This Chicken Sweet Potato Recipe is a flavor-packed bowl. Hearty rice, roasted sweet potatoes, tender chicken, crunchy almonds, crisp apples, and a balsamic dressing you will want on everything!
From the Author
Sweetgreen Cravings, Mastered at Home!
Introducing Your New Favorite: The Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl!
As a huge fan of vibrant, wholesome bowls, I’m thrilled to share my latest creation – a delightful copycat of the popular Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl. This is my third venture into recreating beloved Sweetgreen recipes, and given how much you adored the Hot Honey Chicken Bowl and BBQ Chicken Bowl, I have a strong feeling this one will become an instant hit in your kitchen. It’s truly a labor of love, bringing that fresh, restaurant-quality taste right to your home.
The magic of this bowl lies in the perfect symphony of flavors and textures. Imagine perfectly roasted sweet potatoes, tender, savory chicken, earthy wild rice, and a drizzle of my signature balsamic dressing – each component plays a crucial role in creating a truly unforgettable meal. I’ve been making large batches for meal prep, allowing me to effortlessly assemble these bowls for quick, nutritious lunches or satisfying dinners throughout the week. Even my children, with their discerning palates, enjoy these bowls (minus the kale, nuts, or cheese for them, of course!). Crafting this chicken sweet potato recipe always feels like a victory!
The Ultimate Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl: A Sweetgreen Copycat
Discover how to create a nourishing and incredibly flavorful Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl right in your own kitchen. This recipe takes inspiration from the beloved Sweetgreen menu, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes, all packed into a wholesome, satisfying meal. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, healthy meal prep, or simply enjoying a delicious, restaurant-quality salad at home without the hefty price tag.
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Harvest Bowl
This isn’t just another chicken and sweet potato recipe; it’s a meticulously crafted bowl designed to delight your taste buds and fuel your body. Here’s why this Harvest Bowl is destined to become a staple:
- Explosion of Flavors & Textures: Experience the perfect harmony of sweet, caramelized roasted sweet potatoes, juicy chicken, earthy wild rice, crisp apples, crunchy almonds, and tangy goat cheese, all brought together by a vibrant balsamic dressing. Every bite offers a new sensation.
- Nutrient-Dense & Wholesome: Packed with complex carbohydrates, lean protein, healthy fats, and a wealth of vitamins and minerals from the fresh produce. It’s a meal that truly nourishes from the inside out.
- Perfect for Meal Prepping: Designed with convenience in mind, most components can be prepared ahead of time, making assembly a breeze on busy days. Say goodbye to sad desk lunches and hello to exciting, flavorful meals throughout your week.
- Highly Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Vegetarian? Swap chicken for chickpeas! Dairy-free? Omit the goat cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Satisfying & Filling: Thanks to its balanced macros and diverse ingredients, this bowl keeps you feeling full and satisfied, preventing those afternoon energy slumps.
Essential Ingredients for Your Harvest Bowl
Crafting the perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl starts with selecting high-quality, fresh ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with some helpful tips for each component:
| Ingredient | Helpful Tip for Best Results |
|---|---|
| Sweet Potatoes & Seasonings & Olive Oil | For uniform cooking and delicious caramelization, ensure sweet potatoes are cut into even, thin half-moon slices (about 1/4 inch thick). Flipping them halfway through roasting promotes crisp edges and even browning. A generous toss with olive oil and a blend of chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper will infuse them with incredible flavor. |
| Wild Rice Mix | A boxed wild rice blend offers a convenient and flavorful base. Its nutty texture complements the other ingredients beautifully. Alternatively, you can use other wholesome grains like quinoa for a protein boost, farro for a chewy texture, or brown rice for a classic option. |
| Chicken | To save time, a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut. Simply shred or chop it. If you prefer to cook fresh chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs can be baked, grilled, or pan-seared and then chopped into bite-sized pieces. Season generously for maximum flavor. |
| Kale & Apples | Kale provides a nutritious green base. Remember to massage the kale with a little olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice after washing to soften its texture and reduce any bitterness. For apples, choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady to add a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements. Dice them just before serving to maintain their freshness and prevent browning. |
| Goat Cheese & Almonds & Balsamic Dressing | Creamy goat cheese adds a wonderful tang and richness. If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, crumbled feta cheese makes a fantastic substitute. Dry roasted and lightly salted almonds contribute a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor – a quick toast can enhance this even further. For the dressing, a homemade balsamic vinaigrette is key. Ensure you shake it vigorously before each use to fully emulsify the ingredients. |
Crafting Your Perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to bring your delicious Sweetgreen-inspired Harvest Bowl to life. Each stage is designed for maximum flavor and ease of preparation.
