Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s ready in no time, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and sweet potatoes simmered together with fragrant spices. It’s one of those dishes that makes your home smell incredible while nourishing your body and soul. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this curry is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. You might even have most of the ingredients on hand! It’s not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients and warmth. Trust me—once you try this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple preparation: Most of the work happens in one pot! Just chop, sauté, and simmer.
• Family-friendly flavors: The balance of spices makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and reheat for quick lunches or dinners.
• Ultra-creamy goodness: The coconut milk adds richness that makes this curry feel indulgent.
• Customizable ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies or proteins based on what you have!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a breeze! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that create an unforgettable flavor combination.

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 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 its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast instead of thighs, or try chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add different veggies: Stir in some bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
• Adjust the spice level: If you like it spicy, add extra chili powder or fresh peppers; if not, reduce the amount.
• Try different grains: Serve over rice, quinoa, or even with warm naan for a delightful twist.

How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the oil in a large sauté pan that has a lid over medium-high heat. Add the onion, chili pepper (Serrano or jalapeño), and salt. Sauté until the onion starts to soften—about 2 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your curry!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken in an even layer and cook until slightly browned in spots. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Browning adds depth to our dish!

Step 3: Spice It Up

Stir in garlic, ginger, curry powder, chili powder, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and garam masala (if using). Cook everything together until the chicken is coated in fragrant spices—about 1 minute. This step elevates your curry from good to fantastic!

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Sweet Potatoes

Pour in the chopped tomatoes and mix well. Then add sweet potatoes and coconut milk while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these bits are packed with flavor! Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally. Taste as you go—add more salt and pepper if needed! Once sweet potatoes are fork-tender, stir in baby spinach until wilted.

Step 6: Final Touches

Turn off the heat and drizzle in lemon juice before folding in chopped cilantro. Serve hot over rice or with flatbread garnished with more cilantro if desired! Enjoy every bite of your delicious Chicken Sweet Potato Curry with family or friends!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Cooking can be a joy when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your curry. When possible, opt for whole spices and grind them just before use to unlock their full aroma and taste.

• Adjust the heat level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less chili powder or omit the serrano pepper. You can always add more later if you desire an extra kick!

• Add veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added texture and nutrition. They will complement the sweetness of the sweet potatoes beautifully.

• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the curry to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting time lets all the flavors mingle together for a richer taste experience.

• Make it ahead: This curry tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge; just reheat gently before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Serving this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is all about enhancing its deliciousness and making it visually appealing. Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds a burst of color but also brings a refreshing finish to each bite.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their curry, enhancing its brightness.
• Toasted coconut flakes: For a tropical twist, sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice is the perfect base for this curry, soaking up all those rich flavors while providing a comforting contrast.

• Naan bread: Soft and pillowy naan is ideal for scooping up the creamy curry. It’s a must-have side that complements Indian-inspired dishes beautifully.

• Cucumber raita: A simple cucumber raita made with yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt) helps cool down the spice levels while adding a creamy element that pairs wonderfully with curry.

• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that complements the soft textures of the sweet potatoes and chicken in your curry.

Enjoy your cooking adventure! This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry not only nourishes but also brings warmth and joy to any dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Here’s how you can keep your delicious curry fresh.

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 down, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, avoid freezing with any garnishes like cilantro or spinach.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful dish:

Can I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. The rest of the ingredients remain the same!

What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

This curry pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or naan bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor!

How long does Chicken Sweet Potato Curry last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 4 days. Just reheat and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry as comforting and delicious as I do! It’s a wonderful dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. Don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out – happy cooking!