Looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy weeknight dinner? This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potatoes recipe is a perfect solution. Combining juicy chicken breasts, tender roasted sweet potatoes, and a sweet-and-spicy honey BBQ sauce, it’s a balanced, one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Minimal cleanup, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients make this dish a go-to for busy families or anyone craving a delicious, home-cooked dinner without the fuss.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because the chicken and sweet potatoes roast together in one pan, allowing the flavors to meld while keeping the chicken moist and the sweet potatoes caramelized. The honey BBQ sauce adds sweetness and tang, while optional crushed red pepper flakes bring a subtle kick. Using olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and simple seasonings enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. This one-pan method is perfect for a balanced, wholesome meal without extra dishes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sweet Potatoes
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Honey BBQ Sauce
1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Method
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken and Sweet Potatoes
Place the chicken breasts on one side of the baking sheet. In a large bowl, toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Spread the sweet potatoes on the other side of the baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Roast Chicken and Sweet Potatoes
Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Prepare Honey BBQ Sauce
While the chicken and sweet potatoes roast, combine honey BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl. Mix until smooth.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish Roasting
Remove the chicken and sweet potatoes from the oven and brush the chicken generously with the honey BBQ sauce. Return to the oven for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the sauce is slightly caramelized and sticky. Toss the sweet potatoes in a small amount of sauce if desired.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer the chicken and sweet potatoes to plates or a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy a delicious, hearty one-pan meal.
Tips for Perfect Honey BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potatoes
1️⃣ Even size: Cut sweet potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.
2️⃣ Use a meat thermometer: Check chicken’s internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
3️⃣ Glaze at the end: Applying the sauce toward the end prevents it from burning while roasting.
4️⃣ Single pan convenience: Roasting everything together saves time and minimizes cleanup.
5️⃣ Extra flavor: Marinate chicken in a portion of the sauce for 30 minutes before roasting for deeper flavor.
Variations and Enhancements
- Spicy Version: Increase crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
- Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the pan for extra nutrition.
- Maple Twist: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a slightly different sweet flavor.
- Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to enhance the BBQ flavor.
- Sheet Pan Meal: Serve with cooked quinoa, rice, or roasted broccoli for a full balanced dinner.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through. Leftover chicken can also be sliced for sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this honey BBQ chicken and sweet potato dish with a crisp green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. A drizzle of extra honey BBQ sauce on top adds an extra flavor punch.
Expert Advice for Maximum Flavor
Roasting chicken and sweet potatoes together allows the sweet potatoes to absorb subtle chicken juices, enhancing their natural sweetness. Brushing the sauce on at the end creates a caramelized glaze that’s sticky, flavorful, and visually appealing. Fresh parsley adds color and brightness, balancing the richness of the honey BBQ glaze.
Print
One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potatoes recipe is a simple, flavorful dinner featuring tender chicken breasts and sweet potatoes coated in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup honey BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
- Brush chicken breasts with remaining olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place on the same sheet with sweet potatoes.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender.
- In a small bowl, mix honey BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Brush the sauce over chicken and sweet potatoes and bake for another 5–7 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce for different flavor profiles.
- Adjust the sweetness or heat by adding more honey or red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use bone-in chicken? Yes, but increase roasting time by 10–15 minutes and check internal temperature carefully.
2. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, prepare the chicken and sweet potatoes and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before roasting.
3. Is this recipe spicy? Mild by default; adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
4. Can I use frozen sweet potatoes? Fresh is preferred, but frozen sweet potatoes can be used; adjust roasting time accordingly.
5. Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
6. How do I prevent chicken from drying out? Do not overcook and brush with sauce toward the end for added moisture.
7. Can I add more vegetables? Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots roast well with sweet potatoes.
8. Can I make it in one pan? Absolutely — using a single baking sheet makes cleanup easy.
9. How long does it bake? About 25–30 minutes total, plus 5–7 minutes after glazing.
10. Can I double the recipe? Yes, use a larger baking sheet and ensure ingredients are spread evenly for even roasting.
This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potatoes recipe is a simple, flavorful, and wholesome dinner option. Sweet, savory, and slightly smoky, it’s a meal that satisfies the whole family with minimal effort and maximum taste.