not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or green onions work well too.

Preparation Method

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, wash and dry your sweet potatoes. Rub them with olive oil, sprinkle a pinch of salt on each, and place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.

Bake the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until they're soft when pierced with a fork. While the sweet potatoes are baking, you can prepare the BBQ chicken.

Heat olive oil in a pan on medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste, and add them to the pan. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. Remove from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes.

Once cooled slightly, shred the chicken using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pan and add your favorite BBQ sauce. Mix well to ensure every piece of chicken is coated with the sauce. Simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

After the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly before cutting a slit down the center of each. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Push the ends towards the center to open up the potato.

Spoon the BBQ chicken into the sweet potatoes. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and return to the oven for a few minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra flavor boost, you can garnish your BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad. To store leftovers, wrap each stuffed potato individually in aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy again.


Preparing our BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes is a culinary journey to the heart of southern cuisine, filled with the joy of crafting a hearty, comforting meal. The experience of savoring the sweet and savory flavors, the contrast of textures, and the warmth of the dish is one to relish. If you loved this recipe, do explore others such as our Classic Southern Fried Chicken or our Sweet Potato Casserole. We encourage you to share this recipe with your loved ones, and continue browsing through our pages for more delicious inspiration. Happy cooking!