Creamy Coconut Curry Chickpea

Featured in: Family Comfort Meals

This vibrant dish blends tender sweet potatoes, protein-rich chickpeas, and fresh spinach in a creamy coconut sauce infused with mild curry spices. Cooked in a single skillet, it offers a balanced, comforting meal perfect for easy weeknight dining. The gentle simmer melds flavors beautifully, while fresh lime juice adds a bright finish. Garnish with cilantro and serve alongside rice or naan for a satisfying experience.

Updated on Sat, 14 Feb 2026 00:53:00 GMT
Creamy Coconut Curry Chickpea Skillet with Spinach and Sweet Potato: a vibrant one-pan vegan dinner packed with tender sweet potatoes, protein-rich chickpeas, and fresh spinach in a fragrant coconut curry sauce. Pin this
Creamy Coconut Curry Chickpea Skillet with Spinach and Sweet Potato: a vibrant one-pan vegan dinner packed with tender sweet potatoes, protein-rich chickpeas, and fresh spinach in a fragrant coconut curry sauce. | plumoven.com

Indulge in a bowl of pure comfort with this Creamy Coconut Curry Chickpea Skillet. Perfectly balanced with tender sweet potatoes, protein-rich chickpeas, and vibrant spinach, this one-pan vegan wonder is as nutritious as it is flavorful. It is the ultimate solution for a busy weeknight when you crave something exotic yet simple to prepare.

Creamy Coconut Curry Chickpea Skillet with Spinach and Sweet Potato: a vibrant one-pan vegan dinner packed with tender sweet potatoes, protein-rich chickpeas, and fresh spinach in a fragrant coconut curry sauce. Pin this
Creamy Coconut Curry Chickpea Skillet with Spinach and Sweet Potato: a vibrant one-pan vegan dinner packed with tender sweet potatoes, protein-rich chickpeas, and fresh spinach in a fragrant coconut curry sauce. | plumoven.com

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The combination of aromatic garlic, fresh ginger, and mild curry powder creates a fragrant base that transforms simple pantry staples into a gourmet dinner. As the sweet potatoes simmer in the luscious coconut milk, they become incredibly tender, creating a rich texture that pairs beautifully with the bite of the chickpeas.

Ingredients

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  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons mild curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1
Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Step 3
Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4
Add the sweet potato cubes, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables in the spices.
Step 5
Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 6
Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Step 7
Add the chickpeas and cook for another 5 minutes to heat through.
Step 8
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes, until wilted.
Step 9
Remove from heat and add lime juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 10
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Enjoy with rice or naan.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the sweet potatoes cook evenly, try to keep the cubes to a consistent half-inch size. Using full-fat coconut milk is highly recommended for that signature creamy consistency, though light coconut milk can be used for a lower-calorie version. Always check your spice blends to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.

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Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly versatile. You can add extra protein by tossing in cubed tofu or tempeh during the simmering stage. If you aren't a fan of spinach, feel free to substitute it with kale or Swiss chard; just keep in mind that heartier greens may need an extra minute or two to soften properly.

Serviervorschläge

For a complete and filling meal, serve this curry over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or nutty quinoa. A side of warm naan bread is also excellent for scooping up the flavorful coconut sauce. Don't forget the fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime to brighten the earthy flavors.

Pin this
| plumoven.com

Whether you're a long-time vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, this Creamy Coconut Curry Chickpea Skillet is sure to become a household favorite. It's warm, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy your homemade Indian-inspired feast!

Recipe FAQs

Can I substitute spinach with other greens?

Yes, kale or Swiss chard work well as alternatives and provide similar texture and nutrients.

How can I adjust the spice level?

Modify the cayenne pepper quantity or the amount of curry powder to suit your preferred heat intensity.

Is coconut oil necessary for this dish?

Coconut oil adds a subtle flavor complementing the curry, but vegetable oil can be used as a substitute if preferred.

What can I serve this dish with?

It pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or quinoa to soak up the rich coconut sauce.

Can I add more protein?

Adding cubed tofu or tempeh boosts protein while maintaining the dish’s texture and flavor.

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Creamy Coconut Curry Chickpea

Fragrant coconut curry with tender sweet potatoes, chickpeas, fresh spinach, and warm spices in one skillet.

Prep time
15 min
Time to cook
30 min
Total Duration
45 min
Created by Plum Oven Sophie Warren


Level of challenge Easy

Cuisine type Indian-Inspired

Servings made 4 Portions

Dietary details Plant-based, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free

Ingredient List

Vegetables

01 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
02 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
04 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated

Legumes

01 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

Liquids

01 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
02 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
03 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Spices and Seasonings

01 2 tablespoons mild curry powder
02 1 teaspoon ground cumin
03 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
04 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
05 Salt and black pepper to taste

Oils

01 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil

Garnishes

01 Fresh cilantro leaves, optional
02 Lime wedges, optional

How-To Steps

Step 01

Heat the oil: Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 02

Sauté the onion: Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent.

Step 03

Cook aromatics: Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 04

Toast spices with sweet potato: Add the sweet potato cubes, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, cayenne if using, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables in the spices.

Step 05

Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 06

Cook sweet potatoes: Cover and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 07

Add chickpeas: Add the chickpeas and cook for another 5 minutes to heat through.

Step 08

Wilt spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until wilted.

Step 09

Finish with lime juice: Remove from heat and add lime juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 10

Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Enjoy with rice or naan.

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Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Advisories

Review each item for allergens and talk to your healthcare provider if unsure.
  • Contains coconut, a tree nut allergen
  • Check canned goods and spice blends for potential cross-contamination

Nutrition info (per portion)

This nutritional overview is meant for general information. For medical concerns, ask a professional.
  • Caloric Value: 355
  • Fats: 19 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Proteins: 9 g

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