When it comes to comforting meals that bring the whole family together, nothing quite hits the mark like Easy Homemade Chicken Korma. This rich and creamy chicken curry, infused with warm Indian spices, promises a delightful explosion of flavors, making it the perfect dish for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. Remarkably simple and ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe allows you to whisk away to the vibrant streets of India right from your kitchen.
The versatility of Chicken Korma is one of its main attractions. Whether you choose to serve it with fluffy basmati rice or soft, pillowy flatbreads like naan or chapati, this dish caters to all palates. Plus, not only is it delicious, but it also offers a comforting vibe—especially when the cold weather rolls in. The creamy texture combined with the aromatic spices creates a warming experience that is satisfying and wholesome.
What makes this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma even better is how quick and accessible it is. With common ingredients like chicken, yogurt, and coconut cream, you likely already have everything you need in your pantry. So, let’s dive into this flavorful journey and discover how to make a delectable Chicken Korma that will surely impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma
- Quick and Easy: Prepare a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
- Flavor Packed: Bursting with Indian spices that delight the taste buds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy with either fluffy rice or soft flatbreads.
- Rich and Creamy: A luscious sauce category that makes every bite comforting.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before embarking on your culinary adventure, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Ensure you have a large non-stick skillet or sauté pan handy. This will help prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup. It’s also beneficial to have a cutting board and a sharp knife to chop your ingredients efficiently, as well as measuring cups for precise amounts of ingredients.
Organize your ingredients in one area to streamline the cooking process, and consider setting out your spices, as they play a crucial role in bringing the flavors of this dish to life. Preparing an efficient workspace minimizes cooking time, allowing you to focus on the joyful process of creating this delicious Chicken Korma.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) full-fat plain yogurt
- ½ tsp mild chili powder (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- 2 tbsp ghee or sunflower oil
- ½ cup (120 ml) coconut cream
- 3 chicken breasts (about 525g), chopped into chunks
- 2 tbsp ground almonds
- 1½ tsp ground coriander
- ¼ tsp white pepper
- 2 tsp minced ginger
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 tbsp (60 ml) double (heavy) cream
- 1½ tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Onion
Begin by heating the ghee or sunflower oil in a large pan over medium heat. Carefully add the finely chopped onion and allow it to sauté for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to achieve a nice, golden-soft texture without burning the onion. This helps to build a flavor base for your Chicken Korma.
Step 2: Add Chicken
Next, toss in the chunks of chicken to the pan. Stir them well and cook for approximately five minutes. At this stage, you want the chicken to lightly brown on the outside, which will contribute to the flavor of the final dish. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Now it’s time to infuse your dish with vibrant spices! Add the minced garlic, ginger, cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, mild chili powder (if you love a touch of heat), salt, white pepper, and tomato purée to the pan. Stir everything together and let the mixture cook for about two minutes. This step releases the aromas of the spices and creates a delightful scent that fills your kitchen.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the full-fat yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and the tablespoon of sugar into the pan. Stir all the ingredients together harmoniously. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about six to eight minutes. It’s essential to let the chicken cook through during this time, soaking up the fantastic flavors of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Finish with Cream
After the chicken is fully cooked, stir in the double cream and remove the pan from the heat. This final addition of cream acts as a luxurious finishing touch, thickening the sauce and enhancing the rich flavor profile of the korma. Give it a gentle stir, ensuring everything is combined beautifully.
Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken for paneer, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add in your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, peas, or spinach to enhance nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or fennel for a unique touch.
Cooking Notes
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer after adding the cream.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fluffy boiled basmati rice for a classic pairing.
- Pair with warm naan or chapati for dipping into the korma sauce.
Tips
- Marinating chicken in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes can enhance flavor.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving for added freshness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Korma ahead of time?
Yes! Chicken Korma can be prepared ahead of time and reheated. The flavors will deepen after resting, making it even tastier.
Is Chicken Korma spicy?
This recipe is not overly spicy, but you can adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference.
What can I serve with Chicken Korma?
Serve with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or any flatbread. You can also add a side of cucumber raita for a refreshing touch.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for even cooking. If using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
Conclusion
In a world where convenience meets culinary delight, Easy Homemade Chicken Korma stands out as a wholesome recipe that is both accessible and elegant. Its creamy, aromatic sauce envelops tender chicken, inviting you to savor every bite. Whether you’re preparing a meal for your family or entertaining friends, this Chicken Korma gives you the chance to share the flavors of India right from your kitchen.
Don’t hesitate to add your personal touch by trying out some variations or serving suggestions. We encourage you to experiment and make this dish your own! If you love the recipe, be sure to share your experience in the comments below or share it with your friends and family. Enjoy every moment spent cooking and indulging in this delicious Chicken Korma!
Print
Easy Homemade Chicken Korma
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and creamy chicken curry infused with warm Indian spices.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) full-fat plain yogurt
- ½ tsp mild chili powder (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- 2 tbsp ghee or sunflower oil
- ½ cup (120 ml) coconut cream
- 3 chicken breasts (about 525g), chopped into chunks
- 2 tbsp ground almonds
- 1½ tsp ground coriander
- ¼ tsp white pepper
- 2 tsp minced ginger
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 tbsp (60 ml) double (heavy) cream
- 1½ tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
Instructions
- Begin by heating the ghee or sunflower oil in a large pan over medium heat. Carefully add the finely chopped onion and allow it to sauté for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to achieve a nice, golden-soft texture without burning the onion. This helps to build a flavor base for your Chicken Korma.
- Next, toss in the chunks of chicken to the pan. Stir them well and cook for approximately five minutes. At this stage, you want the chicken to lightly brown on the outside, which will contribute to the flavor of the final dish. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Now it’s time to infuse your dish with vibrant spices! Add the minced garlic, ginger, cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, mild chili powder (if you love a touch of heat), salt, white pepper, and tomato purée to the pan. Stir everything together and let the mixture cook for about two minutes. This step releases the aromas of the spices and creates a delightful scent that fills your kitchen.
- Pour in the full-fat yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and the tablespoon of sugar into the pan. Stir all the ingredients together harmoniously. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about six to eight minutes. It’s essential to let the chicken cook through during this time, soaking up the fantastic flavors of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- After the chicken is fully cooked, stir in the double cream and remove the pan from the heat. This final addition of cream acts as a luxurious finishing touch, thickening the sauce and enhancing the rich flavor profile of the korma. Give it a gentle stir, ensuring everything is combined beautifully.
Notes
Marinating chicken in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes can enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 30 g