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If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries & Avocado Salsa Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly balances tender, flavorful grilled chicken tenders with crispy, golden sweet potato fries and a bright, refreshing avocado salsa that bursts with freshness. Each component shines on its own but together they create an irresistible dish that’s wholesome, colorful, and packed with vibrant flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend treat, this recipe is exceptionally satisfying and surprisingly simple to bring together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this recipe are straightforward and easy to find, yet each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish so special. From the earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes to the zesty brightness of the salsa, every element complements the others perfectly.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into tenders): The star protein that gets infused with spices and remains juicy and tender after grilling.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Essential for marinating the chicken and coating the sweet potatoes to achieve that crisp finish.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory depth to both chicken and fries.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Enhances the chicken marinade with subtle sweetness and savoriness.
- 1 tsp paprika: Brings a smoky, vibrant color and mild heat to chicken and fries alike.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Offers an earthy herbal note perfect for the chicken marinade.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Gives a gentle kick to the seasoning blend.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped): Lends freshness and a beautiful green pop to the chicken.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the chicken marinade with citrus zing.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (cut into fries): Naturally sweet and perfect for baking into crunchy fries.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Ensures fries crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds smoky flavor and color to the sweet potato fries.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Infuses fries with savory warmth.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the fries evenly.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds subtle heat to the fries.
- 1 avocado (diced): Creamy and buttery, it shines in the salsa.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Brings juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant red color.
- ¼ red onion (finely chopped): Provides a mild crunch and sharpness to the salsa.
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped): Lends fresh, citrusy notes that tie the salsa together.
- 1 tbsp lime juice: Adds acidity and brightness to the salsa.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Balances the salsa perfectly.
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream: Creates a cool, creamy dipping sauce that complements every bite.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds subtle garlic flavor to the sauce.
- ½ tsp dried dill: Offers a delicate herby freshness to the dip.
- ½ tsp lemon juice: Enhances the tanginess of the sauce.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Ensures the sauce is perfectly seasoned.
How to Make Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries & Avocado Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato Fries
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the sweet potato fries in olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spreading them out evenly on a baking sheet is key to getting them nice and crispy, so avoid overcrowding. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even golden perfection. The sweet potatoes will come out tender on the inside and delightfully crunchy on the outside—pure comfort in each bite.
Step 2: Marinate & Grill the Chicken
While the fries bake, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, fresh parsley, and lemon juice in a bowl to create a flavorful marinade. Toss the chicken tenders in this mixture, allowing the spices and citrus to seep in for about 10 minutes. Grill the chicken over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This method locks in juiciness while delivering that irresistible smoky grilled flavor we all love.
Step 3: Make the Avocado Salsa
In a clean bowl, gently combine the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. The goal is to keep the avocado intact while letting the salsa ingredients mingle to create a fresh, creamy, and tangy topping that perfectly cuts through the richness of the chicken and fries.
Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
Whisk together Greek yogurt or sour cream with garlic powder, dried dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Chill this sauce in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. It’s the ideal cool, herby contrast to the warm, spiced elements of the dish and adds an extra fun dipping dimension.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
Arrange the grilled chicken tenders on plates alongside generous portions of sweet potato fries. Spoon the vibrant avocado salsa on top or on the side, and don’t forget a small bowl of the creamy dipping sauce for dunking. This colorful plate promises a harmony of textures and flavors that make the Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries & Avocado Salsa Recipe a meal you’ll want to make again and again.
How to Serve Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries & Avocado Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled over the finished dish elevate the presentation and add bursts of fresh flavor. A dusting of smoked paprika or a few lime wedges can brighten the dish visually and taste-wise, making it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a light coleslaw to add crunch and balance. For a heartier meal, some steamed green beans or roasted asparagus work wonderfully—just keep it simple to let the main plate take center stage.
Creative Ways to Present
Grab a rustic wooden board and serve the grilled chicken tenders scattered with sweet potato fries piled high alongside small bowls of avocado salsa and dipping sauce. It’s a fantastic way to share this meal family-style, inviting everyone to dig in. Alternatively, stack the chicken and fries, topping everything with a spoonful of salsa for a colorful stacked presentation that’s as fun to serve as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover chicken, fries, and salsa stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This helps preserve their individual textures—the fries stay somewhat crispy when reheated properly, and the avocado salsa remains fresh and vibrant when kept cold.
Freezing
The grilled chicken tenders freeze well and can be stored in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to three months. Sweet potato fries are best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen too if laid out in a single layer first to prevent sticking. Avocado salsa, due to its fresh ingredients, doesn’t freeze well and is best made fresh or consumed within a day or two of preparation.
Reheating
Reheat chicken tenders gently in a preheated oven or air fryer to maintain moisture and avoid drying out. Sweet potato fries reheat best in the oven or air fryer as well to crisp them up without turning soggy. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that satisfying crunch. For the avocado salsa, serve cold straightforwardly from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat and tend to stay juicier, which some prefer. Just adjust grilling time a bit as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through, and the flavor will be a bit richer.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Greek yogurt for the sauce?
Sour cream works perfectly as an alternative. If you want a lighter option, plain yogurt or even a creamy plant-based yogurt can be used to maintain the sauce’s texture and tanginess.
Is this recipe spicy?
This recipe has a mild warmth from the paprika and black pepper, but it is not spicy hot. If you enjoy a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade or sprinkling some chili flakes on the avocado salsa.
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes! Baking the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F will yield tender and flavorful results. Finish under the broiler for a minute or two to get some color if you like.
How do I keep avocado salsa from turning brown?
Adding lime juice helps slow browning significantly. Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to minimize air exposure. For best flavor and color, consume it within a day or two.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and uplifting about this Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries & Avocado Salsa Recipe. It’s a dish that invites you to enjoy layers of flavor and texture while keeping things fresh, light, and wholesome. Whether you’re feeding two or want to impress at a casual dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your home kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears from the table!
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Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries & Avocado Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This vibrant and wholesome recipe features tender grilled chicken tenders paired with crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries and a fresh, zesty avocado salsa. Complemented by a creamy dill and garlic yogurt dipping sauce, this dish offers a balanced mix of flavors and textures perfect for a healthy yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade and Tendons
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into tenders)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Sweet Potato Fries
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (cut into fries)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Avocado Salsa
- 1 avocado (diced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ¼ red onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt & pepper to taste
Dipping Sauce
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried dill
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potato Fries: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to ensure they’re evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer to promote crispiness. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to achieve an even golden and crispy texture.
- Marinate & Grill the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and lemon juice to create a flavorful marinade. Add the chicken tenders, coating them thoroughly, and let them marinate for 10 minutes to absorb all the spices. Grill the tenders on medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes per side until fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- Make the Avocado Salsa: In a separate bowl, gently combine diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss carefully to blend all the flavors while maintaining the salsa’s fresh texture.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt or sour cream with garlic powder, dried dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth. Chill the sauce until you’re ready to serve to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Assemble & Serve: Arrange the grilled chicken tenders on plates alongside the crispy sweet potato fries and a generous serving of avocado salsa. Serve the dill garlic dipping sauce on the side for added creaminess and flavor. Enjoy your balanced and delicious meal!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, soak sweet potato fries in cold water for 30 minutes before baking, then pat dry.
- Use a grill pan or outdoor grill depending on your preference for grilling chicken.
- For a dairy-free option, use a non-dairy yogurt alternative in the dipping sauce.
- Marinate chicken for longer (up to 1 hour) for deeper flavor absorption.
- Adjust seasoning in avocado salsa and dipping sauce to taste.
- Leftover sweet potato fries can be reheated in the oven to regain crispiness.
