Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug, then this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is just what you need. This dish comes together effortlessly in one pot and uses mostly pantry staples, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The rich, creamy flavors make it taste like your favorite Indian takeout, but it’s so simple to prepare at home!

This recipe has quickly become a favorite in our household. It’s not only packed with nutrition from the sweet potatoes and spinach but also bursting with spices that create the most delightful aroma while it cooks. You’ll want to make this again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Save time on cleanup! Everything cooks in one pot, making dinner a breeze.
• Quick Prep: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious curry ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and mild flavor—it’s a great way to introduce them to new spices!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers for lunch all week long.
• Flavorful & Nutritious: Packed with wholesome ingredients that are good for you without skimping on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Chicken Sweet Potato Curry! Most of these items you might already have in your kitchen.

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 a 28-ounce can)
• 1 1/2 pounds (about 2 medium) 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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have at hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chickpeas or lentils instead of chicken for a vegetarian option that’s just as hearty.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the spice level: Adjust the amount of chili pepper to suit your family’s spice tolerance—keep it mild or kick it up!
• Try different herbs: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, fresh parsley works beautifully as a garnish too.

How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and chili pepper along with salt. Sauté until the onion starts to soften—this usually takes about two minutes. This step is crucial because it builds the base flavor for your curry!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, add the chicken pieces evenly across the pan. Cook them while stirring occasionally until they begin to brown slightly. This adds depth and richness to your dish that you’ll love!

Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, curry powder, chili powder, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and garam masala if you’re using it. Cook everything together for about a minute until fragrant—this step helps release all those lovely spices into your dish. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes and give it a good stir.

Step 4: Include Sweet Potatoes and Coconut Milk

Now it’s time to add in those sweet potato cubes along with coconut milk. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—those bits are packed with flavor! Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Finish Off

After simmering, taste your curry and adjust seasoning if necessary with more salt or pepper. Toss in the chopped spinach next—cover again until it’s wilted down within about five minutes. Finally, turn off the heat and drizzle with lemon juice before stirring in cilantro for freshness.

Serve this delightful Chicken Sweet Potato Curry hot over rice or with flatbread on the side. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Creating the perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is all about those little touches that elevate your dish. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your curry turns out fabulous!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices deliver more flavor than pre-ground versions. Consider grinding your spices just before cooking for a more aromatic experience.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder curry, start with less chili powder and adjust to taste. Each pepper varies in heat, so it’s best to tailor it to your preference!

• Don’t skip the simmer: Allowing the curry to simmer not only helps the flavors meld beautifully but also softens the sweet potatoes perfectly, making every bite deliciously creamy.

• Add greens at the end: Adding spinach towards the end of cooking preserves its vibrant color and nutrients, ensuring you get a healthy boost along with that rich flavor.

• Experiment with protein: If you’re looking for variety, try swapping the chicken for chickpeas or lentils for a plant-based version that’s equally satisfying!

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Serving this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is as delightful as making it! With just a few thoughtful additions, you can impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Lime wedges: Offering lime wedges on the side adds a zesty kick that complements the richness beautifully.
• Sliced green onions: Finely sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and crunch that contrast nicely with the creamy curry.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: This fragrant rice is perfect for soaking up all those delicious curry juices. Cook it simply with water and a pinch of salt for an ideal pairing.
• Naan bread: Soft and pillowy naan is wonderful for scooping up the curry, making every bite even more enjoyable.
• Cucumber raita: A cooling cucumber raita made with yogurt (or a non-dairy alternative) balances the heat from the spices while adding creaminess.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with fresh veggies provides texture and additional nutrition, enhancing your meal without overshadowing the star dish.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Sweet Potato Curry with these serving suggestions for an unforgettable dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights, ensuring you always have a nutritious meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the curry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion the curry into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to date the containers!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed to loosen it up.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated evenly.

FAQs

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

Can I use other vegetables in Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas based on your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry spicier?

To add more heat to your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry, increase the amount of serrano or jalapeño pepper used, or incorporate extra chili powder. Adjust to your spice tolerance!

What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

This curry pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or flatbreads like naan. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this luxurious Chicken Sweet Potato Curry as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that fills your home with amazing aromas and flavors. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep for busy days ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to get creative with it—happy cooking!