Go Back
There's something incredibly satisfying about creating a delicious meal at home, and this Smoky BBQ Chicken paired with Crispy Sweet Potato Fries is no exception. The combination of juicy, smoky chicken and the crunch of sweet potato fries offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that is sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you're preparing a family gathering, a weeknight dinner, or a laid-back entertaining event, this recipe is versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Baked Barbecue Chicken and Sweet Potato Fries

Elevate your dinner game with this savory Smoky BBQ Chicken paired with Crispy Sweet Potato Fries. This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs coated in smoky barbecue sauce with crunchy, seasoned sweet potato fries, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for any occasion, this meal is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Gather your ingredients and whip up this satisfying dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients
  

For the Baked Barbecue Chicken:

4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for enhanced juiciness)

1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Sweet Potato Fries:

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin matchsticks

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for an extra crispy texture)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve crispy skin on the chicken and perfectly golden fries.

    Prepare the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well blended. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly with the spice mixture. Arrange the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the chicken, setting aside some sauce for basting later.

      Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the baking sheet and baste the chicken with additional barbecue sauce. Return the chicken to the oven and continue to bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin turns crispy and caramelized.

        Prepare the Sweet Potato Fries: While the chicken bakes, prepare the sweet potato fries. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cornstarch (if using). Toss the mixture until all pieces are evenly coated for maximum flavor and crispiness.

          Bake the Fries: Spread the sweet potato fries in a single layer on a separate baking sheet (using parchment paper will promote crispiness and allow for easy cleanup). Bake in the oven alongside the chicken for about 20-25 minutes. Remember to flip the fries halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly and develop that desired crunch.

            Serve: Once the chicken and fries are cooked, pull both from the oven. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to retain its juices, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Plate the succulent BBQ chicken with a generous serving of crispy sweet potato fries. For added enjoyment, place extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the chicken on a rustic wooden board and arrange the sweet potato fries in a small basket or wave in a cone for a fun, casual vibe. Adding a sprig of parsley on the fries can enhance the presentation while adding a fresh touch. Enjoy your meal!