BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Simple Recipe

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If you’re looking for a delicious meal that’s easy to make, you’ll love BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes. This dish brings together tender chicken and sweet potatoes in a quick and tasty way. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that impresses. I’ll guide you through each step and offer tips to make it truly yours. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Healthy Comfort Food: These BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a wholesome choice for any meal.
  2. Customizable Filling: The filling can easily be adjusted based on your preferences. Add more veggies or switch up the protein for a unique twist!
  3. Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
  4. Great for Leftovers: These stuffed sweet potatoes reheat beautifully, making them an ideal option for lunches or quick dinners.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes, gather these items:

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Recommended BBQ Sauce Options

The BBQ sauce you choose can change the flavor of this dish. Here are some tasty options:

  • Sweet and tangy sauces work well for a classic taste.
  • Spicy BBQ sauces add a kick to your meal.
  • Try a smoky sauce for extra depth.
  • Look for homemade sauces for a personal touch.

Suggested Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out some ingredients to fit your taste or needs:

  • Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein.
  • Swap black beans for pinto or chickpeas if you prefer.
  • If you don’t have corn, use diced bell peppers for crunch.
  • For a dairy-free option, skip the cheese or use a vegan substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat is perfect for cooking sweet potatoes. Next, wash the sweet potatoes well. Use a fork to pierce them a few times. This step helps steam escape while they cook. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 45 to 60 minutes. They should be soft when done. You can check by poking them with a fork.

Preparing the BBQ Chicken Filling

While the sweet potatoes bake, let’s make the filling. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken and 1 cup of BBQ sauce. You can choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this step. Add 1/2 cup of corn and 1/2 cup of black beans. Rinse and drain the black beans before adding them. Next, chop 1/2 red onion and add it to the mix. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it is well combined.

Stuffing and Baking the Sweet Potatoes

After the sweet potatoes are cooked, take them out of the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully cut each sweet potato in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out some flesh, making room for the filling. Mix this scooped-out sweet potato with the BBQ chicken mixture. Stir well to combine. Now, spoon the BBQ chicken filling back into each sweet potato half. Top each half with shredded cheese. Place the stuffed sweet potatoes back in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Bake until the cheese melts and bubbles. Finally, remove them from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve them warm and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Baking Sweet Potatoes

Baking sweet potatoes can be simple. Here are my best tips:

  • Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes. They cook evenly and fill well.
  • Wash each sweet potato under running water. Scrub off dirt with your hands.
  • Pierce them with a fork to let steam escape. This prevents bursting.
  • Bake at 400°F for 45-60 minutes. Check if they are soft with a fork.
  • Let them cool for a few minutes before cutting. This helps avoid burns.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavor in your BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes, try these ideas:

  • Mix in different spices like chili powder for heat. It adds a nice kick!
  • Use smoked BBQ sauce for a deeper flavor. This gives it a rich taste.
  • Add fresh herbs, like thyme or parsley, for brightness. They make the dish pop!
  • Top with crunchy toppings like fried onions or crushed chips for texture.
  • A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty finish. It brightens all the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serving BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes can be fun and tasty. Here are ways to enjoy them:

  • Serve with a side salad for freshness. It creates a nice balance.
  • Pair with coleslaw for crunch and creaminess. This adds a great contrast.
  • Offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. It’s great for sauce lovers.
  • Use them as a filling main dish for lunch or dinner. They are hearty!
  • Top with avocado slices for added creaminess. It makes every bite delicious.

Pro Tips

  1. Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
  2. Enhance the BBQ Flavor: Marinate the shredded chicken in the BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes before mixing to deepen the flavors.
  3. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy twist on the classic.
  4. Garnishing Tips: Add a squeeze of lime juice over the stuffed sweet potatoes before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

Variations

Vegetarian Options

You can make this dish vegetarian by swapping chicken for a plant-based protein. Try using shredded jackfruit or chickpeas. Both options absorb flavors well. Mix them with your favorite BBQ sauce and the other ingredients. You get the same great taste without meat.

Different Meat Choices

Feel free to get creative with meats! You can use pulled pork or shredded beef instead of chicken. Just make sure to keep the BBQ sauce you love. Each meat brings its own flavor, making the dish unique.

Alternative Toppings

Toppings can change the whole meal! You can add avocado for creaminess, or diced tomatoes for freshness. Try sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy touch. If you like heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce. Fresh herbs like parsley or green onions can add color and flavor too!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to cover them well to keep moisture out. If you have extra filling, store it separately.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you have a few options. The oven works best. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot. You can also use a microwave. Just heat each half for 1-2 minutes. Check that it’s hot all the way through.

Freezing Tips

If you want to freeze these stuffed sweet potatoes, do this carefully. Wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then reheat as mentioned above.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken for this recipe?

No, you should not use raw chicken. This dish needs cooked chicken. If you use raw chicken, it will not cook through in the sweet potatoes. Cook your chicken first, then shred it. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease, or cook and shred your own.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce. Many brands offer gluten-free options. Always check labels to be sure. Sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this dish worry-free.

What sides pair well with BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes?

Great sides for BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes include:

  • Coleslaw
  • Grilled corn
  • Mixed green salad
  • Roasted veggies

These sides add freshness and balance to the meal.

This blog post covered how to make BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes. We looked at ingredients, steps to prep, and best baking tips. I shared ways to mix things up, including vegetarian options and alternative toppings. I also gave storage tips to keep leftovers fresh.

