Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious dish to bring warmth to your weeknight dinners, let me introduce you to my beloved Chicken Sweet Potato Curry. This recipe is a delightful blend of spices and wholesome ingredients that will fill your kitchen with amazing aromas. It’s one of those meals that can turn an ordinary weeknight into something special, making it perfect for busy evenings or family gatherings.

What I love most about this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is how easy it is to prepare. With just one pot and a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a creamy, rich meal that rivals any takeout. Plus, it’s packed with nutrition and flavor, making it a go-to favorite in my home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot wonder: This curry comes together in just one pan, meaning fewer dishes to wash up afterward!
• Nutritious and hearty: With tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and fresh spinach, this dish is not only filling but also full of vitamins.
• Family-friendly delight: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors and creamy texture – a sure hit at the dinner table!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can easily prep this curry ahead of time or even freeze leftovers for future meals.
• Customizable goodness: Feel free to switch up the veggies or protein based on what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Chicken Sweet Potato Curry! Most of these items are likely already in your pantry, making this recipe an easy choice for dinner.

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 to 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 (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 (45g) 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! Here are some ideas to customize it based on your preferences:

• Swap the protein: Use chickpeas or lentils instead of chicken for a plant-based version that’s still hearty.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more serrano pepper or include some cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Change the base: Serve over quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different twist!

How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Adding diced onions and chopped chili pepper along with salt creates a flavorful base as they sauté until softened. This step helps release their natural sweetness which enhances the overall flavor of the curry.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Once the onions are translucent, add your chicken pieces in an even layer. Cook them until they’re slightly browned – this not only adds depth to the flavor but also helps seal in moisture.

Step 3: Spice It Up!

Now it’s time to get aromatic! Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, chili powder, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and garam masala if you’re using it. Cooking these spices just until fragrant ensures their flavors bloom throughout the dish.

Step 4: Combine with Tomatoes and Sweet Potatoes

Pour in your crushed tomatoes and give everything a good stir before adding bite-sized sweet potatoes along with creamy coconut milk. Scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan adds even more flavor! Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce it to simmer.

Step 5: Finish with Greens

After about 15 minutes—stirring occasionally—check if your sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Now toss in those lovely greens! Cover again so they wilt perfectly into this beautiful curry.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, drizzle some fresh lemon juice over your creation and fold in chopped cilantro for brightness. Serve hot over rice or with flatbread; don’t forget to garnish with extra cilantro if desired! Enjoy every comforting bite of your homemade Chicken Sweet Potato Curry!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Making this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a breeze, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices dramatically enhance the flavor of your curry. If possible, buy whole spices and grind them just before cooking for maximum aroma and taste.

• Customize the heat level: Adjust the amount of serrano or jalapeño pepper based on your heat preference. This allows you to cater to different palates, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish.

• Pre-cook sweet potatoes: If you’re short on time, consider microwaving the sweet potato pieces for a few minutes before adding them to the curry. This helps them cook faster in the sauce without losing their texture.

• Let it simmer longer: If you have extra time, allowing the curry to simmer for 30 minutes instead of 20 can deepen the flavors even more. Just make sure to stir occasionally and add a splash of water if it gets too thick.

• Make it ahead: This curry tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Serving Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is all about presentation and creating a complete meal experience that is both satisfying and delightful. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the curry.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice just before eating brightens up the dish and balances its creaminess.
• Sriracha or chili flakes: For those who love an extra kick, drizzle a bit of Sriracha or sprinkle chili flakes on top for added heat.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice is perfect for soaking up the luxurious sauce of your curry. Its subtle nuttiness pairs beautifully with spiced dishes.
• Naan bread: Soft and pillowy naan is ideal for dipping into the creamy curry sauce, making every bite enjoyable. You can find various types like garlic or whole wheat.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative) offers a cooling contrast to the warm spices of the curry.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables such as cauliflower or bell peppers can complement your meal with their caramelized flavor and add an extra serving of veggies.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry will not only be delicious but also visually appealing and satisfying! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic choice for meal prep! Making a big batch ahead of time will save you time during busy weeknights while ensuring you have a hearty, 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 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion out the cooled curry into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can add a splash of coconut milk or water if it appears too thick during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Sweet Potato Curry that might help you in your cooking journey!

Can I use other vegetables in my Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even peas for extra nutrition and flavor. Just adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose.

How can I make my Chicken Sweet Potato Curry spicier?

If you prefer more heat, simply add additional serrano or jalapeño peppers, or increase the amount of Indian red chili powder. Remember to taste as you go!

What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

This curry pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or warm flatbread. A side of fresh salad can also complement it well.

Can I prepare Chicken Sweet Potato Curry ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer. Check the sections above for details on storing and reheating.

Is Chicken Sweet Potato Curry healthy?

Definitely! With lean protein from chicken and nutritious sweet potatoes combined with spinach and spices, this dish is both filling and nourishing.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and richness into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it to family or enjoying it solo, this recipe is sure to please. Happy cooking!