Chicken, Bacon, and Mushroom Baked Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:

4 medium sweet potatoes

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 strips bacon, chopped

1 lb (450 g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, diced

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon butter

8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/3 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

1/4 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Bake the Sweet Potatoes:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub sweet potatoes and pierce them a few times with a fork. Bake directly on the oven rack for 45–50 minutes, or until soft and tender.
2. Cook the Bacon:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set on paper towels. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the pan.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Add to the pan and sauté until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté the Mushrooms:
   Melt the butter in the same skillet. Add mushrooms and cook for about 5–7 minutes until they’re golden and tender. Add minced garlic and cook 1 more minute. Return the chicken and bacon to the pan, stirring to combine.
5. Assemble the Potatoes:
   Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly, then slice open the tops and fluff the insides with a fork. Spoon the creamy chicken-bacon-mushroom mixture generously into each potato.
6. Top and Bake (Optional):
   Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top. Place back in the oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and melty.
7. Garnish & Serve:
   Finish with fresh herbs and serve warm. These are perfect on their own or with a side salad!

Nutritional Information:
⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 50 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~500 kcal | 🍽️