I first came up with this mix on a cool autumn afternoon, using leftover roasted chicken and sweet potatoes from my own meal. After adjusting the ingredients to suit Benji’s nutritional needs, it turned into a soft, tasty mash he devoured in seconds. Now it’s one of his favorite wholesome, homemade treats. Here’s how you can make this simple, nourishing recipe and why it’s worth adding to your dog’s regular menu.
Why Chicken and Sweet Potato Make a Great Combo for Dogs
Sweet potatoes and chicken breast both bring excellent nutrition to your dog’s bowl. Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, beta carotene, and vitamins B6 and C. They’re gentle on the digestive system and provide a natural boost of energy perfect for fueling Benji after a long day of exploring the park.
Chicken breast is a lean, high quality protein that helps maintain strong muscles and steady energy levels. When boiled and shredded, it turns tender and easy to chew, making it perfect for dogs of any age including seniors with sensitive teeth.
Combined, these two ingredients create a nourishing, well rounded base for a tasty homemade dog meal or even a nutritious topper for regular kibble.
Befor
Before You Start: Ingredients List
You’ll only need a few simple ingredients to make this Sweet Potato Chicken Mash:
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast (boiled and skinless)
- 1 cup mashed sweet potato (peeled and boiled until soft)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped spinach (steamed and minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, but great for healthy fats and a shiny coat)
This mix delivers everything your pup needs: lean protein, wholesome carbs, leafy greens, and a boost of healthy fats.
Making This Healthy Chicken Sweet Potato Mash
This recipe is simple, quick, and beginner-friendly even if you’re not an experienced cook.
Step by Step Instructions:
- Cook the chicken: Boil the chicken breast in plain water for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked. Let it cool, then shred into small, bite sized pieces using forks or your fingers.
- Prepare the sweet potato: Peel and chop the sweet potato into chunks, then boil until fork tender (about 10–15 minutes). Mash until smooth.
- Steam the spinach: Lightly steam the spinach just until softened, then finely mince.
- Combine ingredients: In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, mashed sweet potato, and minced spinach.
- Add healthy fats (optional): Stir in olive oil for extra nutrients and a shiny coat.
That’s it! In under 30 minutes, you have a wholesome, soft, and tasty meal or topper your dog will love.
Serving & Storage Tips
One of the best things about this Sweet Potato Chicken Mash is its versatility. Serve it as a complete meal for small dogs, or use it as a protein packed topper for larger dogs’ kibble. I often add a spoonful to Benji’s dry food to make dinner extra exciting.
Storage:
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in silicone molds or ice cube trays and thaw as needed.
For a refreshing alternative on warm days, try Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs perfect for post walk treats!
Customizing the Mash
Every dog has unique tastes and dietary needs, and this recipe is easy to adapt:
- Grain-free diets: Naturally free of grains like wheat, corn, or rice.
- Picky eaters: Add a bit of mashed banana or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
- Senior dogs: Make the texture extra soft and skip the olive oil if they have sensitive stomachs.
Why I Love This Recipe
One of the most rewarding parts of making homemade dog food is the connection it creates. Every time I prepare a batch of Sweet Potato Chicken Mash, it feels like more than just feeding Benji it’s a way of showing care and love in a tangible, personal way.
There’s also peace of mind in knowing exactly what goes into his meals. No preservatives, no fillers just real, wholesome ingredients made with care. And seeing him lick his bowl clean every single time? That’s a joy no store bought treat can match.
A Note on Ingredient Quality
Whenever possible, I choose organic sweet potatoes and hormone free chicken. It’s a small step that can make a meaningful difference in your dog’s health over time. And while Benji isn’t particularly picky he once stole half a sandwich off the counter I can tell he enjoys the extra care that goes into his meals.
Spinach, even in small amounts, provides valuable nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and magnesium. Always steam it first, though raw spinach contains oxalates that can interfere with calcium absorption. Steaming softens the leaves and preserves their nutritional benefits, making it safer and easier for your dog to enjoy.
Portion Sizes & Feeding Guidelines
The right serving size depends on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Use these general guidelines to start:
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): ¼–½ cup per serving
- Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): ½–1 cup per serving
- Large dogs (50+ lbs): 1–1½ cups per serving
For small dogs, this mash can serve as a full meal once a day. For larger dogs, use it as a nutritious topper for their regular kibble. If serving as a supplement or treat, reduce their usual kibble to avoid overfeeding. Always provide fresh water alongside meals.
When to Use This Recipe
This versatile mash is great in many situations:
- Recovery meals: Soft, gentle, and easy to digest for dogs recovering from illness or surgery.
- Travel food: Pre portion into reusable containers for mess-free meals on the go.
- Kibble enhancement: Just a spoonful can boost the flavor and nutrition of dry food.
- Meal prep: Make a big batch on Sunday and portion it out for the week ahead.
- Ingredient Swaps & Add Ons for Variety
Dogs, like people, can get bored eating the same meal every day. To keep mealtime interesting and nutritionally balanced, try these dog-safe alternatives:
Protein options:
Swap chicken for lean turkey, cooked salmon (boneless), or scrambled eggs.
Vegetable swaps:
Replace spinach with cooked kale, zucchini, peas, or carrots steamed and finely chopped.
Add ins:
Mix in a tablespoon of canned plain pumpkin, finely grated apple (peeled and seedless), or a scoop of homemade peanut butter for extra flavor and nutrients.
For extra fiber, consider adding a bit of plain cooked oatmeal, especially if your dog is prone to constipation.
Common Questions About Sweet Potato Chicken Mash
Can I serve this mash daily?
Yes! It’s a great base meal, but rotating with other recipes or supplementing with kibble ensures your dog gets all essential nutrients.
Can puppies eat this?
Absolutely. Just mash it finely and adjust portion sizes for smaller pups. Reduce or skip olive oil for very young dogs.
Is this recipe safe for dogs with allergies?
Yes, it’s grain free and dairy free, making it suitable for dogs sensitive to wheat, corn, or dairy. Introduce new ingredients gradually to monitor for reactions.
Can I freeze it?
Definitely. Portion the mash into silicone ice cube trays and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge for quick, convenient meals.
For more freezer friendly treats, try Blueberry Pumpkin & Oatmeal Chews, which also store beautifully.
Monitoring Your Dog’s Health with Homemade Recipes
One of the biggest benefits of making homemade dog food is having full control over the ingredients. That said, it’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s health to ensure the recipe is working well for them. Look for these signs:
- Shiny coat and healthy skin
- Normal stool consistency
- Steady energy levels
- No itching or digestive upset
If your dog shows any signs of food intolerance such as diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive scratching stop feeding the mash and consult your veterinarian. Even wholesome, natural ingredients may not suit every dog, so regular monitoring is key.
Bonus Tip: Make Mealtime More Engaging
If your dog needs a little extra encouragement at mealtime, try these simple ideas:
- Serve the mash warm (not hot!) to enhance its natural aroma.
- Use a puzzle feeder or lick mat to slow down eating and add mental stimulation.
- Top the mash with crumbled Banana & Honey Biscuits for a fun treat texture combination.
A few thoughtful additions like these can turn an everyday meal into a moment of enrichment perfect for high energy or easily bored dogs.
Final Thoughts
Sweet Potato Chicken Mash is a reliable, nutritious option for dogs of all ages and sizes. It’s quick to prepare, easy to store, and highly adaptable to your dog’s taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether serving full meals or boosting regular kibble with a fresh, homemade topper, this recipe delivers both flavor and nutrition.
Chicken And Sweet Potato Mash Recipe for Dogs
I first came up with this mix on a cool autumn afternoon, using leftover roasted chicken and sweet potatoes from my own meal. After adjusting the ingredients to suit Max’s nutritional needs, it turned into a soft, tasty mash he devoured in seconds. Now it’s one of his favorite wholesome, homemade treats. Here’s how you can make this simple, nourishing recipe and why it’s worth adding to your dog’s regular menu.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast (boiled and skinless)
- 1 cup mashed sweet potato (peeled and boiled until soft)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped spinach (steamed and minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, but great for healthy fats and a shiny coat)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Boil the chicken breast in plain water for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked. Let it cool, then shred into small, bite sized pieces using forks or your fingers.
- Prepare the sweet potato: Peel and chop the sweet potato into chunks, then boil until fork tender (about 10–15 minutes). Mash until smooth.
- Steam the spinach: Lightly steam the spinach just until softened, then finely mince.
- Combine ingredients: In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, mashed sweet potato, and minced spinach.
- Add healthy fats (optional): Stir in olive oil for extra nutrients and a shiny coat.
That’s it! In under 30 minutes, you have a wholesome, soft, and tasty meal or topper your dog will love.
Notes
Whenever possible, I choose organic sweet potatoes and hormone free chicken. It’s a small step that can make a meaningful difference in your dog’s health over time. And while Max isn’t particularly picky he once stole half a sandwich off the counter I can tell he enjoys the extra care that goes into his meals. Spinach, even in small amounts, provides valuable nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and magnesium. Always steam it first, though raw spinach contains oxalates that can interfere with calcium absorption. Steaming softens the leaves and preserves their nutritional benefits, making it safer and easier for your dog to enjoy.