High Protein Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey & Feta

Why Make This High Protein Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey & Feta

High Protein Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey & Feta are the perfect blend of nutritious and delicious, making them a great choice for any meal. These rounds offer a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will satisfy your taste buds while fueling your body. Sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, while chicken breast adds a generous dose of lean protein. Meanwhile, the honey and feta create an irresistible topping that enhances the overall dish with a creamy and slightly tangy essence. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a snack, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also visually appealing, making it a crowd-pleaser for both family meals and special gatherings.

How to Make High Protein Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey & Feta

Making these delightful sweet potato rounds is quite simple, and the process allows you to infuse plenty of flavor into every bite. You’ll start by roasting the sweet potatoes, which caramelizes their natural sugars and brings out a delicious sweetness. The chicken is seasoned and cooked alongside, ensuring that when topped with the creamy feta and crunchy nuts, every layer of flavor shines through. Meanwhile, the drizzle of honey yogurt adds a luscious finishing touch that ties everything together perfectly.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1 lb each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sweet potatoes)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for sweet potatoes)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for sweet potatoes)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (for chicken)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for chicken)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for chicken)
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Slice sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick rounds, keeping them as uniform as possible. You should get approximately 16-18 rounds total. Place in a mixing bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.

  3. Arrange sweet potato rounds on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer without overlap. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fork-tender with golden-brown edges.

  4. After sweet potatoes have roasted for 10 minutes, start the chicken. Season chicken breast with 1 teaspoon olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. After handling raw chicken, wash hands and surfaces with hot soapy water.

  5. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips or dice into small pieces.

  6. While chicken rests, toast pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet (or wipe out the chicken pan) over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Chop when cooled.

  7. Remove sweet potatoes from oven and let cool for 5 minutes to set. Transfer rounds to a serving platter.

  8. Top each sweet potato round with 2-3 slices of chicken (about 1 oz per round), then sprinkle generously with crumbled feta cheese (about 1 tablespoon), toasted nuts, and pumpkin seeds.

  9. Mix honey with Greek yogurt and drizzle generously over topped rounds. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

This recipe serves approximately 4 and offers the following nutritional information per serving:

  • Calories: 450
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 6g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 30g

How to Serve High Protein Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey & Feta

These roasted sweet potato rounds make for a versatile dish. Serve them as a hearty appetizer or as a component of a balanced meal. Pair them with a fresh salad for a light dinner, or enjoy them at your next gathering as finger food. They also make a great protein-packed post-workout snack. If entertaining, consider serving with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavor options.

How to Store High Protein Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey & Feta

To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them warm later, reheat them in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain their crispness. Be mindful that the toppings may need adjustments, especially if they contain honey, which may harden when chilled.

Expert Tips for Perfect High Protein Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey & Feta

  1. Uniform Slicing: Try to slice the sweet potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking. Use a mandoline for consistent thickness if available.

  2. Flavor Variations: Feel free to switch out the feta for goat cheese or flavored cheese for a new taste. You can also alter the nuts to your favorite variety, like almonds or pistachios.

  3. Honey Substitution: If you’re looking to reduce sugar, substitute honey with agave syrup or a sugar-free honey alternative.

  4. Spice Levels: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or adjust the smoked paprika to suit your taste preferences.

Delicious Variations

  • Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with grilled tempeh or chickpeas, and replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.

  • Mediterranean Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean flavor boost.

  • Mexican Style: Top rounds with black beans, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh, zesty kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I prepare these sweet potato rounds in advance?
    Yes, you can slice and season the sweet potatoes a day in advance. Store them in the fridge in an airtight container until you’re ready to roast them.

  2. What can I serve with these sweet potato rounds?
    They pair excellently with a side salad, grilled vegetables, or a quinoa dish for a complete meal.

  3. How can I make this recipe lower in calories?
    You can reduce the amount of olive oil, feta cheese, and honey used. You could also opt for a lighter protein, such as turkey breast.

Conclusion

High Protein Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey & Feta are not just delicious; they also provide a perfect balance of flavors and nutrients that can satisfy any palate. The combination of sweet and savory offers a delightful taste experience, while the texture of roasted sweet potatoes and crunchy toppings adds a satisfying crunch. Whether for a family dinner, a lunch meal prep, or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try – you won’t regret it! Let us know how it turns out for you, and feel free to share your variations! Happy cooking!

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