Chicken & Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

Chicken & Sweet Potato Buddha Bowls are vibrant, nourishing meals that bring together a colorful array of ingredients in one hearty dish. Packed with lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and a variety of vitamins, this bowl is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. Whether you’re looking to fuel up after a workout or serve up something wholesome for your family, this Buddha bowl is a delightful choice that will surely satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not only is this dish a feast for the eyes, but it’s also a game-changer for busy weeknights. With its wholesome ingredients and customizable nature, you can easily make it fit your taste and dietary preferences. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to eat healthy without breaking the bank. The combination of flavors from roasted sweet potatoes, savory chicken, and fresh veggies creates a cozy meal that’s incredibly satisfying.

"This Buddha bowl has become my go-to weeknight dinner! It’s easy to prepare and tastes delicious—my family loves it!"

How to Make Chicken & Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

Crafting this delectable meal is a straightforward process that centers around roasting and assembling. You’ll begin by prepping your vegetables, cooking the chicken, and then layering everything into a comforting bowl. Ready to dive in? Gather your ingredients, and let’s create something delicious!

Ingredients

Chicken Breast: (1.5 lbs) Provides lean protein, essential for satiety and muscle building. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation.
Sweet Potatoes: (2 large) Offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, along with fiber, vitamins, and a naturally sweet flavor that complements the savory chicken.
Quinoa: (1 cup uncooked) A complete protein and a great source of fiber, quinoa adds a nutty flavor and satisfying base to the bowl. You can substitute with brown rice or farro if preferred.
Broccoli Florets: (1 head) Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, broccoli adds a vibrant green color and a slightly bitter, yet refreshing crunch.
Red Onion: (1 medium) Adds a pungent bite and beautiful color. Red onions are also rich in antioxidants.
Avocado: (1-2 ripe) Provides healthy fats, creamy texture, and a boost of flavor. Avocado is also a good source of potassium and vitamin K.
Cherry Tomatoes: (1 pint) Offer a burst of sweetness and acidity, along with vitamins and antioxidants.
Spinach or Baby Greens: (5 oz container) Adds a bed of leafy greens for extra nutrients and freshness. Spinach is rich in iron and vitamins.
Olive Oil: (3-4 tablespoons) Used for roasting vegetables and chicken. Olive oil is a healthy fat source and enhances flavor.
Lemon Juice: (2-3 tablespoons) Brightens the flavors and adds acidity to the dressing. Freshly squeezed is always best!
Dijon Mustard: (1 tablespoon) Adds a tangy depth of flavor to the dressing.
Maple Syrup or Honey: (1 teaspoon) A touch of sweetness to balance the dressing.
Garlic Powder: (1 teaspoon) Adds savory flavor to the chicken and vegetables.
Paprika: (1 teaspoon) Adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the chicken and vegetables.
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Optional Toppings: Sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, red pepper flakes, your favorite hot sauce for extra flavor and texture.

Substitution Tips: If you’re out of quinoa, brown rice or farro makes a great swap. You can also swap out chicken for chickpeas or grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.

Directions

Creating this Chicken & Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl is surprisingly simple. Just follow these easy steps to whip up your own delicious and nutritious meal:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes and Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Cut the broccoli into florets.
2. Roast the Vegetables: Toss the sweet potatoes and broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.
3. Cook the Chicken: While the veggies are roasting, season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can grill, bake, or pan-sear them until cooked through and golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side.

While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the chicken. You can cook the chicken in several ways—grilling, baking, or sautéing, depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Buddha bowl is where your creativity can truly shine! Add a handful of fresh baby greens as the base, then layer the roasted sweet potatoes, broccoli, cooked chicken, and any toppings you desire. A drizzle of lemon juice or your favorite sauce can add extra zest. You can even serve it alongside a light salad or warm pita bread for a more substantial meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked quinoa and chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, ensuring that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Pro Tips

• Batch Cooking: Make extra quinoa and chicken to save time for future meals.
• Flavor Boosters: Experiment with herbs and spices—fresh cilantro, mint, or hot sauce can elevate your bowl to new heights!
• Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep; simply portion out ingredients in containers at the start of the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Variations

Feel free to customize this Buddha bowl to match your cravings! Swap out the vegetables for seasonal favorites like asparagus or bell peppers. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or toss in some fresh hot sauce. You can also play around with different dressings, such as tahini or yogurt-based dressings, to keep things exciting.

FAQs

Can I use cooked chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken, simply shred or chop it up and toss it in.

What if I’m allergic to nuts?
No problem. Simply omit any nuts in the optional toppings, and focus on the seeds or herbs for added crunch.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Easily convert it by swapping the chicken for roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu. Both options offer great protein while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.

• Meal Prep Ideas
• Grilled Chicken Recipes