Name: Satisfy Your Cravings: Easy Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Shredded Chicken (Use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts.); 1 cup Barbecue Sauce (Adjust quantity to taste; any variety works.); 16 oz Sweet Potatoes (Yams) (Can be cubed fresh or bought pre-cut.); 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Substitute with melted butter if preferred.); 2 tbsp Honey (Optional, can be omitted if desired.); 1 tsp Cumin (Adjust according to preference.); 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (Adjust according to preference.); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Adjust according to preference.); to taste Salt and Pepper (Essential seasonings for overall flavor enhancement.); 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella recommended) (Can substitute with cheddar or any melting cheese.); optional Bacon (Adds a smoky, savory element. Fry until crispy and mix with chicken.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the days grow cooler and the evenings stretch longer, nothing feels quite as comforting as a warm Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole fresh out of the oven. The first whiff of the sweet potatoes caramelizing, mingled with the smoky undertones of barbecue sauce, is enough to wrap you in a cozy hug. In just 40 minutes, you can create a dish that doesn’t just fill your belly but also brings a smile to your face—a wonderful remedy for the weeknight blahs.

Imagine inviting friends over for dinner or enjoying a cozy night in with family, and presenting them with this mouthwatering casserole. The vibrant hues of orange from the sweet potatoes and the melting cheese create a feast for the eyes, while each bite showcases a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. It’s an easy, versatile meal that fits every occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a leisurely Sunday gathering. Trust me; this recipe is destined to become a staple in your home, bringing joy and comfort every time you serve it up.

Why will you love Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole?

Comforting, this casserole marries sweet potatoes and savory chicken for a hearty dish that warms the soul. Quick to prepare, it comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Versatile and adaptable, you can tweak ingredients based on what you have on hand or try variations like using butternut squash. Visually appealing, the vibrant colors make it a showstopper at gatherings. Family-friendly, even picky eaters will be delighted by its delicious flavors and satisfying texture. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful dish!

Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole
• Shredded Chicken – Primary protein; provides heartiness to the dish. Use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts (2 lbs).
• Barbecue Sauce – Adds sweetness and tang; enhances the flavor profile. Adjust quantity to taste; any variety works.
• Sweet Potatoes (Yams) – Key ingredient for sweetness; provides texture. Can be cubed fresh or bought pre-cut (16 oz).
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – For coating sweet potatoes; adds moisture. Substitute with melted butter if preferred.
• Honey – Balances flavor with added sweetness. Optional, can be omitted if desired.
• Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder – Spices that enhance the overall taste. Adjust according to preference.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings for overall flavor enhancement. Season to taste.
• Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella recommended) – Adds creaminess and a delicious melted top. Can substitute with cheddar or any melting cheese.
• Bacon (optional) – Adds a smoky, savory element. Fry until crispy and mix with chicken if desired.

How to Make Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole

Preheat the oven to 425ºF (220ºC), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for baking. This will ensure your casserole gets that golden, crispy top you desire.
Combine ingredients in a baking dish (11″x7″). Toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, honey, salt, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until they are evenly coated and glistening.
Cover and bake the dish with aluminum foil for approximately 18 minutes. This helps the sweet potatoes steam, resulting in a tender texture.
Broil for crunch by removing the foil and broiling the sweet potatoes for an additional 5 minutes. Watch closely for a lovely golden color—a sign they’re ready!
Mix chicken and sauce in a separate bowl while the potatoes bake. Combine shredded chicken with your preferred barbecue sauce, making sure it’s well-coated for that extra flavor.
Fry bacon (if using) until crispy in a skillet, then chop it into bits and mix with the chicken for an added smoky touch that elevates your casserole.
Layer the casserole by placing the chicken mixture over the sweet potatoes. Top it all off by sprinkling shredded cheese evenly, creating a melty, creamy layer to satisfy your cheesy cravings.
Bake again by reducing the oven temperature to 350ºF (180ºC). Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is deliciously melted and bubbly, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For faster preparation, opt for pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. This saves time and enhances flavor.
Cover Properly: Ensure that the foil securely covers the sweet potatoes while baking. This prevents them from drying out and guarantees a tender texture.
Monitor Broiling: Keep a close eye on the casserole while broiling; broilers can be tricky, and you don’t want the cheese to burn.
Season Generously: Taste and adjust seasonings, especially salt and pepper, before layering the chicken. This enhances the overall flavor of the Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole.
Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to try variations, such as butternut squash instead of sweet potatoes or different cheeses for a unique twist in flavor.
Store Carefully: When storing leftovers, use airtight containers to retain flavor and moisture, keeping your casserole fresh for up to 3 days.

Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine with these fun adaptations; it’s a delicious way to make this dish your own!

Butternut Squash: Swap sweet potatoes for cubed butternut squash to introduce a nuttier flavor.
BBQ Chicken: Try using barbecue-flavored shredded chicken for an extra layer of tangy goodness throughout the casserole.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a delightful kick that’ll excite your taste buds.
Vegetarian Option: Replace shredded chicken with black beans or chickpeas for a hearty, meatless alternative that bursts with protein.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sweet potato mixture for an aromatic twist that brings freshness to each bite.
Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle panko bread crumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking for a crunchy texture contrast.
Sweet and Savory: For a creative twist, fold in some chopped apples or pears along with the sweet potatoes to add a touch of sweetness.
Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of cheese for a creamy base while slashing extra calories, keeping the dish satisfying and lighter.

What to Serve with Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole?

Enjoying a warm, comforting casserole is just the beginning of your delightful dining experience. Let’s bring additional flavors and textures to your table!

Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette add brightness and balance against the hearty casserole.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy casserole and provides a satisfying crunch.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges and subtle bitterness of Brussels sprouts elevate the sweetness of the sweet potatoes, creating a harmonious dish.
Steamed Green Beans: Bright, tender green beans bring a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the overall meal with a lovely crunch.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread muffins make for a perfect pairing, soaking up the delicious sauce from the casserole.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tangy cranberry sauce beside your casserole adds a delightful contrast, amplifying flavors with its seasonal essence.
Apple Cider: For a comforting drink, serve warm apple cider to complement the sweet notes in the casserole, creating a cozy dining atmosphere.
Chocolate Cake: End the meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate cake, ensuring your dinner experience lingers deliciously long after the last bite of casserole.

These pairings not only enhance the Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole but also bring a delightful, rounded experience to your dinner table, perfect for sharing with loved ones!

Storage Tips for Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole fresh and ready to enjoy later.
Freezer: If you want to save it longer, freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Warm it in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) until heated through, or microwave individual portions as needed.
Avoiding Dryness: If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to retain moisture during the process, ensuring it stays deliciously creamy.

Make Ahead Options

This Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole is perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the sweet potatoes and mix them with the oil, honey, and spices up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them tightly and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce one day ahead. When you’re ready to enjoy, layer the chicken over the sweet potatoes and sprinkle with cheese before baking. Just remember to let the casserole come to room temperature before popping it in the oven, so it cooks evenly and remains just as delicious as when it was freshly made!

Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet potatoes should I use in my casserole?
Absolutely! You can use either orange-fleshed sweet potatoes or yams for this casserole. Both varieties lend a wonderful sweetness; however, if you’re seeking a slightly different flavor profile, consider using butternut squash as a substitute. It adds a unique taste and pairs well with the barbecue sauce.

How should I store leftover Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, as the longer it stays in the freezer, the more potential there is for drying out.

Can I freeze Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole?
Certainly! Freezing this casserole is a great way to meal prep or save it for later. To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This protects it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; when you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What if my sweet potatoes are tough after baking?
If you find your sweet potatoes haven’t cooked through as expected, it might be due to larger chunks or not enough baking time. I recommend cubing them into smaller pieces—about 1-inch cubes—for a tender texture. If necessary, cover and bake them a bit longer to ensure they become soft. Additionally, ensure your oven is fully preheated!

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This recipe includes common allergens such as dairy (from cheese) and potential gluten (in some barbecue sauces). For those with allergies, try using dairy-free cheese, and read labels to choose gluten-free barbecue sauce. Always be cautious and substitute ingredients as needed to accommodate your dietary requirements.