Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Published:

by Sofia

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a delightful blend of flavors that makes for a perfect weeknight meal. It’s not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutritious ingredients that will satisfy the whole family. This one-pot dish is an excellent option for busy evenings, special gatherings, or when you’re just craving something cozy and comforting.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy Preparation: With just one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze after a delicious dinner.
  • Rich Flavors: The combination of spices creates a depth of flavor that rivals your favorite Indian takeout.
  • Nutrient-Dense: Featuring chicken and sweet potatoes, this curry is loaded with proteins and vitamins.
  • Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your liking by choosing how you prepare the serrano pepper.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, with flatbread, or even on its own!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large sauté pan with a lid
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large sauté pan with a lid: This allows for even cooking and helps retain moisture in your curry.
  • Sharp knife: A good knife speeds up prep time and ensures safety while cutting ingredients.

Ingredients

This luxurious, Indian-inspired curry is made in one pot using mostly pantry staples. Packed with creamy, rich flavors, this nutritious dish makes a fabulous weeknight dinner that rivals your favorite Indian takeout.

For the Curry

  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil or avocado oil
  • 1 red or yellow onion, diced
  • 1 serrano pepper or jalapeño, finely diced (see notes)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized 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 garam masala (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or half of a 28-ounce can)
  • 1 1/2 pounds (about 2 medium) sweet potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 (13.5 oz / 400 ml) can full-fat unsweetened coconut milk (see notes)
  • 3 cups (45 g) baby spinach, roughly chopped

For Garnish

  • 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish (optional)
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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 serrano/jalapeño pepper along with salt.
* Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion begins to soften.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs in an even layer in the pan.
* Cook while stirring occasionally until browned in spots.

Step 3: Add Spices and Aromatics

Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and black pepper.
* Cook while stirring constantly for about 1 minute until coated evenly with spices.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Incorporate Sweet Potatoes and Coconut Milk

Add sweet potatoes and coconut milk to the mixture.
* Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to simmer.
* Cover and cook for about 15 minutes until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your curry and adjust seasoning if necessary.
* Add chopped spinach and cover again for another 5 minutes until wilted.

Step 8: Serve Your Curry

Turn off heat and drizzle lemon juice into the curry.
Stir in chopped cilantro before serving hot over rice or flatbread with extra cilantro if desired.

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Serving Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your preferences. This dish pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors and creamy texture.

With Rice

  • Basmati Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, basmati rice absorbs the curry sauce perfectly.
  • Coconut Rice: Add an extra layer of flavor by cooking rice with coconut milk for a tropical twist.

With Flatbread

  • Naan: Soft and pillowy, naan is perfect for scooping up every last bit of the curry.
  • Roti: A whole wheat flatbread that is light and complements the dish beautifully.

With Vegetables

  • Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a nutritional boost and color contrast.
  • Roasted Cauliflower: Crispy roasted cauliflower brings an earthy flavor that pairs well with the curry.

As a Meal Prep

  • Containers: Pack portions in airtight containers for easy reheating during busy weekdays.
  • Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro just before serving for a burst of freshness.

How to Perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

To achieve the best version of Chicken Sweet Potato Curry, consider these helpful tips for enhancing flavors and textures.

  • Bold spices: Adjust spice quantities based on your preference. Don’t hesitate to add more curry powder for a deeper flavor.
  • Fresh ingredients: Use fresh ginger and garlic instead of powdered versions for maximum flavor impact.
  • Coconut milk variety: Full-fat coconut milk creates a creamier texture; however, light coconut milk can also work if you’re looking to reduce calories.
  • Sweet potato size: Cut sweet potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and tenderness throughout.
  • Simmering time: Allow the curry to simmer longer if you prefer thicker sauce; this will deepen the flavors even more.
  • Taste test: Always taste your curry before serving, adjusting salt or spice levels as needed for perfection.
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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

  1. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side that balances the heat from the curry.
  2. Mango Chutney: Adds a sweet and tangy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
  3. Poppadoms: These crispy lentil wafers add crunch and are perfect for dipping into the curry.
  4. Quinoa Salad: A healthy grain salad mixed with vegetables that provides a nutritious base alongside the curry.
  5. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles can cut through the richness of the dish, adding a zesty element.
  6. Garlic Bread: For something different, serve garlic bread as a fun way to scoop up your delicious curry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry, a few common mistakes can detract from its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

  • Skipping the spices: Not using enough spices can lead to a bland curry. Make sure to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences for a flavorful dish.
  • Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for tender pieces by monitoring cooking time closely.
  • Using low-quality coconut milk: Poor quality coconut milk can affect the creaminess of your curry. Opt for full-fat, unsweetened coconut milk for the best results.
  • Not adjusting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your curry flat. Always sample before serving and tweak as necessary.
  • Ignoring prep time for sweet potatoes: Cutting sweet potatoes too large may lead to uneven cooking. Chop them into smaller, uniform pieces for consistent tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Allow the curry to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

  • Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered in a dish for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
  • Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Sweet Potato Curry that might help you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

How spicy is Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

The spice level depends on the amount and type of pepper used. Adjust according to your heat preference.

What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

This curry pairs well with rice, naan, or any flatbread of your choice.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include veggies like bell peppers or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is not only rich and creamy but also versatile enough to cater to different tastes. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal that rivals takeout!


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Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Chicken Sweet Potato Curry


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  • Author: Sofia
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Description

Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is an irresistible one-pot dish that brings together tender chicken, hearty sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices for a comforting meal the whole family will love. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, offering a rich flavor profile that rivals your favorite Indian takeout. The creaminess from coconut milk combined with fresh ingredients makes this curry both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s easily customizable to fit your spice level and serving preferences—enjoy it over fluffy rice, with warm naan, or as a meal prep option for those hectic days.


Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 serrano pepper, diced
  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
  • 23 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1.5 pounds sweet potatoes, cubed
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 3 cups baby spinach

Instructions

  1. Heat coconut oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and serrano pepper; sauté until softened.
  3. Stir in chicken thighs; cook until browned.
  4. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, and remaining spices; cook for one minute.
  5. Mix in crushed tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and coconut milk; combine well.
  6. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce to a simmer; cover and cook for about 15 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
  7. Stir in baby spinach; cover again until wilted.
  8. Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with cilantro before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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