1. Prepare Your Base: Rice and Chicken
- Start by cooking your wild rice blend according to the package instructions. This usually involves simmering the rice in water or broth until tender and fluffy. While the rice cooks, it’s the ideal time to prepare your chicken.
- If using fresh chicken, bake, grill, or pan-sear it until cooked through, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and any preferred herbs or spices to complement the bowl’s flavors. Alternatively, shred a rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy protein source.
2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes to Golden Perfection
- Preheat your oven to a robust 425°F (220°C). High heat ensures beautifully caramelized and tender-crisp sweet potatoes.
- Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into thin half-moon slices, about 1/4 inch thick. Consistency in size is crucial for even cooking.
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Ensure every piece is well-coated.
- Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a rimmed sheet pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan; use two pans if necessary to prevent steaming, which can lead to soggy results.
- Bake for 27-35 minutes, flipping the sweet potatoes every 10-15 minutes, until they are tender on the inside and boast deliciously crisp, lightly charred edges.
3. Whisk Up the Zesty Balsamic Dressing
A good dressing ties all the flavors together. Our homemade balsamic vinaigrette is simple yet incredibly effective:
- In a wide-mouth jar or a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, Dijon-style mustard, honey, and olive oil.
- If using a jar, secure the lid and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and emulsified into a smooth dressing. If using a bowl, whisk continuously until creamy. If the honey is a bit stubborn, a quick whisk will help it dissolve.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning. I usually add about 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper to enhance the flavors, but feel free to tailor it to your preference.
4. Prepare the Fresh Greens
Kale forms the backbone of this nutritious bowl:
- Finely chop or shred the kale.
- Place the chopped kale in a colander and rinse it thoroughly under cool running water. While rinsing, use your hands to gently scrunch and massage the kale for 1-2 minutes. This crucial step softens the tough fibers, making the kale more palatable and less bitter.
- After massaging, ensure the kale is thoroughly dried. A salad spinner is highly recommended for this, as excess moisture can make your bowl watery. If you don’t have one, lay the kale out on clean kitchen towels or pat it dry with paper towels until no visible moisture remains.
5. Assemble Your Flavorful Harvest Bowls
Now for the best part – bringing it all together!
- Evenly divide the cooked wild rice and chopped chicken among four serving bowls.
- Artfully arrange the roasted sweet potatoes, massaged kale, diced crisp apples, crumbled goat cheese, and coarsely chopped almonds on top of the rice and chicken.
- Just before serving, drizzle a generous amount of your homemade balsamic dressing over each bowl.
- Serve immediately and savor every delicious bite! For future meals, refer to our meal prep guide below.
Smart Storage for Meal Prep
Planning ahead makes healthy eating effortless. Here’s how to store each component of your Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl for optimal freshness throughout the week:
- Sweet Potatoes, Rice & Chicken: Store these cooked components together or separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm the rice and sweet potatoes until very hot, then stir in the chicken to warm it through to maintain its tenderness.
- Kale & Apples: These fresh ingredients are best stored separately. Keep the massaged kale in a sealed bag or container. Dice apples just before serving to keep them crisp and prevent browning. If dicing ahead, a quick soak in lemon water can help.
- Goat Cheese & Almonds: Refrigerate the goat cheese in an airtight container. Keep the dry roasted almonds at room temperature in a sealed container to maintain their crunch. Add both just before serving.
- Dressing: Store the balsamic vinaigrette in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Always give it a good shake before each use to re-emulsify the ingredients.
Assembling the bowls just before eating ensures the best texture and prevents any components from becoming soggy.
Print Recipe
Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl
Chelsea Lords
This Chicken Sweet Potato Recipe is loaded with flavor! Wild rice, sweet potatoes, chicken, apples, almonds, and a delicious balsamic drizzle for a perfect meal prep friendly bowl.
Equipment
- Rimmed sheet pan
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (3 large) sweet potatoes, peeled & cut into thin half-moon slices (1/4th inch thick, about 6 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (6-ounce) box Long Grain and Wild Rice Mix (Ben’s Original recommended)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped (see note 1 for options)
- 2 large Honeycrisp apples, diced
- 4 cups finely chopped kale
- 2/3 cup goat cheese or feta, crumbled
- 2/3 cup dry roasted and lightly salted almonds, coarsely chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Cook Rice and Chicken: Prepare wild rice according to package directions. If cooking fresh chicken, prepare that now by baking, grilling, or pan-searing until cooked through, then chopping.
- Roast Sweet Potatoes: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and about 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Spread in a single layer on a rimmed sheet pan. Bake for 27–35 minutes, flipping every 10–15 minutes, until tender and lightly charred.
- Make Dressing: In a wide-mouth jar, combine all dressing ingredients (balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil). Shake well to combine and emulsify. (If honey sticks to the bottom, whisk it in.) Taste and adjust seasoning; typically add 1/4 teaspoon salt & 1/8 teaspoon pepper.
- Prep Kale: Finely shred kale, then place in a colander. Rinse under cool water while scrunching/massaging for 1–2 minutes to soften. Thoroughly dry in a salad spinner or with paper towels.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide rice and chicken evenly among 4 bowls. Top with roasted sweet potatoes, kale, apples, goat cheese, and almonds. Drizzle dressing over each bowl and serve immediately. For meal prep, store components separately and assemble just before eating.
Recipe Notes
Note 1 on Chicken: A hot rotisserie chicken offers the easiest and quickest shortcut. Grilled or baked chicken breasts or thighs also work beautifully and absorb the balsamic dressing flavors wonderfully.
Storage for Freshness: For meal prep, store all cooked components separately in airtight containers. Sweet potatoes, rice, and chicken keep well for 3–4 days in the fridge. Kale, apples, cheese, and almonds should also be stored in their own separate containers to maintain their distinct textures and freshness. The homemade balsamic dressing can be refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 1 week; always shake it well before using. Assemble your bowls just before serving for the best possible texture and vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 683 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 74 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Cholesterol: 69 mg
- Sodium: 244 mg
- Potassium: 1209 mg
- Fiber: 11 g
- Sugar: 18 g
- Vitamin A: 26163 IU
- Vitamin C: 60 mg
- Calcium: 216 mg
- Iron: 3 mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Expert Tips for the Best Harvest Bowl
Achieve perfection with your Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl by keeping these expert tips in mind:
- Dice Apples Last or Treat Them: To ensure your apples remain bright, crisp, and don’t brown, dice them just before you’re ready to assemble and serve your bowls. If you absolutely need to prep them ahead of time, consider a quick trick like soaking them in a little lemon water or using a fruit preserver, as detailed in my guide on keeping apples from browning.
- Double Your Dressing Batch: This balsamic dressing is so incredibly versatile and delicious, you’ll want it on everything! Making a double batch is a smart move. It stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to a week and can be used on other salads, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade later in the week, saving you time and adding flavor to other meals.
- Toast Almonds for Enhanced Flavor: While dry roasted almonds are already good, a quick toast truly elevates their flavor and crunch. Simply spread them on a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, tossing frequently until fragrant, or bake them on a sheet pan for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Let them cool completely before adding to your bowls.
- Ensure Kale is Completely Dry: After massaging and rinsing your kale, it’s crucial to dry it thoroughly. Excess moisture can lead to a watery dressing and a less appealing texture in your bowl. The most effective tool for this is a salad spinner; if you don’t have one, lay the kale out on clean kitchen towels or pat it dry with paper towels until no visible moisture remains.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Sweet Potatoes: When roasting sweet potatoes, give them space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding causes them to steam instead of roast, resulting in soft rather than deliciously caramelized and crispy potatoes. Use two sheet pans if necessary to ensure a single, even layer.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Throughout the cooking process, especially for the sweet potatoes and the dressing, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. A little extra salt, pepper, or a touch more honey in the dressing can make a significant difference to the overall flavor profile of your bowl.
