BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

 BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a hearty and healthy meal that combines tender, flavorful BBQ chicken with the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes. This dish is easy to make, customizable, and packed with nutrients.

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Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)

For the Sweet Potatoes:

4 medium sweet potatoes

Olive oil, for rubbing

Salt and pepper, to taste

For Topping:

1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Extra BBQ sauce, for drizzling

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes. Pat them dry, then rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

3. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and pierce them a few times with a fork.

4. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. (Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes.)

2. Cook the Chicken:

1. While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.

5. Shred the chicken using two forks and toss it in BBQ sauce until evenly coated.

3. Assemble the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes:

1. Once the sweet potatoes are done baking, cut them lengthwise to create an opening in the middle.

2. Gently fluff the insides with a fork to make space for the filling.

3. Spoon the shredded BBQ chicken into each sweet potato, dividing it evenly among the potatoes.

4. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and place the stuffed sweet potatoes back in the oven for about 5-7 minutes to melt the cheese.

4. Serve:

1. Once the cheese is melted (if using), remove the potatoes from the oven.

2. Top with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.

3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Tips:

You can customize this dish by adding toppings like sour cream, avocado, or even coleslaw for a crunchier texture.

For a faster option, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.

To make this dish even healthier, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a perfect combination of smoky BBQ flavor and the natural sweetness of the sweet potato. This dish is satisfying, full of protein and fiber, and can be easily adapted to your taste preferences!