Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice is just the thing! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines rich flavors with simple ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table with family or having friends over, this dish will surely impress.

The beauty of Chicken Korma lies in its creamy texture and aromatic spices, making it a favorite for everyone. Plus, it pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or warm flatbreads, allowing you to savor every last drop of that comforting sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the mild spices and creamy sauce.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this korma ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
• Endless Flavor: The combination of spices creates a rich, mouthwatering flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, ensuring it’s just right for your family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You’ll be amazed at how these everyday items come together to create something so delightful!

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 great things about this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use diced turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, peas, or bell peppers during cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add more chili powder or some chopped fresh chilies to kick things up a notch.
• Change the creaminess: Substitute coconut cream with cashew cream for a nutty 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. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often until softened and translucent. Sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness and forms a flavorful base for your korma.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until sealed and lightly golden. This step locks in juices and starts building layers of flavor.

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 for 2 minutes while stirring well to coat everything evenly. The spices will bloom in heat here, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen!

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Add the yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and sugar. Stir to combine everything beautifully. Bring this 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 allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together into one delicious sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Stir in the double cream and remove from heat. The cream adds richness that balances out all those spices perfectly!

Step 6: Serve

Spoon your luscious korma over rice or serve alongside warm flatbread. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh coriander (cilantro) – it adds a lovely pop of color and freshness! Enjoy every comforting bite!

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

Creating a delicious chicken korma can be as easy as following the steps, but these pro tips will elevate your dish to a whole new level!

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices pack more flavor than older ones. Check your spice cabinet for freshness to make sure your korma is aromatic and delightful.

• Marinate the Chicken: If you have time, marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for a few hours (or overnight) can enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the chili powder based on your spice preference. This way, you can customize the warmth of the dish to suit your taste buds.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality coconut cream and yogurt can significantly impact the creaminess and richness of your sauce, making every bite luxurious.

• Don’t Rush the Simmering: Allowing the korma to simmer gently ensures that all flavors meld beautifully together, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

Presentation is key when it comes to serving your chicken korma! Here are some delightful ways to present this dish for maximum enjoyment.

Garnishes

• • Fresh Coriander (Cilantro): A sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the korma.
• • Sliced Green Chili: For those who like an extra kick, thinly sliced green chilies provide both visual appeal and spiciness.
• • Toasted Almonds: A handful of toasted almonds sprinkled over the top not only enhances texture but also adds a nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

• • Boiled Rice: Simple yet effective, fluffy boiled rice serves as a perfect base for soaking up that luscious korma sauce.
• • Chapati: Soft and warm chapatis are ideal for scooping up each savory bite, adding an authentic touch to your meal.
• • Cucumber Raita: A cooling cucumber raita made with yogurt can balance out the spices in your korma while adding a refreshing element.
• • Mixed Vegetable Curry: A side of mixed vegetable curry not only brings variety to your meal but also contributes additional nutrients alongside your chicken korma.

Bringing together these elements will surely impress family and friends at your next gathering—enjoy every moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy this flavorful dish throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken korma to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for the best taste and freshness.

Freezing

• Let the korma cool down before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label your containers with dates for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
• You can also microwave it in short intervals; cover to prevent splatter.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

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

Absolutely! This dish keeps well in the fridge and flavors continue to develop when stored overnight.

What can I serve with Easy Homemade Chicken Korma?

You can pair it with boiled rice or warm flatbreads like chapati or naan. Fresh coriander on top adds a lovely touch!

Can I substitute the yogurt in this recipe?

Yes! You can use a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you’re looking for a non-dairy option.

Is there a way to make this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma spicier?

Definitely! Increase the amount of chili powder or add chopped green chilies to fit your spice preference.

How long does this chicken korma take to cook?

The total time is only about 30 minutes, making it an ideal quick meal without sacrificing flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice as much as I do! The rich, aromatic flavors combined with tender chicken make it truly special. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on your own. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!