Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, look no further! This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice has become a cherished favorite in my kitchen. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to cozy family gatherings. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to whip up, even if you’re new to cooking!

What makes this chicken korma so special is the combination of spices and creamy goodness that wraps around tender chicken pieces. And believe me, once you take your first bite, you’ll want to make this dish over and over again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The mild spices appeal to all ages, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over fluffy rice or with warm flatbreads—perfect for any occasion!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the korma in advance and reheat for an easy weeknight meal.
• Deliciously Creamy: The blend of yogurt and coconut cream creates a velvety sauce that’s super satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor! You’ll be amazed at how these everyday items come together to create something truly special.

For the Chicken Korma:

• 2 tbsp ghee or sunflower oil
• 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped
• 3 chicken breasts (approx. 525g / 1.1 lbs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• 2 tsp minced ginger
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1½ tsp ground coriander
• 1½ tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp mild chili powder (optional, for gentle warmth)
• ½ tsp ground turmeric
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp white pepper
• 2 tbsp tomato purée (paste)
• ½ cup (120 ml) full-fat plain or natural yogurt
• ½ cup (120 ml) coconut cream (see note)*
• 2 tbsp ground almonds
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 4 tbsp (60 ml) double (heavy) cream

To Serve:

• 2 tbsp freshly chopped coriander (cilantro)
• Boiled rice and/or flatbread (such as chapati or naan)

Variations

This Chicken Korma recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using diced turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Adjust the spice level: If you like more heat, add an extra pinch of chili powder or serve with spicy chutney on the side.
• Make it vegan: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or cauliflower and use coconut yogurt instead of regular yogurt.

How to Make Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the ghee or sunflower oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often. You want them softened and translucent—that sweetness will form a beautiful base for your korma!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook for another 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Here we’re sealing in those juices so that each piece turns lightly golden—this step adds wonderful depth to our dish.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in the garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, chili powder (if using), turmeric, salt, white pepper, and tomato purée. Allow them to dance together by cooking for 2 minutes. This is where all those amazing flavors really come alive!

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Now it’s time for some creaminess! Add in the yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and sugar. Stir well to combine everything. Bring this delightful mixture to a gentle boil before reducing heat to let it simmer for 6–8 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring your chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Stir in the double cream right before removing from heat. This final touch makes your korma luxuriously rich!

Step 6: Serve

Spoon your sumptuous korma over boiled rice or serve alongside warm flatbread. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh coriander—it adds such a lovely burst of flavor!

There you have it—an easy homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

Making chicken korma at home is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect dish every time!

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices can elevate the flavor profile of your korma. This enhances the aroma and provides a vibrant taste that pre-ground spices may lack.

• Marinate the Chicken: If you have extra time, consider marinating the chicken in yogurt, ginger, and garlic for an hour before cooking. This step makes the chicken even more tender and infuses it with flavor.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder based on your family’s heat preference. This ensures everyone can enjoy a dish tailored to their taste buds.

• Experiment with Creaminess: For a richer sauce, you can replace part of the coconut cream with additional double cream. It adds a luxurious texture that makes your korma even more indulgent.

• Add Vegetables: Sneaking in some vegetables like peas or spinach during the simmering stage not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and texture to your dish.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

Presenting your homemade chicken korma can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh coriander (cilantro): A sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander brightens up the dish and adds a burst of freshness.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to add a dash of acidity that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Chili flakes: For those who love an extra kick, offering chili flakes on the side lets everyone customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Boiled rice: A classic pairing, fluffy boiled rice absorbs the delicious sauce of the korma, providing a perfect balance.
• Flatbread (chapati or naan): Warm flatbreads are ideal for scooping up korma, making each bite satisfying and fun.
• Cucumber raita: This refreshing yogurt-based side helps cool down any heat from the spices while adding a creamy contrast.
• Mixed vegetable salad: A light salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions dressed in lemon juice offers a crunchy texture that complements the soft korma perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’ll create an unforgettable meal that brings smiles around your dining table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, store it, and enjoy the flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover korma in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.

Freezing

• Allow the korma to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra coconut cream if needed for moisture.
• Alternatively, use the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage tips above for best results.

What can I serve with Easy Homemade Chicken Korma?

This flavorful korma pairs wonderfully with boiled rice or warm flatbreads like chapati or naan. Fresh coriander as a garnish adds a lovely touch!

Is there a vegetarian alternative to this chicken korma recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with chickpeas or paneer for a delicious vegetarian version. The cooking times may vary slightly.

How spicy is this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma?

This recipe is mild, but you can adjust the chili powder according to your taste preferences. Feel free to omit it entirely for an even gentler flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it solo, you’re sure to savor every bite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to explore all the delicious variations you can create!