Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up on busy weeknights, this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is just what you need! This recipe has become a staple in my home because it combines tender chicken and sweet potatoes in a creamy, spiced sauce that fills the kitchen with the most delightful aroma. Seriously, it’s like your favorite Indian takeout but made right at home—and trust me, it’s much simpler than you might think!

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual gathering, this curry fits the bill perfectly. It’s nutritious, comforting, and absolutely bursting with flavor. Plus, it all comes together in one pot—making clean-up a breeze! Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just one pot and straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it appealing to both kids and adults.
• Healthy comfort food: Packed with wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes and spinach, it’s as nourishing as it is tasty.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch for leftovers or freeze some for those days when cooking feels like too much effort.
• Deliciously rich flavors: Each bite is an explosion of spices that will leave you craving more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a dish that warms the soul. You might already have many of these staples in your pantry!

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 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1.5 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

The beauty of this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Substitute chicken thighs with chickpeas or firm tofu for a plant-based option.
• Change up the veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Adjust the spice level: Keep it mild by omitting the chili powder or ramp up the heat with an extra serrano pepper.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some Greek yogurt at the end for an extra layer of creaminess.

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 along with salt. Sauté until the onion starts to soften—this usually takes about 2 minutes. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out the sweetness of the onion and allows those lovely flavors to infuse into your curry.

Step 2: Add Spices and Chicken

Next, add the chicken pieces to the pan in an even layer. Cook them while stirring occasionally until they’re slightly browned in spots. Then stir in garlic, ginger, curry powder, chili powder, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and garam masala if using. Cook everything together while stirring constantly until each piece of chicken is coated with those beautiful spices—this should only take about a minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in your crushed tomatoes and give everything a good stir to combine! Then add those sweet potato chunks along with coconut milk. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of your pan—these little nuggets pack tons of flavor! Bring your curry to a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer. Cover with a lid and let it cook gently for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

After about 15 minutes of simmering and occasional stirring, taste your curry! Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Then add chopped spinach into the pot; cover again and let it cook until wilted—this should take around another 5 minutes. The sweet potatoes should be fork-tender by now.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Finally, turn off the heat! Drizzle in some fresh lemon juice to brighten up those flavors before stirring in cilantro. Serve hot over rice or with flatbread—don’t forget an extra sprinkle of cilantro on top if you like!

Enjoy this delicious Chicken Sweet Potato Curry with your loved ones; I guarantee it’s going to become one of your go-to recipes!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Cooking can be an adventure, and with these simple tips, your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry will turn out even more delicious!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor of the curry significantly. If you can, buy whole spices and grind them just before cooking for a more aromatic dish.

• Adjust the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less chili powder or omit the serrano pepper. You can always add more heat later, but it’s hard to take it away once it’s in!

• Choose the right chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe as they stay juicy and tender during cooking. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, you can use them too; just be mindful not to overcook.

• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the curry to simmer gently helps develop its flavors. Covering the pan retains moisture and ensures that the sweet potatoes become perfectly tender.

• Make it ahead: This curry tastes even better the next day! Make a batch in advance and store it in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week. Just reheat it gently on the stove.

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Servicing this delightful dish is all about adding those finishing touches that elevate your meal from good to spectacular. Here are some ideas!

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top right before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
• Lime wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime adds a bright acidity that complements the richness of the curry beautifully.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy extra heat, offer chili flakes at the table so everyone can customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice is a classic pairing that perfectly absorbs the creamy sauce of the curry.

• Naan or flatbread: Soft naan or any flatbread is wonderful for scooping up every last bit of curry. Plus, it’s great for dipping!

• Cucumber raita: A cooling cucumber raita made with yogurt (or coconut yogurt) balances out the warmth of spices in your curry and adds a refreshing crunch.

• Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans add extra nutrition and color to your plate without overpowering the dish.

Enjoy creating this delicious Chicken Sweet Potato Curry and let your kitchen fill with delightful aromas! It’s sure to become a family favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal throughout the week. Preparing it in advance means you can savor those rich flavors without the fuss on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the curry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label and date your container for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion out the cooled curry into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Ensure to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick after reheating.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common ones about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry with other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or kale. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How spicy is this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can use less chili powder or omit the serrano/jalapeño pepper for a milder version.

What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

This curry pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or flatbreads like naan or pita. You can also enjoy it on its own as a hearty dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl brimming with flavor and goodness. Whether you’re sharing it with family or saving it for yourself during a busy week, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish!