Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a delightful fusion of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this dish will impress everyone at the table. With its creamy texture and aromatic spices, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses mostly pantry staples, making it both convenient and delicious.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Main Ingredients
• For Garnish
• How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Add Spices
• Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes
• Step 5: Add Sweet Potatoes and Coconut Milk
• Step 6: Final Touches
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
• With Rice
• With Flatbread
• Garnished
• As a Bowl
• 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
• Can I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry ahead of time?
• What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?
• Is Chicken Sweet Potato Curry spicy?
• Can I use other meats in this recipe?
• How do I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry vegan?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: This chicken sweet potato curry requires only one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful & Nutritious: Packed with spices and wholesome ingredients, this dish is both tasty and healthy.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, with flatbread, or even as a filling for wraps—it’s versatile enough to suit your preferences.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by choosing your preferred pepper and controlling the spice level.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your chicken sweet potato curry efficiently, having the right tools can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan with lid: Essential for cooking everything evenly while keeping the flavors locked in.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in this curry.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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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 diced onion along with the serrano or jalapeño pepper and salt. Sauté them for about 2 minutes until the onion begins to soften.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs in an even layer. Cook while stirring occasionally until you see some browning on the chicken’s surface.

Step 3: Add Spices

Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and black pepper. Cook while stirring constantly for about 1 minute until all the chicken pieces are well-coated with these spices.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes

Pour in crushed tomatoes and mix everything together well.

Step 5: Add Sweet Potatoes and Coconut Milk

Introduce sweet potatoes and coconut milk into the pan. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your curry and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if necessary. Add chopped spinach on top; cover again to cook for another 5 minutes until spinach wilts down.

Step 7: Serve

Turn off the heat; drizzle lemon juice over your dish and stir in chopped cilantro. Serve hot over rice or with flatbread while garnishing with extra cilantro if desired. Enjoy your delicious chicken sweet potato curry!

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Serving Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can be a delightful experience, enhancing the flavors and presentation of this comforting dish. Here are some creative suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Rice

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is perfect for soaking up the rich curry sauce.
• Coconut Rice: Infuse your rice with coconut milk for a tropical twist that complements the dish.

With Flatbread

• Naan Bread: Soft and warm naan is ideal for scooping up the curry, adding a lovely texture.
• Roti: Whole wheat roti provides a healthier alternative and pairs well with the spices.

Garnished

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro for freshness and color.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with wedges to add a zesty kick when squeezed over the dish.

As a Bowl

• Curry Bowl: Serve in deep bowls, allowing guests to enjoy every last drop of sauce with their choice of sides.

How to Perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will enhance the flavor significantly compared to stale ones.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by controlling the amount of serrano or jalapeño peppers you add.
• Balance Flavors: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and sweetness with lemon juice or additional coconut milk for balance.
• Cook Evenly: Ensure chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking throughout the dish.
• Let it Rest: Allow your curry to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Store Wisely: If making ahead, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; flavors deepen over time!

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cucumber Raita: A refreshing yogurt-based side that cools down the spice of the curry.
2. Mango Chutney: Adds a sweet and tangy contrast that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
3. Papadam: Crispy lentil crackers provide a crunchy texture that’s fun to eat alongside curry.
4. Vegetable Samosas: These savory pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas make a delightful appetizer before diving into your curry.
5. Saag Paneer: Creamy spinach mixed with paneer adds an extra vegetarian option that pairs beautifully with chicken curry.
6. Pickled Vegetables: A tangy assortment of pickled veggies can enhance each bite, offering bursts of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry from good to great. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much spice: It’s easy to overdo spices, which can overpower the dish. Start with less and add more according to your taste.
• Neglecting the chicken’s browning: Failing to brown the chicken can result in a less flavorful curry. Ensure you cook it until lightly browned for depth.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste before serving! You may need extra salt or lemon juice to enhance flavors, so always adjust before final plating.
• Skipping the simmering step: Rushing through cooking can leave sweet potatoes undercooked. Allow proper simmering for tender veggies and rich flavors.
• Using low-quality coconut milk: The coconut milk quality impacts creaminess. Opt for full-fat, unsweetened versions for the best texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The Chicken Sweet Potato Curry remains good for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat while stirring occasionally until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry ahead of time?

You can prepare this curry ahead of time, as it actually tastes better after resting. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?

If you prefer, you can use butternut squash or regular potatoes as alternatives in your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry.

Is Chicken Sweet Potato Curry spicy?

The spice level is adjustable. Use milder peppers and less chili powder if you want a more gentle flavor.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! Chicken thighs are ideal, but you can also use chicken breasts or even turkey if preferred.

How do I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste. This dish makes for a comforting weeknight meal that everyone will love—give it a try!