Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice is one of those recipes that brings people together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. The creamy sauce, fragrant spices, and tender chicken create a beautiful harmony of flavors that feels special but is surprisingly simple to make.

I love how this recipe is not only delicious but also adaptable to suit your taste. You can pair it with fluffy rice or warm flatbread, making it perfect for any occasion!

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: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the mild spices and creamy texture—perfect for everyone!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the korma ahead of time and reheat it, making meal prep a breeze.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: Every bite of this dish is bursting with flavor, making it a satisfying choice for any meal.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to fit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering good ingredients makes all the difference in creating a delicious meal. This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can find in most kitchens.

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

One of the best things about this korma recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using diced turkey or chickpeas instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach, peas, or bell peppers during cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute the yogurt and cream with coconut yogurt and more coconut cream for a fully dairy-free version.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add extra chili powder or fresh chilies to kick up the flavor!

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. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 5 minutes while stirring often until softened and translucent. This step is crucial as sautéing onions brings out their natural sweetness—setting a flavorful base for your korma!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Now it’s time to add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook them for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are sealed and lightly golden. Browning adds depth to your dish and creates those lovely caramelized flavors.

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. Cook this fragrant mixture for about 2 minutes while stirring well to ensure all chicken pieces are coated evenly with spices. This step infuses your korma with rich flavors that everyone will love!

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Next up is adding in the yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and sugar. Stir everything together until combined. Bring this delightful mixture to a gentle boil before reducing heat to simmer for 6–8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. This simmering process helps marry all those wonderful flavors together.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Stir in the double cream right before removing from heat. This addition gives your korma an indulgent richness that makes it truly special!

Step 6: Serve

Spoon generous portions of korma over fluffy rice or serve alongside warm flatbread. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh coriander (cilantro) for an added pop of freshness!

And there you have it—a comforting plate of Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice! Enjoy every bite!

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

Making chicken korma can be a delightful experience, and these simple tips will help you achieve a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen!

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your korma. They release essential oils that give a more vibrant taste compared to pre-ground spices.

• Marinate the Chicken: For extra tenderness and flavor, consider marinating your chicken pieces in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This step infuses the chicken with deep flavors and keeps it juicy.

• Adjusting the Heat: If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to adjust or omit the chili powder. You can also add more coconut cream or yogurt if you prefer a milder taste without sacrificing creaminess.

• Simmer Gently: After adding the sauces, let your korma simmer on low heat. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without overcooking the chicken, ensuring a succulent outcome.

• Experiment with Nuts: For added texture and flavor, try incorporating different nuts like cashews or pistachios along with ground almonds as a topping.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

Presenting your homemade chicken korma beautifully not only makes it look appealing but also enhances the dining experience. Here are some ideas for serving this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Coriander (Cilantro): A sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the korma.
• Sliced Green Chilies: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, thinly sliced green chilies provide an attractive garnish that can also enhance flavor.
• Toasted Almonds: A handful of toasted almond slices sprinkled on top adds crunch and elevates the dish’s presentation.

Side Dishes

• Boiled Rice: Fluffy boiled rice is a classic pairing that soaks up all the delicious sauce from your korma, making each bite divine.
• Chapati or Naan: Soft, warm flatbreads are perfect for scooping up the creamy korma and add a comforting element to the meal.
• Cucumber Raita: This refreshing yogurt-based side dish balances the spices in your korma. Simply mix diced cucumber with yogurt, salt, and a pinch of cumin for a cooling effect.
• Vegetable Pakoras: Crispy vegetable fritters are great as an appetizer or side. They offer a crunchy contrast to the smoothness of your chicken korma while adding more vegetables to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to create an unforgettable meal that will impress family and friends alike! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a comforting dish in advance. With just a few simple steps, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the korma cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave until thoroughly heated.

Freezing

• Allow the korma to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion the korma into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and type of dish for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the korma overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Easy Homemade Chicken Korma without yogurt?

Absolutely! You can substitute yogurt with an equal amount of coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative to keep it creamy and delicious.

What goes well with Easy Homemade Chicken Korma?

This dish pairs wonderfully with boiled rice or warm flatbreads like chapati or naan. Fresh coriander adds a lovely touch too!

How can I adjust the spice level of Easy Homemade Chicken Korma?

To adjust the spice level, simply reduce or omit the mild chili powder. You can also add more spices like garam masala for extra flavor without increasing heat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma as much as I do! It’s not just about delicious flavors but also about sharing warmth and comfort with your loved ones. Whether served over fluffy rice or alongside soft flatbreads, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!