Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil is a dish that brings together flavors and health benefits in perfect harmony. The luscious coconut milk combined with turmeric gives the chicken a lovely golden color and enhances the overall richness. Sweet potatoes add a wonderful sweetness and earthy flavor, while crispy shallots on top provide a satisfying crunch. It’s a delightful dish that’s not only nourishing but also visually appealing. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a quiet night at home, this recipe stands out as a comforting yet exotic meal.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil
This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, and here’s why you’ll love it:
- Flavor Explosion: The creamy coconut and aromatic turmeric blend creates a taste that’s both comforting and exotic.
- Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: This meal incorporates chicken for protein, sweet potatoes for fiber and vitamins, and turmeric, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish will impress your family and guests alike, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Versatile & Adaptable: Whether you are vegan, gluten-free, or following any other dietary plan, this dish can be modified to fit your needs.

Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil is a comforting, flavorful dish that blends the creaminess of coconut milk with warm turmeric spice. Juicy chicken thighs and tender sweet potatoes are complemented by crispy fried shallots and fresh herbs for a vibrant, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley), for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
- Chopped chilies or hot sauce (optional)
- Additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and turmeric powder.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs until golden on both sides (about 3–4 minutes per side), then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sweet potatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the coconut milk and return the chicken thighs to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and sweet potatoes are tender.
- While the dish bakes, heat the remaining vegetable oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add thinly sliced shallots and fry until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
- Top with crispy shallots and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with lime wedges and hot sauce or chilies if desired.
Notes
- Use boneless or skinless chicken thighs if preferred, adjusting cook time accordingly.
- Make it spicier by adding chili powder or hot sauce to the coconut milk.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sweet potatoes and sauce
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: coconut turmeric chicken, sweet potatoes, crispy shallot oil, gluten free dinner, turmeric recipe, fusion chicken dish
Ingredients You’ll Need for Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil:
Essential Ingredients:
- 4 Chicken Thighs: The thighs are juicy and flavorful, providing the perfect base for this dish.
- 1 Can Coconut Milk: This adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness, creating a rich sauce.
- 1 Tablespoon Turmeric Powder: Turmeric gives the chicken a warm golden hue and is known for its health benefits.
- 2 Sweet Potatoes: Peeled and diced, sweet potatoes offer sweetness and texture.
- 2 Shallots: Thinly sliced, shallots contribute a mild flavor and crunch.
- 1/4 Cup Vegetable Oil: Useful for frying the shallots and coating the sweet potatoes.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
- Fresh Herbs for Garnish (Optional): Herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a fresh touch before serving.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Lime Wedges: For a zesty kick, serve with lime wedges on the side.
- Chilies or Hot Sauce: If you enjoy some heat, add chopped chilies or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Other Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
How to Make Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the coconut milk and turmeric powder. Whisk them together until well mixed. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the turmeric-coconut mixture. Cover the bowl and let this marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, marinating it for a few hours or overnight will deepen the flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken and sweet potatoes will cook evenly and properly.
Step 3: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the sweet potatoes. In a large baking dish, combine the diced sweet potatoes with a little salt and vegetable oil. Toss them together to coat the sweet potatoes evenly. This will help them roast beautifully while they cook.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
After the chicken has marinated, place the chicken thighs on top of the sweet potatoes in the baking dish. Make sure to pour any leftover marinade over the chicken for extra flavor.
Step 5: Bake
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Prepare the Crispy Shallots
While the chicken and sweet potatoes are baking, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced shallots. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once done, remove the shallots from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Serve
Once the chicken and sweet potatoes have finished baking, remove them from the oven. Plate the chicken and sweet potatoes, then drizzle with the crispy shallot oil from the skillet. For an extra pop of flavor and color, garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve this dish immediately, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil
This Coconut Turmeric Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and styles. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Steamed Green Veggies: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus can be great options to add a crunch and a pop of color on the plate.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce and make the meal more filling.
Tropical Salad: A fresh salad with mango, avocado, and lime dressing can bring a refreshing balance to the richness of the chicken.
Naan or Gluten-Free Bread: Serve with warm naan or gluten-free bread to create a delightful dipping experience.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil
Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs: If you prefer even more flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs, as they tend to stay juicier during cooking.
Do Not Rush the Marination: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it becomes. If you can, let it sit in the fridge overnight.
Crispy Shallots: Keep an eye on the shallots while frying, as they can burn quickly. Stir frequently and remove them as soon as they turn golden brown.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of turmeric or add spices like cumin or paprika for additional flavor.
Check for Doneness: Always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Easy Variations for Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil
Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and brown them in the skillet. The cooking method remains the same.
Different Vegetables: Try using butternut squash instead of sweet potatoes, or mix in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Added Crunch: For extra texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews before serving.
Flavor Infusion: Add ginger or garlic alongside the marinated chicken for a more robust flavor profile.
Curry Twist: Incorporate curry powder in addition to turmeric for a spicier variant.
Storage Tips to Store Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil
If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), here are some tips for storing this dish:
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to preserve it for longer, you can freeze the chicken and sweet potatoes in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing. It can last for about 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen and heat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Conclusion
Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil is truly a dish that ticks all the boxes: it’s flavorful, healthy, and easy to prepare. With accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a comforting meal that will delight everyone at your table. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try your hand at some variations, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
FAQs About Coconut Turmeric Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Shallot Oil
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast. Just keep in mind that breasts cook quicker, so adjust the baking time as needed.
2. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
Marinating adds flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it and still have a tasty dish.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and bake it just before serving, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
4. What can I substitute for coconut milk?
You can use almond milk, but be aware that it will not provide the same creamy texture or flavor.
5. How do I make it spicier?
You can add fresh chilies, chili powder, or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the coconut milk marinade for some extra heat!
With this recipe and guide in hand, you’re set to create a delicious, mouthwatering meal that will bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
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