Enjoy these tasty sweet potatoes for lunch or dinner. They are easy to make and full of flavor. You can make them your own with fun mix-ins. A delicious meal like this will surely impress your family and friend

To make BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes, gather these items: - 4 medium sweet potatoes - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice) - 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) - 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained - 1/2 red onion, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend) - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) The BBQ sauce you choose can change the flavor of this dish. Here are some tasty options: - Sweet and tangy sauces work well for a classic taste. - Spicy BBQ sauces add a kick to your meal. - Try a smoky sauce for extra depth. - Look for homemade sauces for a personal touch. You can swap out some ingredients to fit your taste or needs: - Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein. - Swap black beans for pinto or chickpeas if you prefer. - If you don’t have corn, use diced bell peppers for crunch. - For a dairy-free option, skip the cheese or use a vegan substitute. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat is perfect for cooking sweet potatoes. Next, wash the sweet potatoes well. Use a fork to pierce them a few times. This step helps steam escape while they cook. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 45 to 60 minutes. They should be soft when done. You can check by poking them with a fork. While the sweet potatoes bake, let’s make the filling. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken and 1 cup of BBQ sauce. You can choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this step. Add 1/2 cup of corn and 1/2 cup of black beans. Rinse and drain the black beans before adding them. Next, chop 1/2 red onion and add it to the mix. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it is well combined. After the sweet potatoes are cooked, take them out of the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully cut each sweet potato in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out some flesh, making room for the filling. Mix this scooped-out sweet potato with the BBQ chicken mixture. Stir well to combine. Now, spoon the BBQ chicken filling back into each sweet potato half. Top each half with shredded cheese. Place the stuffed sweet potatoes back in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Bake until the cheese melts and bubbles. Finally, remove them from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve them warm and enjoy! Baking sweet potatoes can be simple. Here are my best tips: - Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes. They cook evenly and fill well. - Wash each sweet potato under running water. Scrub off dirt with your hands. - Pierce them with a fork to let steam escape. This prevents bursting. - Bake at 400°F for 45-60 minutes. Check if they are soft with a fork. - Let them cool for a few minutes before cutting. This helps avoid burns. To boost flavor in your BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes, try these ideas: - Mix in different spices like chili powder for heat. It adds a nice kick! - Use smoked BBQ sauce for a deeper flavor. This gives it a rich taste. - Add fresh herbs, like thyme or parsley, for brightness. They make the dish pop! - Top with crunchy toppings like fried onions or crushed chips for texture. - A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty finish. It brightens all the flavors. Serving BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes can be fun and tasty. Here are ways to enjoy them: - Serve with a side salad for freshness. It creates a nice balance. - Pair with coleslaw for crunch and creaminess. This adds a great contrast. - Offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. It’s great for sauce lovers. - Use them as a filling main dish for lunch or dinner. They are hearty! - Top with avocado slices for added creaminess. It makes every bite delicious. Pro Tips Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes for the best texture and flavor. Enhance the BBQ Flavor: Marinate the shredded chicken in the BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes before mixing to deepen the flavors. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy twist on the classic. Garnishing Tips: Add a squeeze of lime juice over the stuffed sweet potatoes before serving for an extra burst of freshness. {{image_2}} You can make this dish vegetarian by swapping chicken for a plant-based protein. Try using shredded jackfruit or chickpeas. Both options absorb flavors well. Mix them with your favorite BBQ sauce and the other ingredients. You get the same great taste without meat. Feel free to get creative with meats! You can use pulled pork or shredded beef instead of chicken. Just make sure to keep the BBQ sauce you love. Each meat brings its own flavor, making the dish unique. Toppings can change the whole meal! You can add avocado for creaminess, or diced tomatoes for freshness. Try sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy touch. If you like heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce. Fresh herbs like parsley or green onions can add color and flavor too! To keep your BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to cover them well to keep moisture out. If you have extra filling, store it separately. To reheat, you have a few options. The oven works best. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot. You can also use a microwave. Just heat each half for 1-2 minutes. Check that it’s hot all the way through. If you want to freeze these stuffed sweet potatoes, do this carefully. Wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then reheat as mentioned above. No, you should not use raw chicken. This dish needs cooked chicken. If you use raw chicken, it will not cook through in the sweet potatoes. Cook your chicken first, then shred it. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease, or cook and shred your own. To make this dish gluten-free, choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce. Many brands offer gluten-free options. Always check labels to be sure. Sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this dish worry-free. Great sides for BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes include: - Coleslaw - Grilled corn - Mixed green salad - Roasted veggies These sides add freshness and balance to the meal. This blog post covered how to make BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes. We looked at ingredients, steps to prep, and best baking tips. I shared ways to mix things up, including vegetarian options and alternative toppings. I also gave storage tips to keep leftovers fresh. Enjoy these tasty sweet potatoes for lunch or dinner. They are easy to make and full of flavor. You can make them your own with fun mix-ins. A delicious meal like this will surely impress your family and friends.

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Delicious sweet potatoes filled with BBQ chicken, corn, and cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 0.5 cup corn kernels
  • 0.5 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 0.5 red onion finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • for garnish fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and pierce them multiple times with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, until tender.
  • While the sweet potatoes are baking, combine the shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, corn, black beans, red onion, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until well combined.
  • Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Carefully cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out a bit of the flesh, creating space for the filling.
  • Mix the scooped-out sweet potato flesh with the BBQ chicken mixture and stir to combine.
  • Spoon the BBQ chicken filling generously back into each sweet potato half. Top each half with shredded cheese.
  • Place the stuffed sweet potatoes back in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve hot.

Notes

Feel free to customize the toppings and BBQ sauce to your liking.
Keyword BBQ, chicken, stuffed, sweet potatoes

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