Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice has become a cherished recipe in my kitchen. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, it brings a taste of Indian cuisine right to your table without any fuss.

I love how straightforward this recipe is, yet every bite feels like a warm hug. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those evenings when you want something special but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: In just 30 minutes, you can serve up this delightful dish without the stress.
• Family-friendly: The mild spices make it perfect for all ages; even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
• Versatile: Serve it over rice or with flatbread – either way, it’s sure to impress.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the korma in advance and reheat it for an even tastier meal later.
• Deliciously satisfying: The creamy texture and aromatic spices create a comforting dish that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious Chicken Korma!

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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: You can easily use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken for a plant-based option.
• Add some veggies: Throw in some spinach or bell peppers to boost the nutrition and add color to your dish.
• Change up the nuts: If you don’t have ground almonds, try cashews or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: For those who enjoy heat, increase the chili powder or add fresh chili peppers to suit your taste.

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, until softened and translucent. This step is crucial as sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness, which forms a lovely base for our korma.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook them for another 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. We want them sealed and lightly golden. Browning not only enhances flavor but also adds great texture!

Step 3: Add the Spices

Now it’s time to infuse our dish with flavor! Stir in garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, chili powder (if using), turmeric, salt, white pepper, and tomato purée. Cook everything together for about 2 minutes. This helps develop those warm aromas that will have everyone eagerly waiting at the dinner table.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and sugar. Mix well until combined. Bring this fragrant mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. This slow cooking melds all those beautiful flavors together!

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Stir in double cream and remove from heat. This final touch adds richness that makes our korma feel indulgent while still being healthy.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon your luscious korma over fluffy rice or serve it alongside warm flatbread. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh coriander (cilantro) – it brightens up both flavor and presentation!

And there you have it—your very own Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Making this chicken korma is a breeze, but with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use fresh spices – Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor of your korma significantly. They release more oils and aromas, providing a richer taste compared to pre-ground spices.
• Marinate the chicken – If time allows, marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for an hour or even overnight can make it extra tender and flavorful. This step adds depth to your korma without much extra effort!
• Adjust the heat – Feel free to modify the chili powder according to your preference. If you’re serving guests who may not enjoy spicy food, you can easily reduce or omit it while still keeping the dish delicious.
• Don’t rush the simmering – Allowing the korma to simmer gently lets all the flavors meld beautifully. This patience results in a more complex and satisfying sauce.
• Serve warm – For the best experience, serve your korma immediately after cooking, while it’s warm and fragrant. This ensures that every bite is comforting and satisfying!

How to Serve Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

Presenting your chicken korma is just as important as making it! Whether you choose fluffy rice or warm flatbread, a few thoughtful touches can make your meal truly special.

Garnishes

• Fresh coriander (cilantro) – A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro not only adds color but also brings brightness to the rich flavors of the korma.
• Lemon wedges – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating can enhance the dish’s flavors and add a refreshing zest.
• Sliced red onions – Adding thin slices of red onion on top provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with creamy korma.

Side Dishes

• Boiled basmati rice – Fluffy basmati rice is classic and perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce of the korma. Its subtle nutty flavor complements the spices wonderfully.
• Chapati or naan bread – Soft flatbreads are ideal for scooping up korma. Their chewy texture pairs nicely with the creamy sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
• Cucumber raita – A cool cucumber raita made from yogurt can balance out the warmth of the korma perfectly. It adds a refreshing touch that brightens each mouthful.
• Vegetable samosas – These crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas make for a delightful appetizer alongside your main dish. Their crunchiness is an exciting contrast to the smoothness of korma.

Enjoy crafting this delicious meal and sharing it with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish any day of the week. With just a little planning, you can have this comforting meal ready to go for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken korma to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken korma into individual servings for easy reheating.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken korma in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice:

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein chosen.

How can I make Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or consider adding fresh green chilies. You can also try incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

What should I serve with Chicken Korma?

Chicken Korma pairs beautifully with boiled rice or warm flatbreads like chapati or naan. You can also serve it with a side salad or yogurt for a refreshing contrast.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma! It’s not just about preparing a meal; it’s about creating something special that warms your heart and feeds your soul. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share this delightful recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!