Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a delightful dish that brings the warmth and richness of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this one-pot recipe combines tender chicken and sweet potatoes in a creamy coconut sauce, making it an ideal choice for family meals or entertaining guests. With its vibrant flavors and comforting aroma, this curry can easily become a favorite in your household.

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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 Sauce
• For Finishing Touches
• How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
• Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
• Step 2: Brown the Chicken
• Step 3: Add Spices
• Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes
• Step 5: Combine Sweet Potatoes & Coconut Milk
• Step 6: Finish with Spinach
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
• With Rice
• With Flatbread
• As a Bowl Meal
• Garnished Options
• 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
• How do I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry spicier?
• Can I use other vegetables in this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
• What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
• How long does it take to make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this easy-to-make dish that only requires one pot.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from sweet potatoes, it’s a wholesome meal option.
• Versatile Flavor: Adjust the spice level to your liking by varying the type of pepper you use.
• Freezable Leftovers: Make a larger batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later on.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure smooth preparation.

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: Ideal for cooking everything evenly and containing splatters while simmering.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables easier and safer.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate spice measurements for balanced flavors.

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
• 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)

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How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

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

Step 3: Add Spices

Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, ground cumin, turmeric powder, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly until all spices coat the chicken evenly.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes

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

Step 5: Combine Sweet Potatoes & Coconut Milk

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

Step 6: Finish with Spinach

Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Add chopped spinach on top; cover again and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted.

Step 7: Serve

Turn off heat; drizzle lemon juice over the top and 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

Serving Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can elevate your dining experience. This flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its taste and texture.

With Rice

• Basmati Rice: Light and fluffy, basmati rice absorbs the curry’s flavors perfectly.
• Brown Rice: A healthy alternative, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber to your meal.

With Flatbread

• Naan: Soft and pillowy, naan is perfect for scooping up the rich curry.
• Roti: This whole wheat flatbread is slightly crispy and complements the dish well.

As a Bowl Meal

• Curry Bowl: Serve the curry over a bed of quinoa or bulgur for a hearty bowl meal packed with nutrients.
• Salad Base: Add a layer of mixed greens, then top with curry for a fresh twist.

Garnished Options

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness and enhances the aromatic flavors of the curry.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice right before eating brings out all the flavors brilliantly.

How to Perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Getting your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry just right takes some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is bursting with flavor.

• Use fresh spices: Fresh spices have more potency. Check the expiration date on your spices for maximum flavor.
• Adjust spice levels: Start with less chili powder and adjust according to your heat preference. You can always add more!
• Cook chicken thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding other ingredients to avoid undercooked meat.
• Let it simmer longer: If time allows, let your curry simmer longer for deeper flavors. Just add extra coconut milk if needed.
• Balance acidity: A touch of sugar or honey can balance out the acidity from tomatoes if you find it too tangy.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to include additional veggies like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and color.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry enhances the overall experience. These sides complement the rich flavors nicely.

1. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based dip that balances the spice of the curry beautifully.
2. Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy, mango chutney adds a delightful contrast to savory dishes.
3. Pickled Red Onions: Crisp and tangy pickled onions provide an excellent crunch alongside creamy curries.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Adding steamed broccoli brings extra nutrients and a pop of color to your plate.
5. Spiced Lentils: Nutty lentils flavored with cumin make a protein-packed addition that pairs well with curries.
6. Poppadoms: Crispy poppadoms provide texture and are great for dipping into curry sauce.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with cilantro and lime brightens up the meal while enhancing its freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the right techniques can elevate your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using low-quality spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor. Always use new spices for the best taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry meat. Cook until just done for juicy results.
• Neglecting to taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for balanced flavors. Don’t wait until the end!
• Forgetting about texture: Ensure sweet potatoes are tender yet firm. Cut them evenly for consistent cooking.
• Skipping the garnish: A sprinkle of cilantro adds freshness and visual appeal. Don’t omit this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Sweet Potato Curry in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty ziplock bags.
• The curry can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry spicier?

You can add more serrano peppers or include extra chili powder during cooking for a kick.

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

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or peas based on your preference.

What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

Serve with rice, naan, or flatbread for a complete meal that complements the curry.

How long does it take to make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

Prep takes about 20 minutes, and cooking takes an additional 20 minutes, totaling around 40 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is not only delicious but also adaptable. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level. Try this easy recipe for a weeknight dinner that brings warmth and comfort to your table!

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