Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that comes together in just one pot, look no further than this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only packed with flavor, but it also warms the heart and soul. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy family gathering, this curry is sure to impress everyone at the table.

The best part? It’s made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. The rich, creamy coconut milk blended with aromatic spices creates an indulgent sauce that coats tender chicken and sweet potatoes perfectly. Trust me, once you make this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry, it will quickly become one of your favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pan!
• Flavorful & Creamy: The combination of spices and coconut milk makes each bite rich and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the mild flavors, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with nutrient-rich sweet potatoes and spinach for added goodness.
• Easy Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Chicken Sweet Potato Curry. You’ll find that most of these are pantry staples, making it super convenient to whip up this delightful dish whenever the craving strikes.

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, 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

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is quite versatile! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chickpeas or lentils instead of chicken for a vegetarian twist!
• Add different veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the sweetness: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener if you prefer a sweeter curry.
• Adjust spice levels: Add more chili powder if you like it spicy or skip it altogether for a milder flavor.

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 chopped chili pepper along with salt. Sauté until the onion starts to soften and becomes aromatic—this usually takes about 2 minutes. This step is crucial; it helps build the base flavor of our curry!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Now it’s time to add the chicken! Spread it evenly in the pan and let it cook until slightly browned in spots. This browning adds depth to the flavor. Once browned, stir in minced garlic and grated ginger along with all those wonderful spices: curry powder, chili powder, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and garam masala if you’re using it. Cook until everything is well combined—about 1 minute will do.

Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Sweet Potatoes

Pour in your crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine all those lovely flavors. Then add in the sweet potatoes and coconut milk while scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring your curry mixture to a gentle boil before reducing it to simmering heat. Cover your pan and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Spinach & Finish Up

After simmering, check on your sweet potatoes—they should be fork-tender by now! Stir in your chopped spinach; cover again for about five minutes until it’s wilted down nicely. Finally, turn off the heat and drizzle in some fresh lemon juice along with chopped cilantro for that burst of freshness.

Serve your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry hot over rice or alongside flatbread garnished with a sprinkle more of cilantro if you like! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Creating the perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can be a breeze with just a few helpful hints! Here are some pro tips to elevate your cooking experience and ensure delicious results every time.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can enhance the flavor of your curry. If you have whole spices, consider grinding them just before use for maximum aroma and taste.

• Adjust the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less chili powder or pepper and gradually add more to your liking. This way, you can control the heat level without overwhelming the dish.

• Let it simmer: Allowing the curry to simmer longer helps develop deeper flavors. Don’t rush this step; let the ingredients meld together for a richer taste.

• Add veggies: Feel free to throw in additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and color. They complement the sweetness of sweet potatoes beautifully!

• Make it ahead: This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Prepare it in advance for an easy meal prep option during busy weeks.

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Serving Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is all about presentation and pairing! Here are some delightful ideas to make your meal shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds vibrant color but also enhances the flavor profile with its herbal notes.
• Sliced green onions: These can provide a nice crunch and mild onion flavor that brightens up each bite.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty touch, enhancing the dish’s freshness.

Side Dishes

• Fluffy basmati rice: This classic Indian accompaniment absorbs all the delicious curry sauce, making every bite satisfying.
• Naan or flatbread: Soft naan or any type of flatbread is perfect for scooping up curry and adds a comforting element to your meal.
• Cucumber raita: A yogurt-based dip made with grated cucumber, mint, and spices offers a refreshing contrast to the rich curry flavors.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: Lightly steamed greens add a nutritious crunch and balance out the meal’s richness while bringing bright colors to your plate.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Chicken Sweet Potato Curry! With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that friends and family will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also makes a great option for busy weeknights. Here are some tips on how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious curry.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let the curry cool before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Portion out the curry into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date for easy tracking.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember that sweet potatoes may become softer when thawed.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat your curry on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions; cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Add a splash of coconut milk or water if it looks too thick after reheating.

FAQs

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

Can I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry in advance?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep as the flavors develop beautifully overnight. You can enjoy it fresh or save leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

This curry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or flatbreads like naan or roti. A side of simple cucumber salad can also add a refreshing crunch!

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

To control spice levels, you can reduce or omit the chili pepper and use mild curry powder. Alternatively, you can add more spice according to your preference!

Can I use other vegetables in Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas. Just add them during cooking based on their cooking time to ensure everything is perfectly tender.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this sumptuous Chicken Sweet Potato Curry at home! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor that’s sure to comfort you after a long day. Enjoy sharing this meal with family or friends, or savor it all by yourself—you deserve it! Happy cooking!