A rich and flavorful Chicken Sweet Potato Curry combining tender chicken thighs with hearty sweet potatoes, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk. This one-pot dish is both comforting and vibrant, perfect for a wholesome family meal.
Author:Linda
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Total Time:55 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Indian-inspired
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut to bite-size pieces
1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish (optional)
Spices and Seasonings
2 tablespoons coconut oil or avocado oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated (or minced)
2 – 3 tablespoons curry powder
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 – 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Liquids
1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes or half of 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 can 13.5 oz / 400 ml full-fat unsweetened coconut milk
Instructions
Prepare the Base: Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut or avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and serrano or jalapeño pepper along with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken thigh pieces to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then add 2-3 tablespoons curry powder, 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and optionally 1 teaspoon garam masala. Stir well to coat the chicken and onion mixture evenly with spices.
Combine Tomatoes and Sweet Potatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the sweet potato pieces. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the sweet potatoes are submerged.
Simmer the Curry: Pour in the full-fat unsweetened coconut milk. Bring the curry to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Add Spinach and Finish: Stir in the roughly chopped baby spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted. Then, add 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice and chopped cilantro. Adjust salt if needed and remove from heat.
Serve: Garnish with additional cilantro if desired and serve hot with rice, naan, or your preferred side.
Notes
Adjust the heat by using serrano or jalapeño pepper based on your spice preference. Removing the seeds will reduce the heat.
Curry powder strength varies, start with 2 tablespoons and add more to taste.
The full-fat coconut milk gives the curry a creamy, rich texture. For a lighter version, use light coconut milk but expect less creaminess.
This dish can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.
For additional protein variation, chicken breasts can be used but thighs provide better moisture.