Quick Tip for Gatherings
For family dinners or casual gatherings, consider serving this Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl buffet-style. Lay out all the prepared ingredients in separate bowls and let everyone build their own custom creation. This is not only fun but also ensures everyone gets exactly what they like!
Creative Leftover Ideas and Serving Suggestions
One of the many benefits of this Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl is how wonderfully it transforms into delicious leftovers. By storing the components separately, you open up a world of easy, mix-and-match meal opportunities throughout your week.
Beyond the Bowl: Reinventing Your Leftovers
- Savory Wraps or Pitas: Transform leftover rice, chicken, and sweet potatoes into a quick and satisfying handheld lunch. Simply warm the ingredients and tuck them into a soft tortilla wrap or a pita pocket. Add a spoonful of dressing and a handful of fresh greens for a complete meal on the go.
- Hearty Salad Base: The cooked components make an excellent foundation for a completely new salad. Toss them with additional mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and any other vegetables you fancy. The balsamic dressing will tie it all together beautifully.
- Comforting Soup Addition: Give new life to your leftovers by stirring the chicken, sweet potatoes, and rice into a simple soup base. A creamy chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even a spiced coconut milk base would create a hearty and warming next-day meal, perfect for cooler weather.
- Breakfast Hash: Repurpose the roasted sweet potatoes and chicken into a savory breakfast hash. Sauté with some onions and bell peppers, then top with a fried egg for a protein-packed morning meal.
Additional Serving Enhancements
- Add More Greens: Feel free to increase the amount of kale or add other leafy greens like spinach or mixed spring greens for an extra boost of vitamins.
- Extra Toppings: Consider adding avocado slices for healthy fats and creaminess, toasted pecans or walnuts for an alternative crunch, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Warm or Cold: This bowl is fantastic served slightly warm, especially the rice, chicken, and sweet potatoes. However, it’s equally delightful as a refreshing cold salad, making it incredibly versatile for any season.
Dietary Swaps & Variations for Every Taste
This Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to easily customize it to fit various dietary needs or simply to experiment with new flavors. Here are some popular swaps and variations:
Make it Your Own: Adaptations for Special Diets
- Vegetarian Option: Easily transform this into a delicious vegetarian meal by omitting the chicken. Substitute with roasted chickpeas (which add great texture and protein), baked tofu, tempeh, or black beans. You could also try a hearty grain like farro or quinoa for more plant-based protein.
- Dairy-Free Version: For those avoiding dairy, simply skip the goat cheese. The bowl will still be incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Alternatively, you can use your favorite plant-based cheese substitute, such as a vegan feta-style crumble.
- Nut-Free Alternative: If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer to omit them, skip the almonds. You can replace the crunch with toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or sunflower seeds, which offer a similar textural contrast and nutritional benefits.
- Different Greens: While kale is excellent, feel free to use other leafy greens. A mix of spinach and arugula can add a peppery note, or romaine lettuce can provide a crispier base.
- Sweet Potato Alternatives: If sweet potatoes aren’t your preference, roasted butternut squash, delicata squash, or even regular potatoes can be used in their place, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
- Spice Level Adjustment: Adjust the amount of chili powder and paprika on the sweet potatoes to suit your preferred spice level. For an extra kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added.
- Dressing Variations: While the balsamic dressing is perfect, feel free to experiment with other vinaigrettes. A lemon-tahini dressing, a maple-Dijon vinaigrette, or even a simple lemon-herb dressing would complement these ingredients beautifully.
With these simple adjustments, you can enjoy a personalized Chicken Sweet Potato Harvest Bowl that perfectly fits your lifestyle and taste preferences.
More Delicious Sweet Potato Recipes to Explore:
If you’ve fallen in love with the versatility and flavor of sweet potatoes in this Harvest Bowl, you’re in for a treat! This vibrant root vegetable is incredibly adaptable and stars in many of our other popular recipes. Explore these wholesome and satisfying sweet potato dishes to keep your menu fresh and exciting.
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