Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Indian cuisine to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this one-pot meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with rich, creamy flavors. With its nourishing ingredients and vibrant spices, it’s an excellent choice for family gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This curry requires minimal prep and can be cooked in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and coconut milk creates a luxurious taste that rivals your favorite Indian takeout.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean protein from chicken and vitamins from sweet potatoes and spinach, it’s a wholesome meal option.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice or with flatbread for a satisfying dinner that caters to different preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan with lid
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan with lid: Ideal for cooking everything evenly while allowing you to cover the dish to retain moisture.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables and meat, making prep fast and safe.
• Measuring spoons and cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing the flavors in your curry.

Ingredients

This luxurious Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is an Indian-inspired meal made in one pot with mostly pantry staples. It’s a fabulous weeknight dinner that is nutritious and filled with ultra-creamy, rich flavors that will taste as good as your favorite Indian takeout.

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 1 (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 that has a lid over medium-high heat.
* Add the diced onion, chili pepper, and salt.
* Sauté until the onion starts to soften, about 2 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken in an even layer.
* Cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly browned in spots.

Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in garlic, ginger, curry powder, chili powder, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and garam masala if using.
* Cook while stirring constantly until chicken is evenly coated in spices for about 1 minute.
* Pour in chopped tomatoes and stir to combine.

Step 4: Incorporate Sweet Potatoes and Coconut Milk

Add sweet potatoes along with coconut milk.
* Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
* Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then reduce to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the pan and simmer for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.
* Taste periodically; season with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Add Spinach

Add spinach to the mixture; cover again.
* Cook until spinach is wilted and sweet potatoes are fork-tender—around another five minutes.

Step 7: Finish Off the Dish

Turn off heat; drizzle lemon juice over the curry.
* Stir in chopped cilantro before serving hot over rice or flatbread garnished with more cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your hearty Chicken Sweet Potato Curry!

How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Serving Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can elevate your dining experience, making it feel special even on a weeknight. This dish is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes.

With Rice

• Basmati Rice – The aromatic quality of basmati rice complements the rich flavors of the curry.
• Coconut Rice – Cook rice with coconut milk for a tropical twist that enhances the curry’s creaminess.

With Flatbreads

• Naan Bread – Soft and fluffy, naan is perfect for scooping up the curry.
• Roti or Chapati – These whole grain options provide a healthy alternative to enjoy with your meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro Garnish – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color, brightening the dish.
• Green Onions – Chopped green onions can add a mild onion flavor and crunchy texture.

Accompanied by Yogurt

• Plain Yogurt – A dollop of yogurt can help balance the spices and add creaminess to each bite.
• Mint Yogurt Sauce – A refreshing mint yogurt sauce can enhance the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Perfecting your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry ensures every bite is deliciously satisfying. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience:

• Use Fresh Spices – Always opt for fresh ground spices for enhanced flavor; they make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Modify the amount of chili powder or peppers based on your heat preference to suit your taste.
• Let It Simmer – Allow the curry to simmer longer for deeper flavors; this helps meld all the ingredients beautifully.
• Experiment with Sweet Potatoes – Try different varieties like purple or Japanese sweet potatoes for unique flavors and colors.
• Incorporate Vegetables – Add more vegetables such as bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition and texture in your curry.
• Taste as You Go – Regularly taste your curry while cooking; adjust seasoning as needed for a perfectly balanced dish.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light dressing provides a crisp contrast.
2. Roasted Cauliflower – Seasoned roasted cauliflower offers a delightful crunch that balances the creamy curry.
3. Lentil Dal – A spiced lentil dish adds protein and pairs well with the curry’s rich flavors.
4. Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickles can cut through the richness of the curry, adding brightness to each bite.
5. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
6. Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs makes an excellent base that absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
7. Chickpea Salad – A hearty chickpea salad can act as a protein-rich side that complements the curry well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Using too much salt: It’s easy to over-salt your dish. Start with less and add more as needed during cooking.
• Skipping the marination: For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken with spices before adding it to the curry. This can add depth to your dish.
• Not using fresh spices: Old spices lose their potency. Always check the freshness of your spices for maximum flavor in the curry.
• Overcooking the sweet potatoes: If you cook them too long, they may become mushy. Check them frequently to ensure they remain tender yet intact.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality coconut milk or canned tomatoes can affect taste. Choose high-quality ingredients for a better overall flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Sweet Potato Curry in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
• It will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken Sweet Potato Curry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place curry in an oven-safe dish, and cover. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Place the curry in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Sweet Potato Curry that may help you.

Can I use other vegetables in Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas to customize your curry further.

How spicy is Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

The spiciness varies depending on how much chili pepper you use. Adjust it according to your preference!

What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

Serve it with rice, quinoa, or naan bread for a complete meal that’s satisfying and delicious.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan version of this curry.

How do I store leftovers of Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is not only rich and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels. Give it a try; it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner!