There is something truly delightful about savoring tender, juicy chicken paired with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, all layered onto a colorful skewer. The Chicken and Sweet Potato Kebabs Recipe is one of those dishes that bring vibrant flavors and a satisfying texture together into an easy, approachable meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or planning a weekend cookout, these kebabs are both a feast for the eyes and the palate, combining wholesome ingredients with a smoky, citrusy marinade that turns every bite into a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of fresh, quality ingredients that contribute incredible flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s the sweet potatoes adding a caramelized earthiness or the smoked paprika lending a hint of smoky depth.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes, these provide tender, lean protein that soaks up the marinade perfectly.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes: Peeled and cubed, they add a lovely natural sweetness and vibrant orange color that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 red bell pepper: Offers crunch and a pop of bright color, balancing the dish’s textures.
- 1 red onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and sharpness that caramelizes nicely when grilled or roasted.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps keep all ingredients moist and tender during cooking.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a fresh, zesty brightness that makes the flavors pop.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Lends aromatic warmth and depth to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried): Introduces a lovely herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky flavor that elevates the dish beyond ordinary grilled kebabs.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- Wooden or metal skewers: For assembling and grilling your kebabs efficiently.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds color and a fresh finish to the dish when served.
- Lemon wedges (for serving): Provide an extra citrus kick for anyone who wants a bit more brightness.
How to Make Chicken and Sweet Potato Kebabs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Cooking Surface
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to roast, or heat your grill to medium-high if you prefer that smoky outdoor flavor. This ensures an even cooking temperature so your chicken and vegetables cook perfectly without drying out.
Step 2: Parboil the Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes can take longer to cook through, so boil them for 5 to 6 minutes until they are just tender but still firm. This step guarantees that after grilling or roasting with other ingredients, everything will finish at the same time, allowing each skewer to be perfectly balanced.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss until well coated. Giving the chicken at least 15 minutes to soak in these bold, aromatic flavors enhances juiciness and tenderness. If you have a little more time, letting it marinate longer will only deepen that flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Kebabs
Thread the marinated chicken, parboiled sweet potato cubes, red bell pepper squares, and red onion pieces alternately onto your skewers. This colorful pattern not only looks inviting but ensures a balanced bite of protein, sweetness, and crunch every time.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
If grilling, place the kebabs over medium-high heat and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to get those gorgeous char marks and even cooking. If roasting, lay them on a baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Always check that the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the kebabs and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added fresh zing. These finishing touches elevate the dish from simple kebabs to a vibrant, crowd-pleasing meal.
How to Serve Chicken and Sweet Potato Kebabs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds eye-catching green but also a bright herbal freshness that complements the smoky and sweet flavors. Fresh lemon wedges on the side invite each person to squeeze just the right amount of citrusy brightness onto their kebab, enhancing every bite.
Side Dishes
The Chicken and Sweet Potato Kebabs Recipe pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides like a simple cucumber salad, herbed quinoa, or even a creamy tzatziki sauce for dipping. These sides bring balance and variety in texture, keeping the meal fresh and exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, serve these kebabs over a bed of fluffy couscous or alongside grilled pita bread. You can also de-skewer the chicken and veggies and toss them into a vibrant wrap or salad bowl for a casual yet delicious twist on plating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you do have leftovers from your Chicken and Sweet Potato Kebabs Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will remain fresh for up to 3 days. This makes a fantastic next-day lunch or quick dinner option.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked kebabs by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place frozen or refrigerated kebabs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, a quick turn on the grill or in a hot skillet will revitalize their smoky flavor without drying out the chicken or veggies.
FAQs
Can I use wooden skewers on the grill?
Yes! Just soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. This simple step helps keep your kebabs intact during cooking.
Is it necessary to parboil the sweet potatoes?
Parboiling sweet potatoes ensures they cook evenly alongside the chicken and other vegetables. Without it, you might end up with tough sweet potato cubes while the chicken is perfectly done.
Can I substitute chicken breasts with another protein?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs, pork, or even firm tofu work well with this marinade and sweet potato combination. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked safely.
How spicy is the Chicken and Sweet Potato Kebabs Recipe?
This recipe is mild and focuses on smoky and herby flavors with the smoked paprika. If you want some heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade.
What is the best way to tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest method is to use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Visually, the chicken should be opaque with clear juices.
Final Thoughts
Getting together to enjoy the Chicken and Sweet Potato Kebabs Recipe is like treating yourself to a little taste of sunshine and smoky goodness all at once. It’s an easy and vibrant dish that feels special yet is straightforward enough to prepare any time you’re craving something healthy and delicious. I promise, once you try these kebabs, they’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Chicken and Sweet Potato Kebabs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes (grilling) or 25 minutes (roasting)
- Total Time: 27 minutes (grilling) or 40 minutes (roasting)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious and colorful Chicken and Sweet Potato Kebabs featuring tender marinated chicken cubes, lightly boiled sweet potatoes, and vibrant bell peppers and onions. These kebabs are grilled or roasted to perfection, creating a flavorful and healthy meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or weekend cookout.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
Vegetables
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 red bell pepper (cut into 1-inch squares)
- 1 red onion (cut into 1-inch pieces)
Marinade and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Others
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven or grill: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it is hot and ready for cooking.
- Boil sweet potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in boiling water for 5-6 minutes to soften slightly, then drain and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh or dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will infuse the chicken with delicious flavors.
- Marinate chicken: Add the cubed chicken breasts into the marinade, making sure all pieces are coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the seasonings.
- Assemble the kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken, boiled sweet potato cubes, red bell pepper squares, and red onion pieces alternately onto wooden or metal skewers, creating colorful and balanced kebabs.
- Cook the kebabs: Place the kebabs on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through and has a nice char, or alternatively roast them in the oven for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove kebabs from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges for extra zest on the side.
Notes
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to threading to prevent burning.
- Boiling sweet potatoes slightly before grilling ensures they cook evenly on the skewers.
- Adjust marinating time for more intense flavor; longer marinating (up to 2 hours) is recommended.
- These kebabs can be cooked on an outdoor grill or in the oven, providing flexibility for cooking methods.
- Serve with a side salad or couscous for a complete meal.
