This Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting ingredients in one pot. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe combines the warmth of Indian spices with the sweetness of potatoes, creating an experience that rivals your favorite takeout. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this curry is sure to impress with its creamy texture and vibrant taste.

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 Vegetables
- For Garnish
- How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
- Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Step 3: Add Spices & Aromatics
- Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes & Sweet Potatoes
- Step 5: Final Touches
- Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
- With Rice
- With Flatbread
- With Salads
- Garnished with Herbs
- 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 vegetarian?
- What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
- How spicy is this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
- How long does it take to cook Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: This recipe is made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Rich Flavor: The blend of spices creates a savory and aromatic dish that will satisfy your cravings.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with chicken, sweet potatoes, and spinach, this curry is both healthy and filling.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or with flatbread for a complete meal.
- Adjustable Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of pepper used.
Tools and Preparation
To make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry efficiently, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large sauté pan with lid
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large sauté pan with lid: A must-have for even cooking and retaining moisture while simmering.
- Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of chicken and vegetables for consistent cooking.
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 Vegetables
- 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
For Garnish
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish (optional)

How to Make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Heat the oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion, serrano or jalapeño pepper, and salt. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion starts to soften.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken in an even layer to the pan. Cook while stirring occasionally until it’s slightly browned in spots.
Step 3: Add Spices & Aromatics
Stir in the garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and black pepper. Cook while stirring constantly for about 1 minute until all chicken pieces are coated in spices.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes & Sweet Potatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Add sweet potatoes and coconut milk while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5: Final Touches
Taste your curry and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in spinach; cover and cook another 5 minutes until wilted.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Turn off heat; drizzle lemon juice over curry and stir in chopped cilantro before serving hot over rice or with flatbread garnished with extra cilantro if desired.
How to Serve Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
Serving Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is easy, and it can be adapted to fit your dining style. This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, enhancing its rich flavors and creamy texture.
With Rice
- Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice absorbs the curry’s sauce perfectly.
- Coconut Rice: Add a tropical twist by cooking rice in coconut milk for extra flavor.
With Flatbread
- Naan: Soft, pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up the curry.
- Roti: Whole wheat roti offers a healthier option that complements the dish well.
With Salads
- Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based salad that balances the spices in the curry.
- Kachumber Salad: A refreshing mix of diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions for a crunchy contrast.
Garnished with Herbs
- Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color to each serving.
- Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
How to Perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
Achieving the perfect Chicken Sweet Potato Curry involves attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions for an outstanding dish every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavors significantly over dried ones.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize your spice level by altering the amount of serrano pepper or chili powder.
- Experiment with Spices: Try adding different spices like cardamom or cinnamon for unique flavor profiles.
- Let it Simmer: Allowing the curry to simmer longer develops deeper flavors—don’t rush this step!
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking to ensure perfect seasoning before serving.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy this dish immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
To elevate your meal, consider pairing Chicken Sweet Potato Curry with some delightful side dishes. These options will complement the flavors while adding variety to your plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutritional value without overpowering flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-rich quinoa salad with veggies can enhance your meal’s health benefits.
- Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower offers a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the curry.
- Chickpea Salad: A zesty chickpea salad provides added protein and fiber while being refreshingly tangy.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is great for scooping up curry sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
- Fruit Chaat: A sweet fruit chaat can cleanse your palate between bites of spicy curry, balancing flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chicken Sweet Potato Curry can be simple, but here are some mistakes to steer clear of.
- Under-seasoning the dish: Not adding enough spices can lead to bland flavor. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality canned tomatoes or coconut milk can affect the overall taste. Opt for high-quality brands for the best results.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Aim for juicy, tender pieces by monitoring cooking time closely.
- Skipping the aromatics: Neglecting garlic, ginger, or onions will lessen the flavor depth. These ingredients are essential for a rich curry experience.
- Not letting it simmer: Rushing through the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow time for all ingredients to meld beautifully.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Sweet Potato Curry in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
- Place cooled curry in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering with a lid. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
- Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken Sweet Potato Curry vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I serve with Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
Serve this curry over rice, quinoa, or with naan bread for a complete meal.
How spicy is this Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference by modifying or omitting the serrano pepper.
How long does it take to cook Chicken Sweet Potato Curry?
The total time for prep and cooking is around 40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is not only delicious but also versatile. It allows for many customization options, whether you want to change up the protein or add more vegetables. This one-pot dish promises rich flavors that will surely satisfy your cravings!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Chicken Sweet Potato Curry
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Chicken Sweet Potato Curry is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the warmth of Indian spices to your kitchen. This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and creamy coconut milk for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With its rich flavor and nutritious ingredients, this curry rivals your favorite takeout while being easy to prepare at home. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s customizable for spice levels and serving options, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 serrano pepper, finely diced
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
- 2–3 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1.5 pounds sweet potatoes, cubed
- 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk
- 3 cups baby spinach
Instructions
- Heat coconut oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and serrano pepper; sauté until softened.
- Add chicken and cook until lightly browned.
- Stir in garlic, ginger, curry powder, and other spices; cook for about a minute.
- Mix in crushed tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and coconut milk. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Stir in spinach; cover and cook an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper; serve hot over rice or with flatbread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg