Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor, then you’re in for a treat with this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings together rich spices and creamy goodness in just about 30 minutes! Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering, this korma is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this dish is how simple it is to prepare. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip up something delicious. Plus, the combination of tender chicken and warm spices creates an inviting aroma that makes your home feel cozy. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have this meal on the table in just 30 minutes, perfect for any night of the week.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over fluffy rice or wrapped in warm flatbread—either way, it’s amazing!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the korma in advance and reheat it for an effortless meal later on.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of spices creates a symphony of taste that will make your taste buds dance!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delightful Chicken Korma. Don’t worry; these are all easy to find!

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 parts about this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If chicken isn’t your thing, try using turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers while simmering for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicier: Increase the chili powder or add some diced green chilies if you like a little heat.
• Change up the nuts: Instead of ground almonds, try cashews for a different 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. This step is important as sautéing the onions draws out their natural sweetness, forming 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 they are sealed and lightly golden. This browning adds depth of flavor that really enhances your 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. Cook for 2 minutes while stirring well to coat each piece of chicken evenly with those wonderful spices. This is where your kitchen will start smelling heavenly!

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Add the yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and sugar. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer for 6–8 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring that your chicken cooks through completely.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Stir in the double (heavy) cream and remove from heat. This final touch makes your korma irresistibly creamy—a true delight!

Step 6: Serve

Spoon generous portions of korma over fluffy rice or alongside warm flatbread. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh coriander (cilantro) for that burst of color and freshness! Enjoy every last bite!

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

Cooking can be a delightful journey, and with these expert tips, you can elevate your Chicken Korma to restaurant-quality perfection at home!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices release more flavor and aroma than pre-ground ones. This enhances the overall taste of your korma and makes it irresistibly fragrant.

• Marinate the chicken: If time allows, marinate the chicken pieces in yogurt and spices for a few hours or overnight. This not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with deeper flavors.

• Adjust the creaminess: For a richer sauce, feel free to increase the amount of coconut cream or double cream. This adds a luxurious texture to your korma that pairs beautifully with rice or bread.

• Balance the heat: If you’re unsure about spice levels, start with less chili powder and adjust according to your taste. You can always add more heat later but it’s hard to take it away once added!

• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the korma to sit covered for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

Presenting your Chicken Korma can be just as exciting as cooking it! Whether you opt for fluffy rice or warm flatbreads, there are plenty of ways to make this dish shine on your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Fresh coriander (cilantro): Chopped finely, this herb adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the korma.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice right before eating enhances the dish’s brightness and cuts through its creaminess.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy an extra kick, sprinkle some chili flakes on top for both flavor and color.

Side Dishes

• Boiled basmati rice: The classic accompaniment for korma; its fluffy grains soak up the flavorful sauce perfectly.
• Chapati or naan bread: Soft and warm breads are perfect for scooping up your delicious korma, enhancing each bite with their chewy texture.
• Cucumber raita: A refreshing yogurt dip made with diced cucumbers, mint, and spices that cools down any spiciness and balances flavors beautifully.
• Vegetable samosas: These crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas make an excellent starter or side that complements the richness of the korma.

With these simple serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll create an unforgettable meal experience that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to handle leftovers and ensure they stay fresh.

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.
• Keep boiled rice or flatbread in separate containers if you plan to use them later.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken korma into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
• Add a splash of water or coconut cream if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about this delightful recipe.

Can I make Easy Homemade Chicken Korma without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with additional coconut cream or more yogurt for a lighter version while still maintaining that creamy texture.

What should I serve with Easy Homemade Chicken Korma?

This dish pairs perfectly with boiled rice or warm flatbreads like chapati or naan. Don’t forget some fresh coriander on top for an extra burst of flavor!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This korma recipe works wonderfully with other proteins such as turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or sharing it with friends, I’m sure everyone will love every bite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to come back and share your experience!