This Mexican Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Black Bean Skillet is a one-pan meal that is both hearty and nutritious. Loaded with bold flavors, tender chicken, and nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, this dish is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made in one skillet for easy cleanup
- Packed with protein and fiber
- Perfectly spiced with classic Mexican flavors
- Ready in under an hour
- Easily customizable with different toppings
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast
- Sweet potatoes
- Black beans
- Onion
- Garlic
- Bell peppers
- Diced tomatoes
- Chicken broth
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Lime juice
- Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
- Shredded cheese (optional)
- Avocado (optional for topping)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook until browned, then remove from the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened.
- Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Stir in black beans and return the chicken to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish and garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or your favorite toppings.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for extra black beans or tofu.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace sweet potatoes with cauliflower or zucchini.
- Cheesy Delight: Melt shredded cheese on top before serving.
- Taco Style: Use this mixture as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Fresh sweet potatoes work best, but canned can be used in a pinch—just reduce cooking time.
What other beans can I use?
Pinto beans or kidney beans make great substitutes for black beans.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a simple side salad.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Absolutely! Store in meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
How do I keep the sweet potatoes from getting mushy?
Be sure not to overcook them; they should be fork-tender but still hold their shape.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Simply shred the cooked rotisserie chicken and stir it in towards the end of cooking.
What if I don’t have fresh lime juice?
Bottled lime juice works fine, but fresh lime juice gives the best flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check labels for any hidden gluten.
Conclusion
This Mexican Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Black Bean Skillet is a flavorful, wholesome meal that’s easy to make and packed with nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a favorite!
PrintMexican Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Black Bean Skillet
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Mexican Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Black Bean Skillet is an easy, one-pan meal bursting with Southwest flavors. Tender chicken, sweet potatoes, black beans, and warm spices come together for a healthy, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight! Serve it with rice, tortillas, or enjoy it as is for a low-carb option.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is browned and mostly cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer the Skillet:
- Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Finish the Dish:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in the corn. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and cover the skillet for a minute to let it melt.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish and garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve as is, or with rice, tortillas, or avocado slices for extra flavor!
Notes
- Swap chicken for ground turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
- Make it spicier by adding jalapeños or extra chili powder
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