If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and fragrant dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, then you are definitely going to love this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of tender chicken simmered in a creamy, mildly spiced sauce that’s both indulgent and approachable. The combination of fragrant spices and smooth textures makes it a perfect weeknight meal or a special dish to share with friends and family. Let me take you through every delicious detail of this fantastic recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, balancing creaminess with a hint of spice, and giving the dish its signature velvety texture and golden color.
- 2 tbsp ghee or sunflower oil: The base fat that brings a nutty aroma and helps sauté the onions perfectly.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened gently.
- 3 chicken breasts (approx. 525g), diced: Tender protein that absorbs all the lovely flavors.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: A pungent boost that brightens the dish.
- 2 tsp minced ginger: Adds warmth and a subtle zing.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Earthy spice that’s essential for authentic flavor.
- 1½ tsp ground coriander: Brings a fresh, citrus undertone.
- 1½ tsp garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that seals the deal on the korma taste.
- ½ tsp mild chili powder (optional): Adds a gentle heat without overpowering.
- ½ tsp ground turmeric: Gives that irresistible golden hue and subtle earthiness.
- ¼ tsp salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors perfectly.
- ¼ tsp white pepper: For a mild peppery kick without dark specks.
- 2 tbsp tomato purée: Introduces slight acidity and depth.
- ½ cup plain yogurt: Adds creaminess and a gentle tang.
- ½ cup coconut cream: Rich and silky, it makes the sauce decadently smooth.
- 2 tbsp ground almonds: Gives body and a subtle nutty texture.
- 1 tbsp sugar: Balances spices with a hint of sweetness.
- 4 tbsp double cream: The final touch of richness and silkiness before serving.
How to Make Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by heating your chosen fat—ghee or sunflower oil—in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook them slowly for about 5 minutes until they turn soft and translucent. This is the foundation of flavor, releasing natural sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Next, toss in the diced chicken breasts. Cook them gently for around 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pieces are lightly golden on the outside. This step locks in the juices and adds a subtle roasted flavor that elevates the final dish.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Spices
Now, stir in the minced garlic and ginger along with the ground cumin, coriander, garam masala, mild chili powder, turmeric, salt, and white pepper. Add the tomato purée too. Let everything cook together for about 2 minutes to toast the spices and bring out their full aroma. Your kitchen is going to smell incredible at this point!
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Mix in the yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and sugar. These ingredients create the silky, luscious sauce that defines this chicken korma. Bring the pan to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 6 to 8 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through fully and the flavors to meld into a beautiful harmony.
Step 5: Finish with Double Cream
Just before you take the pan off the heat, stir in the double cream for that extra velvety richness. This final touch transforms the sauce into a wonderfully smooth masterpiece that coats every bite of chicken perfectly.
Step 6: Serve with Flatbread or Rice
Time to enjoy! Serve your Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice Recipe over fluffy boiled rice or alongside warm, soft flatbread. Either way, you’ll have the perfect vehicle to soak up all that mouthwatering sauce.
How to Serve Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh coriander leaves are the classic garnish here, adding a bright, peppery freshness that cuts through the richness of the curry. You can also sprinkle toasted slivered almonds for some delightful crunch and a nutty accent that echoes the ground almonds in the sauce.
Side Dishes
To complement this hearty dish, consider serving it with cooling cucumber raita or a crisp salad with lemon juice and fresh herbs. These sides add refreshing contrast and balance, making each meal feel even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try serving the korma in beautiful small bowls with flatbread wrapped in cloth to keep warm. Layer it over saffron-infused basmati rice and scatter rose petals or pomegranate seeds on top for a stunning visual and flavor twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen over time, making your next meal even more delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool the korma completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, so all the spices and cream maintain their wonderful texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. If needed, add a splash of water or extra cream to refresh the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid using high heat to keep the chicken tender and the sauce luxuriously smooth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they stay juicy and tender during cooking. They also add a deeper flavor to your Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice Recipe.
Is the chili powder necessary?
The chili powder is optional and mild, meant to add just a little warmth. If you prefer a completely mild curry, feel free to leave it out or adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the yogurt and double cream with coconut yogurt and additional coconut cream to keep it dairy-free while preserving creaminess and flavor.
What type of flatbread pairs best with chicken korma?
Traditional naan bread or roti are wonderful choices because they are soft and perfect for scooping up the rich sauce of this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice Recipe.
How long does this recipe take from start to finish?
The whole process takes approximately 30 minutes—10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook—making it an ideal choice for a quick yet impressive homemade dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Its creamy, fragrant sauce and tender chicken come together in perfect harmony, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and enjoy the warm, inviting flavors that make every meal a celebration.
Print
Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
A rich and flavorful Easy Homemade Chicken Korma featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a creamy sauce made with yogurt, coconut cream, and aromatic spices, perfect to serve alongside flatbread or steamed rice for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp ghee or sunflower oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 chicken breasts (approx. 525g), diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp minced ginger
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1½ tsp ground coriander
- 1½ tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp mild chili powder (optional)
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp white pepper
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- ½ cup coconut cream
- 2 tbsp ground almonds
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 4 tbsp double cream
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat the ghee or sunflower oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent, forming a flavorful base for the korma.
- Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken breasts to the pan and cook them for around 5 minutes until they turn lightly golden on the outside, ensuring they start cooking through evenly.
- Add aromatics and spices: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger along with ground cumin, coriander, garam masala, mild chili powder (if using), turmeric, salt, white pepper, and tomato purée. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes to release the spices’ aromas.
- Combine creamy ingredients and simmer: Mix in the plain yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and sugar. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for 6 to 8 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the flavors meld together.
- Finish with cream: Stir in the double cream to enrich the sauce before removing the pan from the heat, giving the korma its characteristic creaminess.
- Serve: Serve your chicken korma hot over boiled rice or with flatbread, garnished with fresh coriander if desired for an authentic touch.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the chili powder according to taste.
- Ghee adds a nutty flavor but sunflower oil is a suitable substitute for a lighter taste.
- Ground almonds help thicken the sauce; you can substitute with cashew powder if preferred.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by simmering until no pink remains.
- Fresh coriander garnish enhances flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
