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Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl

Delicious Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl for Perfect Meals

This Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl is a satisfying and nutritious meal bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Main dishes
Cuisine American
Servings 4 bowls
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Whisk
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife
  • Meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts You can substitute thighs for a juicier option.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil This adds richness and helps the spices cling to the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice This acidity enhances the flavor and tenderizes the chicken.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Garlic infuses a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika It brings a nice warmth and smokiness to the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin This spice adds an earthy flavor that complements the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Oregano gives an herbaceous note that ties the flavors together.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper Add it if you like some heat in your bowl.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

For the Sweet Potatoes

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes When roasted, they caramelize beautifully, adding natural sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adding this to the sweet potatoes deepens their flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon It adds warmth and pairs well with the sweetness of the potatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Important for elevating the sweetness of the potatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Important for elevating the sweetness of the potatoes.

For the Bowl Assembly

  • 2 cups cooked brown rice, quinoa, or farro These whole grains provide a great base and texture.
  • 1 can canned black beans Rinsed and drained, they contribute protein and fiber.
  • 1 cup corn kernels Sweet corn adds freshness and sweetness to your bowl.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved These juicy bites add a burst of flavor and color.
  • 1 medium avocado Creamy avocado complements the other ingredients perfectly.
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced Adds a sharp crunch for contrast against the other textures.
  • 2 cups shredded purple cabbage or baby spinach Adds crunch, nutrients, and vibrant color.
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, roughly chopped A sprinkle of herbs brightens the dish and enhances flavor.
  • 2 wedge lime or lemon Serve on the side for an extra squeeze of freshness.

For the Yogurt-Lime Dressing

  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt This makes for a creamy, tangy base full of protein.
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or olive oil Use either to adjust creaminess to your preference.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice It brightens up the dressing and balances the flavors.
  • 1 clove garlic, very finely minced Adds a zesty kick to the dressing.
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup A touch of sweetness harmonizes the flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin These spices add depth of flavor to the dressing.
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika These spices add depth of flavor to the dressing.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for balanced seasoning.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper Essential for balanced seasoning.
  • 1 tablespoon water Add to thin the dressing to your desired consistency.

Optional Toppings

  • ½ cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese These add a salty creaminess that enriches the dish.
  • ¼ cup pickled jalapeños or fresh sliced chili For an extra kick that spice lovers will appreciate.
  • ¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
  • to taste hot sauce or sriracha For those who crave more heat in their bowl.

Instructions
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

  • Marinate the Chicken: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them in a shallow dish or resealable bag. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning it to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
  • Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it for easy cleanup. In a large mixing bowl, toss the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper until they are fully coated. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet for even roasting.
  • Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Place the baking sheet with the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven and roast for 20–30 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure they caramelize evenly. They are ready when the edges are golden-brown and the centers feel tender when pierced with a fork. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them sit while you prepare the other elements of your Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl.
  • Cook the Grains: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, cook your choice of brown rice, quinoa, or farro according to the package instructions. Generally, this will take about 15-20 minutes, so time it to be ready when the chicken and sweet potatoes are done. Fluff the grains with a fork afterward and season lightly with salt and a drizzle of olive oil or lime juice for flavor.
  • Prepare the Yogurt-Lime Dressing: In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise or olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This yogurt-lime dressing adds a delightful tang to the Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl, so refrigerate it until you're ready to serve.
  • Chop and Prep Fresh Ingredients: Rinse and drain the canned black beans. If using canned corn, drain it; if you're using frozen corn, thaw and pat dry. Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion. Prepare your cabbage or baby spinach, and just before assembly, slice or dice the avocado to maintain its freshness and color.
  • Grill the Chicken: Preheat an outdoor grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, lightly oiling the grates to prevent sticking. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let any excess marinade drip off. Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until it is nicely charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, tent the chicken with foil and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
  • Warm the Beans and Corn (Optional): In a small skillet over medium heat, you can warm the black beans and corn if you prefer them hot in your bowl. Add a drizzle of olive oil and season lightly, cooking just until warmed through for about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow them to cool slightly before adding to your bowl assembly.
  • Assemble the Bowls: Begin assembling your Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl by dividing your cooked grains among bowls as the base. Arrange the roasted sweet potatoes, warmed beans and corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shredded cabbage or spinach in colorful, distinct sections over the grains. Top each bowl with sliced grilled chicken, avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley for an inviting finish.
  • Add the Dressing and Serve: Drizzle the yogurt-lime dressing generously over each assembled bowl. Add any optional toppings, such as crumbled feta, pickled jalapeños, or toasted pumpkin seeds to personalize your dish. Serve your Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl immediately with lemon or lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus.

Notes

Allow the chicken to marinate for maximum flavor and tenderness. Flip the sweet potatoes halfway through roasting for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked properly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 40gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 12gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 20mg
Keyword Grilled Chicken, Healthy Meal, meal prep, Nutritious Dinner, Quick Recipe, sweet potato bowl
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