Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

This luxurious Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a delightful one-pot meal that brings the rich, aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine into your kitchen. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish combines tender chicken and sweet potatoes in a creamy coconut sauce. It’s not only filling but also nutritious, making it an ideal choice for various occasions—whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish can be made in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Aromatic: The blend of spices creates a rich and comforting flavor that rivals your favorite Indian restaurant.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and vitamins from chicken and sweet potatoes, this curry supports a balanced diet.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice or with flatbread for a satisfying meal tailored to your preferences.
• One-Pan Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is quick and easy.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan with lid: This allows for even cooking while trapping moisture, which helps create a creamy curry texture.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient cutting of vegetables and meat.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry includes the following ingredients:

• 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 one (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1.5 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)

How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Step 1: Heat the Oil

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

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken to the pan in an even layer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly browned.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Spices

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

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes

Pour in the chopped tomatoes and stir to combine thoroughly with the chicken mixture.

Step 5: Add Sweet Potatoes and Coconut Milk

Add sweet potatoes and coconut milk while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring it to a gentle boil then reduce heat to simmer.

Step 6: Simmer

Cover the pan and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Stir in Spinach

Add chopped spinach to the pan. Cover again and cook until spinach is wilted and sweet potatoes are fork-tender—about another five minutes.

Step 8: Finish & Serve

Turn off heat; drizzle lemon juice over the curry then stir in chopped cilantro. Serve hot over rice or with flatbread garnished with extra cilantro if desired.

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Serving Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can elevate your dining experience, making it both satisfying and visually appealing. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement this rich dish.

With Rice

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice pairs perfectly with the creamy curry, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
• Coconut Rice: For a tropical twist, try coconut rice which adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the dish.

With Flatbread

• Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy naan is ideal for scooping up the curry, making each bite a treat.
• Roti or Chapati: These whole wheat flatbreads offer a healthy alternative while providing a wholesome texture.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro: Garnishing your curry with fresh cilantro adds brightness and freshness to every bite.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

Accompanied by Yogurt

• Plain Yogurt: A dollop of plain yogurt helps balance the spices in the curry while adding creaminess.
• Raita: A cucumber raita offers a cooling contrast to the heat of the curry, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.

How to Perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Perfecting your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry takes just a few extra steps to ensure it’s bursting with flavor. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect dish.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance flavor over pre-ground ones, giving your curry a vibrant taste.
• Adjust Spice Level: Taste as you go; add more chili powder or fresh peppers if you prefer a spicier dish.
• Cook Slowly: Letting the curry simmer longer allows flavors to meld beautifully, creating a richer taste.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and color.
• Serve Hot: Curry tastes best when served hot; keep it warm before serving for optimal enjoyment.
• Experiment with Proteins: While chicken is delicious, swapping in turkey or even beef can give it new dimensions.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can enhance the meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with diced cucumbers and lemon juice complements the richness of the curry.
2. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower adds a hearty element without overpowering the main dish.
3. Mango Chutney: This sweet and tangy condiment balances out the spice of the curry beautifully.
4. Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry: A quick stir-fry of seasonal vegetables provides crunch and color on your plate.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and extra protein while soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
6. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as an unexpected but comforting pairing with curry’s bold flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.

• Using the wrong type of chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for tenderness. Chicken breasts can dry out.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt and spices to ensure a well-balanced flavor throughout.
• Overcooking sweet potatoes: Cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking. Check for doneness with a fork at the 15-minute mark.
• Skipping the coconut milk: This ingredient adds creaminess and richness. Don’t omit it or substitute with low-fat versions.
• Forgetting fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro adds brightness to the curry. Always garnish before serving for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Make sure to leave some space in the container as the curry will expand when frozen.

Reheating Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot. Use a microwave-safe bowl.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry.

How do I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry spicier?

To increase the spice level, add more serrano or jalapeño peppers and use a spicier chili powder. Adjust based on your heat preference.

Can I use other vegetables in Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Is Chicken Sweet Potato Curry healthy?

Yes, this dish is packed with nutrients from chicken and sweet potatoes, making it a wholesome meal option that is both delicious and satisfying.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of Chicken Sweet Potato Curry.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners and offers flavors that rival your favorite takeout!