Name: Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken & Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs (boneless and skinless); 2 large sweet potatoes (peeled and diced); 3 tbsp olive oil; 0.5 cup buffalo sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 0.5 tsp paprika; salt and pepper (to taste); chopped green onions (for garnish)

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If you’re craving a dinner that combines bold flavors with effortless preparation, Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken & Sweet Potatoes is here to rescue your weeknight meal routine. This recipe brings together tender chicken thighs coated in spicy buffalo sauce and sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes, all roasted on a single pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Perfectly balanced with a touch of smoky paprika and aromatic garlic and onion powders, this dish is both satisfying and simple. Whether you’re after a quick family dinner or meal prep that keeps well, this sheet pan recipe delivers on taste, texture, and convenience.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

The magic of Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken & Sweet Potatoes lies in its simplicity and bold flavor. Here’s why it will become a staple in your kitchen:

One-pan convenience: Minimal dishes mean more time to relax and less time scrubbing.
Flavor-packed: The spicy buffalo sauce marries beautifully with the natural sweetness of the potatoes, creating a perfect harmony.
Versatile and adaptable: Great for dinner, lunches, or meal prep, and easy to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Balanced nutrition: Protein-rich chicken thighs and nutrient-dense sweet potatoes make for a wholesome meal that refuels your body.
Kid-friendly: Adjust the heat level to suit your family’s taste buds without sacrificing flavor.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this delicious Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken & Sweet Potatoes, these are the essentials you’ll want to have ready:

1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: Juicy, tender, and full of flavor, these are the star protein.
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced: Their natural sweetness complements the spicy buffalo sauce perfectly.
3 tbsp olive oil: Helps to roast the chicken and potatoes to crispy, golden perfection.
1/2 cup buffalo sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for that signature spicy tang.
1 tsp garlic powder: Adds subtle pungency and depth.
1 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory profile.
1/2 tsp paprika: Offers a smoky undertone that rounds out the spices.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all components together.
Chopped green onions for garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of color.

Before You Start: Equipment

Having the right tools ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable:

Large rimmed baking sheet or sheet pan: Big enough to spread out chicken and sweet potatoes evenly for roasting.
Mixing bowls: For tossing the sweet potatoes and coating the chicken.
Sharp knife and cutting board: To dice sweet potatoes and trim chicken if needed.
Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate seasoning and sauce measurements.
Spatula or tongs: To flip and handle the chicken and sweet potatoes without breaking them.

Make Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken & Sweet Potatoes: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line your sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Toss the Sweet Potatoes

In a large bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes with 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil, half of the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

In a separate bowl, drizzle the chicken thighs with the remaining olive oil and toss with the remaining garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken and mix to coat every piece thoroughly.

Step 4: Arrange on the Sheet Pan

Spread the sweet potatoes out in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Nestle the buffalo-coated chicken thighs among the sweet potatoes, making sure not to overcrowd the pan for even roasting.

Step 5: Roast

Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized around the edges. Halfway through, use tongs to flip the chicken and stir the sweet potatoes for even cooking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped green onions over the chicken and sweet potatoes for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory.

In-Season Swaps

Seasonal ingredients keep recipes exciting and budget-friendly. Here are a few swaps you can try with this Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken & Sweet Potatoes:

Swap sweet potatoes for roasted butternut squash for a slightly nuttier flavor and seasonal twist.
Use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the sheet pan for extra veggies and color.
Try swapping buffalo sauce for a mild BBQ sauce or a hot honey glaze for a different flavor profile.

Testing Timeline

10 minutes: Prepping ingredients—dicing sweet potatoes, seasoning chicken, and getting everything ready.
25-30 minutes: Roasting time at 425°F (220°C), with a flip halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5 minutes: Garnishing and plating before serving.
Total time: Approximately 40-45 minutes from start to finish.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken & Sweet Potatoes recipe makes excellent leftovers that keep well for up to four days in the fridge. Store in airtight containers and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weekdays or a quick lunch option.

For meal prep, consider pairing the leftovers with a fresh side like a green salad or steamed vegetables. Or, transform the dish into a bowl by adding leafy greens and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for a complete, satisfying meal.

Common Qs About Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken & Sweet Potatoes

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but since they are leaner, keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid drying out. You might want to reduce the roasting time by a few minutes and check for doneness earlier.

How spicy is the buffalo sauce in this recipe?

The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. If you prefer milder flavors, opt for a mild buffalo sauce or mix it with a little melted butter to tone down the spice. For a spicier kick, go for a hot or extra hot buffalo sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free buffalo sauce. Always double-check sauce labels to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are included.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the chicken?

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, microwave with a damp paper towel over the dish to keep the chicken juicy.

What to Make After This

Try the zesty Chili Lime Sweet Potato Chicken for a fresh take on sweet potatoes and chicken with vibrant citrus flavors.
For a veggie-packed side, whip up the nutritious Roasted Sweet Potato And Kale Bowl that’s loaded with wholesome greens and roasted goodness.
If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, the Garlic Parmesan Pull Apart Potatoes are a crowd-pleaser featuring crispy, cheesy bites perfect for sharing.

Time to Try It

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of buffalo-spiced chicken roasting alongside sweet potatoes to bring comfort and excitement to your dinner table. This Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken & Sweet Potatoes recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy a balanced meal bursting with vibrant flavors and minimal effort. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for busy cooks looking for a delicious, fuss-free dinner. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor every bite of this mouthwatering sheet pan meal.

Sheet Pan Buffalo Chicken & Sweet Potatoes combines the best of spicy, sweet, and savory notes in a single dish that’s easy enough for any night of the week. The juicy chicken thighs and perfectly roasted sweet potatoes come together with the punch of buffalo sauce and the freshness of green onions to create a meal that’s both satisfying and exciting. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a go-to. Enjoy!

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