Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight, then this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is just the ticket. It’s one of those recipes that has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. Imagine coming home after a long day and having this delicious curry simmering away, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas that rival your favorite Indian takeout!

This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, perfect for family gatherings or a simple dinner at home. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken combined with sweet potatoes, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with lean protein and wholesome sweet potatoes, it’s a meal that nourishes both body and soul.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild spices and creamy coconut milk base, even picky eaters will love this dish!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This curry tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes mean more time enjoying your delicious creation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a breeze thanks to these simple, wholesome ingredients. Most of them are pantry staples you might already have on hand!

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 into 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 a 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, 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 how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have in your kitchen.

• Swap the protein: Use chickpeas or lentils instead of chicken for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or peas to sneak in extra nutrients.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more chili powder or even some cayenne pepper!
• Change the grain: Serve it over quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a twist.

How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the oil in a large sauté pan with a lid over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, chili pepper, and salt. Sauté until the onion starts to soften—about 2 minutes—this step brings out the sweetness of the onions and sets the flavor base for our curry.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs in an even layer and cook until they’re slightly browned in spots. This step adds depth to the flavor and makes sure every piece is packed with taste.

Step 3: Spice Things Up

Stir in minced garlic, ginger, curry powder, chili powder, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and garam masala if using. Stir constantly until everything is coated in those vibrant spices—this will take about a minute and fills your kitchen with enticing aromas.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes & Sweet Potatoes

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine before adding sweet potatoes and coconut milk. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom—those little bits hold so much flavor! Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing to simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Stir In Spinach

Check on your curry after 15 minutes; if everything looks good, season with more salt and pepper if needed. Now add the baby spinach; cover again and cook until wilted—about another 5 minutes.

Step 6: Finish & Enjoy

Turn off the heat, drizzle lemon juice over your curry, and stir in chopped cilantro for freshness. Serve hot over rice or alongside flatbread while garnishing with extra cilantro if desired.

And there you have it—a delightful Chicken Sweet Potato Curry that’s bound to become one of your go-to favorites! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Cooking is an adventure, and with these tips, you can elevate your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry to a whole new level!

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds juiciness and flavor. They stay tender throughout the cooking process, making your curry even more delicious.

• Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the serrano or jalapeño pepper before dicing. This simple step helps control the spice level while still keeping that lovely warmth.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your curry. If possible, buy whole spices and grind them just before use for an aromatic boost.

• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the curry to simmer gently lets all the flavors meld beautifully. It also ensures that the sweet potatoes become perfectly tender without falling apart.

• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds extra color and texture to your dish!

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Serving your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can be just as enjoyable as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a delightful dining experience that feels both cozy and inviting.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds vibrant color and a burst of flavor that complements the rich curry.
• Sliced green onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch when sprinkled on top right before serving.
• Toasted coconut flakes: For a unique twist, toss some unsweetened toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture and a subtle sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice is classic alongside curry. Its delicate flavor balances well with the rich sauce.
• Naan bread: Soft naan is perfect for scooping up curry. You can warm it in a pan or oven for an extra touch!
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lime dressing offers a cool contrast to the warm spices in the curry.
• Roasted cauliflower: Lightly seasoned roasted cauliflower adds another layer of flavor and makes for a nutritious side dish that pairs beautifully.

With these serving suggestions, your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry will shine at any dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for quick and delicious dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the curry cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen curry in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely; heat in intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry:

Can I use other types of potatoes?

You can substitute sweet potatoes with other varieties such as Yukon gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

Is Chicken Sweet Potato Curry healthy?

Absolutely! This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is packed with nutritious ingredients like lean chicken, sweet potatoes, and spinach, making it a wholesome choice for dinner.

How can I adjust the spice level in Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or skip using Serrano or jalapeño peppers entirely. You can also add more coconut milk to tone down spiciness after cooking.

What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or flatbread. Add a side salad for extra freshness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry as much as I do! It’s a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also versatile and satisfying. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep for busy days ahead, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!