Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings the warmth and richness of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this one-pot meal combines tender chicken with sweet potatoes in a creamy coconut sauce. The vibrant spices create an irresistible aroma, making it a comforting dish that your family will love.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Curry Base
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For Finishing Touches
• How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
• Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
• Step 2: Brown the Chicken
• Step 3: Add Spices
• Step 4: Combine with Tomatoes
• Step 5: Incorporate Sweet Potatoes and Coconut Milk
• Step 6: Finish with Spinach
• Step 7: Add Lemon Juice and Cilantro
• How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
• Over Rice
• With Bread
• As a Salad
• How to Perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
• Reheating Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
• Can I customize Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
• How can I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry spicier?
• What should I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to follow and only requires one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful and Nutritious: Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors while benefiting from wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes and spinach.
• Versatile Meal: Serve over rice or with flatbread; this curry adapts well to suit your taste preferences.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat by modifying the amount of serrano pepper or jalapeño used.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch for leftovers that reheat beautifully throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smoother, gather the essential tools needed for this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating a delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan with a lid: This allows for even cooking and helps trap heat and moisture, resulting in tender chicken and soft sweet potatoes.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables, making prep quick and easy.

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 Base

• 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

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Sauce

• 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)

For Finishing Touches

• 3 cups (45 g) baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish (optional)

How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the oil in a large sauté pan with a lid over medium-high heat. Add the onion, serrano or jalapeño pepper, and salt. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion starts to soften.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken in an even layer. Cook while stirring occasionally until the chicken is slightly browned in spots.

Step 3: Add Spices

Stir in the garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and black pepper. Cook while stirring constantly for about 1 minute until the chicken is evenly coated in spices.

Step 4: Combine with Tomatoes

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

Step 5: Incorporate Sweet Potatoes and Coconut Milk

Add the sweet potatoes and coconut milk to the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Finish with Spinach

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt and pepper. Add spinach; cover again and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted.

Step 7: Add Lemon Juice and Cilantro

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

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Over Rice

• Basmati Rice: Light and fragrant, basmati rice pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the curry.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
• Coconut Rice: Infuse your rice with coconut milk for a tropical twist that complements the curry’s creaminess.

With Bread

• Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up the curry.
• Roti or Chapati: These unleavened flatbreads are a great way to enjoy every bit of the sauce.
• Pita Bread: Use pita for a fun, easy-to-handle option that’s perfect for dipping.

As a Salad

• Curry Salad Bowl: Serve over mixed greens with cucumbers and tomatoes for a refreshing contrast.
• Quinoa Salad: Combine with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a nutrient-packed meal.

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How to Perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Achieving the perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and produce will enhance the overall flavor profile of your curry.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat by modifying the amount of serrano pepper or chili powder according to your preference.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the curry to simmer longer will deepen flavors and improve texture.
• Experiment with Coconut Milk: If you prefer a creamier sauce, consider adding an extra can of coconut milk.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly tasting your dish while cooking helps ensure balanced seasoning.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro or lime juice adds brightness and freshness just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can complement its flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based condiment that balances the spice of the curry.
2. Mango Chutney: The sweetness of mango chutney enhances the savory notes of the curry.
3. Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower): This classic Indian dish adds more vegetables and flavors to your meal.
4. Samosas: Crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes or peas make for a delightful starter.
5. Vegetable Pakoras: Crunchy fritters made from chickpea flour and assorted vegetables are perfect for dipping in curry sauce.
6. Lentil Dal: A hearty lentil dish packed with protein complements the chicken nicely while adding more nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for tender, juicy pieces by watching the cooking time closely.

• Ignoring Spice Levels: Each curry powder is different in potency. Always taste and adjust spices as needed to get the flavor just right.

• Not Prepping Ingredients First: Failing to have all your ingredients ready can lead to uneven cooking. Prep everything in advance for a smoother cooking process.

• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro add vibrant flavor. Don’t skip them; they elevate the dish significantly!

• Using Low-Quality Coconut Milk: The quality of coconut milk affects creaminess. Opt for full-fat, unsweetened versions for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a creamy and flavorful dish made with chicken thighs and sweet potatoes simmered in aromatic spices and coconut milk.

Can I customize Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or adjust the spice level according to your preference.

How can I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry spicier?

Add more chili powder or include finely chopped fresh chilies during cooking for extra heat.

What should I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

This curry pairs well with rice, naan bread, or even quinoa for a healthy twist.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is not only rich and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to fit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—your family will love it!