Vibrant Chili Lime Sweet Potato and Chicken Skillet

A Flavorful One-Pan Dish

Hola! Growing up surrounded by the zestful spices and warmth of Mexico has shaped my love for cooking in a vibrant way. In sunny Orlando, I spent countless joyful afternoons pressing tortillas next to my mama and absorbing my abuela’s sagas of spice and flavor. These cherished moments showed me that food is not just about sustenance; it’s about love, laughter, and memories wrapped in every delicious bite. Though I still relish the sunshine of Florida, pieces of my heart are forever intertwined with the bustling mercados of Oaxaca and the aroma of my abuela’s kitchen. Join me as I share this enticing chili lime sweet potato and chicken skillet recipe that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Mexican
Best Season: Year-round

What Makes This Dish Shine

Bursting with Flavor: The sweet potatoes pair perfectly with the smokiness of chili powder and the zest from fresh lime, creating a delightful contrast that your taste buds will adore. Each bite delivers a flavorful punch, making it an exciting choice for any meal.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the ease of a single skillet recipe, reducing cleanup and maximizing flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish saves time without sacrificing taste.
Healthy and Satisfying: Providing a wholesome blend of chicken, sweet potatoes, and spices, this meal is not only nourishing but also incredibly filling, ensuring everyone at the table leaves satisfied.
Versatile and Customizable: With simple ingredient swaps or added extras, you can easily modify this dish to cater to individual tastes or dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Chopped cilantro for garnish
Yogurt for serving

Fresh Ingredient Recommendations

Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm sweet potatoes with vibrant skin, avoiding any that have soft spots or blemishes. Fresh produce ensures the best flavor and texture.
Chicken Breast: Opt for organic or free-range chicken if possible, as it enhances the taste and promotes healthier eating.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor when sautéing the chicken and sweet potatoes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the olive oil carefully to avoid any splatter and ensure even cooking.
Once hot, add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned on all sides. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
Introduce the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet, along with chili powder and cumin. Stir everything together until the spices coat both the chicken and the sweet potatoes evenly.
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
After cooking, squeeze fresh lime juice over the skillet and toss gently. Garnish with chopped cilantro for an aromatic finish.
Serve hot with a generous dollop of yogurt on each plate. Feel free to drizzle more lime juice for added zing.

Pro Pointers for Best Results

Cooking Time: Ensure chicken pieces are cut evenly for uniform cooking. Adjust cooking times if your diced sweet potatoes are larger or smaller.
Extra Zest: For a more intense lime flavor, consider adding lime zest along with the juice for an aromatic boost.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to enhance the dish’s nutrition and vibrancy.
Make It Spicy: If you prefer a kick, add some diced jalapeño or sprinkle red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat.

Discover Recipe Variations

Vegan Delight: Substitute the chicken with a can of drained chickpeas or cubed tofu for a plant-based twist that’s still full of flavor.
Mild Taste: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, reduce or eliminate the chili powder and opt for mild spices to enjoy a subtle sweetness from the potatoes.
Spicy Option: Amp up the heat by incorporating cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for those who crave a fiery dish.
Regional Flavors: Try adding in local ingredients from your region, like chorizo for a Latin flair or combination of spices that resonate with your culinary roots.

Perfect Pairings to Complement This Dish

Refreshing Drink: A chilled glass of agua fresca or a classic margarita pairs beautifully for a festive twist.
Delicious Sides: Serve with a fresh green salad or cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal that encourages vibrant flavors.
Satisfying Dessert: Try ending your meal with a fresh fruit sorbet or traditional flan for a sweet touch that balances the savory notes.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

Prep Ahead: Chop sweet potatoes and chicken in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This way, you’ll have everything ready to go when mealtime hits.
Storage Instructions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Ensure it cools down before sealing.
Freezing Tips: To freeze, portion the cooled skillet in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat Tips: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain moisture for an enjoyable texture.

Stylish Serving Ideas

Present your chili lime sweet potato and chicken skillet in a vibrant platter, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges for that enticing professional touch. A dollop of creamy yogurt on the side adds charm and comforts while harmonizing the dish’s flavors. Add some warm tortillas to the table for an inviting, communal feel.

Insider Kitchen Secrets

Spice Blend: Create your spice blend in advance and store it in an airtight container. This saves time and elevates your dishes consistently.
Cooking Technique: For sturdier sweet potatoes, parboil them for 5 minutes before adding them to the skillet for quicker cooking.
Zest Factor: Experiment with additional citrus, such as orange or grapefruit juice, to change the flavor profile subtly while maintaining its freshness.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also richness and additional flavor; sprinkle extra right before serving.

Safe Storage & Reheating Techniques

In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container; it can last for up to four days without losing flavor.
Reheat Gently: For the best texture, reheat on medium heat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist and delicious. Microwaving is fine too, but can alter the texture slightly.

Common Inquiries Answered

Can I use other types of potatoes? Absolutely! While sweet potatoes lend a unique sweetness, you can interchange regular potatoes or even butternut squash.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I reduce cooking time? Cutting your chicken and sweet potatoes smaller can significantly decrease the overall cooking time.
Can I add beans to the recipe? Yes, black beans or pinto beans would complement this dish beautifully, adding extra protein and fiber.
What if I don’t have lime? Lemon juice is a wonderful alternative, providing a similar acidity and brightness.
How spicy is this dish? The spiciness primarily comes from the chili powder. Adjust this based on your preference for a milder or hotter experience.

Nutrition Info

Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish
Calories: 380
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 7g
Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.

Warm Reflection

This chili lime sweet potato and chicken skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a tapestry of my vibrant heritage infused with love and tradition. Every bite conjures memories of laughter-filled kitchens, the aroma of spices dancing in the air, and stories shared over a hearty table. As you gather around with friends and family, I hope this recipe inspires joy, creativity, and togetherness.

One Last Bite of Advice

Let your own kitchen be a canvas for flavor and heart! Cooking this chili lime sweet potato and chicken skillet is not just about feeding the body but nourishing the spirit. Create it, savor it, and share it with those you love—don’t forget to pin for later! Enjoy this joyous culinary journey as much as I do!

Chili Lime Sweet Potato and Chicken Skillet

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: emma
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Description

A vibrant one-pan dish featuring tender sweet potatoes and juicy chicken, flavored with chili powder and fresh lime.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Chopped cilantro for garnish
Yogurt for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
Add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until browned.
Introduce the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet, along with chili powder and cumin, stirring to coat.
Cover and reduce heat to medium-low, cooking for 15-20 minutes until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the skillet and toss gently. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Serve hot with a dollop of yogurt and extra lime juice if desired.

Notes

Make sure chicken and sweet potatoes are cut evenly for uniform cooking. Feel free to add extra veggies or adjust spices to taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet Cooking
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 380
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg