Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry. This dish has become a cherished favorite in my kitchen, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something nutritious yet indulgent. With its creamy coconut milk and vibrant spices, it brings the rich flavors of Indian cuisine right to your home without any fuss.

This recipe is not only simple to make but also a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy dinner for two, this curry is sure to impress. Plus, it’s made in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing pots!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Versatile Flavors: The balance of spices makes it flavorful without being too spicy—perfect for everyone!
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will come together beautifully in this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry. Most of these items are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up this dish anytime you crave something hearty and satisfying.

For the Curry

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, or avocado oil
• 1 red or yellow onion, diced
• 1 serrano pepper or jalapeño pepper, finely diced (see notes)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut to bite-size pieces
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated (or minced)
• 2 – 3 tablespoons curry powder (see notes)
• 1/2 teaspoon Indian red chili powder or regular chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garam masala (optional)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes or half of 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 2 medium), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml full-fat unsweetened coconut milk) (see notes)
• 3 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 – 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is its flexibility! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: You can easily substitute chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian version that’s equally satisfying.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more chili powder or even some green chilies to kick up the flavor.
• Change the creaminess: If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using light coconut milk instead of full-fat.

How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and chili pepper with salt. Sauté until the onion starts to soften—this usually takes about 2 minutes. This step builds the base flavors of your curry!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, add the chicken pieces in an even layer. Stir occasionally until they are slightly browned in spots. Browning enhances their flavor and gives depth to your dish.

Step 3: Spice It Up!

Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger along with all your spices: curry powder, chili powder, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and garam masala if you’re using it. Cooking them together for about a minute ensures every piece of chicken gets coated with those aromatic spices.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Sweet Potatoes

Pour in your crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine everything. Then add sweet potatoes along with coconut milk while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—those bits carry so much flavor! Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Cover your pan and let it simmer for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally. During this time, taste your curry and adjust seasoning as needed. Add chopped spinach last—covering again until wilted—and sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Finish It Off

Once everything is cooked perfectly, turn off the heat. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over your curry and stir in chopped cilantro for that vibrant freshness before serving hot over rice or with flatbread.

Enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting Chicken Sweet Potato Curry! It’s sure to become a beloved recipe at your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Making this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Prep your ingredients beforehand: Having everything chopped and ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. It helps you stay organized and keeps the flavors fresh as you cook.

• Adjust spice levels to your taste: If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of chili powder or skip the jalapeño altogether. On the other hand, if you love heat, feel free to add extra chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

• Use fresh herbs for a vibrant touch: Adding fresh cilantro at the end not only boosts flavor but also adds a pop of color to your dish, making it visually appealing.

• Let it simmer longer for deeper flavors: If you have the time, let your curry simmer a little longer than suggested. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating an even richer taste.

• Make it ahead of time: This curry tastes even better the next day! Make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator; the flavors will deepen overnight.

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Serving this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes that enhance its deliciousness. Here are some ideas to make your meal shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds both flavor and freshness.
• Sliced green onions: For added crunch and a mild onion flavor, thinly slice green onions and scatter them over each serving.
• Lime wedges: Offering lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze some zesty juice over their curry for an extra zing.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice is perfect for soaking up all that creamy curry goodness, providing a great base for your meal.

• Naan bread: Soft and pillowy naan can be used to scoop up the curry, making every bite a delight. You can even try whole wheat naan for a healthier option!

• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lemon juice and herbs can balance out the rich flavors of the curry, adding a refreshing crunch.

• Roasted vegetables: Simple roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots seasoned with olive oil and spices complement this dish beautifully while adding more nutrients.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry will impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the curry to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the curry cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

Can I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry vegetarian?

Yes! You can swap out chicken for chickpeas or tofu. Simply add them in during the cooking process where you’d normally add chicken.

How spicy is this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

The spice level can be adjusted by choosing milder peppers or reducing the amount of chili powder. It’s all about your personal preference!

What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or naan bread. Fresh cilantro adds a lovely garnish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry! It’s a wonderful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any dinner table. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your cooking experience! Happy cooking!