If you are looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s both wholesome and packed with flavor, this BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe is absolutely a must-try. Roasted sweet potatoes create the perfect natural bowl, bringing a subtle sweetness that balances beautifully with tangy barbecue chicken and caramelized onions. With each bite, you’ll enjoy a feast of textures and colors that not only satisfy your cravings but also nourish your body. This recipe effortlessly combines simplicity with bold tastes, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the busy days ahead.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a vital role in creating a harmony of flavors and appealing textures that make this dish shine.
- 4 medium sweet potatoes: The naturally sweet, tender base that holds all the delicious fillings.
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast: Lean protein that soaks up the barbecue sauce wonderfully.
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (plus more for drizzling): Adds tangy, smoky richness that ties the dish together.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions to a perfect caramelization.
- ½ small red onion (thinly sliced): Offers a mild crunch and sweetness when caramelized.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts into gooey goodness, adding a creamy layer of comfort.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish: Finishing touches that bring freshness and a pop of color.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). After washing and scrubbing the sweet potatoes, prick them multiple times with a fork to help steam escape during roasting. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 45 to 50 minutes until they are tender all the way through—this is the foundation of our dish and getting them perfectly soft is crucial.
Step 2: Prepare the BBQ Chicken Filling
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, combine the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce in a medium mixing bowl. This step infuses the chicken with smoky sweetness so it becomes the star filling to complement the tender sweet potato.
Step 3: Sauté the Red Onions
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the thinly sliced red onions. Sauté them for around five minutes until they turn soft and start to caramelize, adding a mellow sweetness and texture contrast to the dish.
Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes
Once the sweet potatoes are out of the oven, carefully slice each one lengthwise, but don’t cut all the way through—they should open like a book. Fluff the insides gently with a fork and season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Now it’s time to fill them generously with the BBQ chicken mixture, pile on the caramelized onions, and sprinkle shredded cheddar if you’re using it.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese and Garnish
Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes, just enough to melt the cheese into a luscious topping. Remove them carefully, drizzle with extra barbecue sauce for an extra touch of flavor, and finally sprinkle the chopped cilantro or green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or bright green onions adds a fresh, herbal contrast that lifts the richness of the BBQ chicken and cheese, making your dish look as vibrant as it tastes. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a few red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a simple bowl of steamed corn to keep things light yet satisfying. For a heartier meal, pair it with a side of black beans or grilled corn salad for extra color and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
To make your BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe feel extra special for guests, try serving them on rustic wooden boards or brightly colored plates that emphasize the natural hues of the dish. You can also try halving small sweet potatoes for bite-sized appetizers or stuffing sweet potato skins for a delightful party snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve the best texture, keep the BBQ sauce and garnishes separate until you’re ready to serve again.
Freezing
You can freeze the stuffed sweet potatoes without cheese for longer storage. Wrap each one tightly in foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag; they keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw if frozen and warm the potatoes in a 350-degree oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Add cheese and any fresh garnishes after reheating to keep that fresh layered flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds excellent flavor. Just shred it and toss it with your favorite barbecue sauce before stuffing the sweet potatoes.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can simply omit the cheddar cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it creamy and melty without the dairy.
Can I add other vegetables to the stuffing?
Definitely! Black beans, corn, or even diced bell peppers make fantastic additions, bringing extra texture and a nutritional boost to your stuffed sweet potatoes.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
A tangy, slightly sweet barbecue sauce pairs best to complement the sweet potatoes without overpowering them. Feel free to use a sugar-free option for a lighter dish.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add finely chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture or sprinkle cayenne pepper before baking. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe is a delightful, cozy meal that brings together the best of flavors and textures with such ease. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something hearty and healthy, these stuffed sweet potatoes deliver in every way. Give it a go and enjoy the comforting, smoky, sweet, and savory explosion that this recipe brings to your table.
Print
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes recipe offers a wholesome, flavorful meal combining tender roasted sweet potatoes with savory barbecue chicken, caramelized onions, and melty cheddar cheese. Perfect for a nutritious gluten-free dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with balanced protein and fiber.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
BBQ Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly, then pierce each several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during roasting.
- Roast Sweet Potatoes: Place the pierced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 45–50 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center goes in easily and the potatoes are tender.
- Prepare BBQ Chicken Mixture: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, combine the cooked shredded chicken with ½ cup barbecue sauce in a medium bowl and mix well to coat.
- Sauté Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced red onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Slice and Fluff Sweet Potatoes: When the sweet potatoes are done, carefully slice each one lengthwise down the center without cutting through completely. Use a fork to fluff the inside of the potatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff and Top: Fill each sweet potato cavity with the BBQ chicken mixture, then top with the sautéed onions and shredded cheddar cheese if using.
- Melt Cheese: Return the stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, drizzle with extra barbecue sauce, and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience and flavor.
- Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce to reduce sugar content.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and nutritional value.
