Description
This vibrant and nutritious bowl combines the smoky flavors of grilled chicken with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, all topped with a zesty avocado salsa and a creamy avocado sauce. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Avocado Salsa:
- 1 avocado, diced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ red onion, finely chopped
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of ½ lime
Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove
- Juice of ½ lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Roast Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato wedges with ½ tbsp olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Step 2: Grill Chicken:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the chicken. In a bowl, season the sliced chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the remaining ½ tbsp olive oil. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings. Grill the chicken over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, you can pan-sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Make Avocado Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, chopped fresh cilantro, and lime juice. Gently mix all the ingredients until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 4: Prepare Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, garlic clove, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add a little water if needed to reach the desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Assemble Bowl:
Once the sweet potatoes and chicken are cooked, it’s time to assemble the bowls. In a bowl, arrange a generous portion of roasted sweet potatoes and grilled chicken slices. Top with a scoop of the fresh avocado salsa and a dollop of the creamy avocado sauce. Garnish with extra fresh herbs, if desired.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The sweet potatoes provide a good source of fiber and vitamins, while the chicken offers lean protein. The avocado salsa and sauce contribute healthy fats and essential vitamins. It’s a balanced and satisfying meal that you can feel good about eating. Plus, it is easily customizable to your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Serving Suggestions:
This bowl can be served as a complete meal for lunch or dinner. You can also add other toppings to customize it, such as:
- Black beans
- Corn
- Shredded lettuce
- A sprinkle of cotija cheese
Tips:
- For an even quicker meal, you can use pre-cooked chicken or canned sweet potatoes.
- To meal prep this recipe, store the roasted sweet potatoes, grilled chicken, avocado salsa, and avocado sauce separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls just before serving.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Adjust the amount of lime juice and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with grilled halloumi or tofu.
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: The following values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 250mg
Conclusion
The Grilled Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowl with Avocado Sauce is a delightful and wholesome meal that is easy to make and packed with flavor. Its combination of savory, sweet, and creamy elements makes it a satisfying choice for any day of the week. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious lunch or a quick dinner option, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and variations to make it your own!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! You can easily replace the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese, tofu, or black beans for a vegetarian option. These alternatives provide a good source of protein and complement the other flavors in the bowl.
Q2: How long can I store the avocado salsa and sauce?
A: The avocado salsa and sauce are best when freshly made, but you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salsa and sauce.
Q3: Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
A: Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes for sweet potatoes if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the flavor and nutritional profile will be different. Sweet potatoes offer more vitamins and a natural sweetness that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Q4: Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
A: Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Simply store the roasted sweet potatoes, grilled chicken, avocado salsa, and avocado sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Q5: Can I add any other vegetables to this bowl?
A: Of course! Feel free to add other vegetables to this bowl to customize it to your liking. Some great additions include roasted bell peppers, grilled corn, black beans, or sautéed spinach.
