Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen, let me introduce you to my favorite Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice! This recipe is a delightful blend of spices and creamy goodness that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The best part? It’s straightforward enough for anyone to whip up, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen!

This korma is not only delicious but also adaptable. Whether you want to serve it over fluffy rice or with warm flatbreads, it fits any occasion. Plus, the rich flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You won’t need anything fancy here! Just wholesome ingredients that are easy to find.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a scrumptious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The mild spices make this dish appealing to all ages—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It stores well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the spices or add veggies to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need to create this creamy, fragrant chicken korma. Each element plays an important role in building those wonderful flavors!

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 chicken korma is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Try using chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
• Add some veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or peas while simmering for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the creaminess: Feel free to use almond milk instead of coconut cream for a lighter option.
• Adjust spice levels: If you love heat, increase the chili powder or add some fresh chili slices!

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 until softened and translucent. This step is crucial as sautéing brings out the natural sweetness of the onion.

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. Browning adds flavor and texture that elevate your korma.

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. This step ensures all those aromatic spices coat the chicken evenly.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Now it’s time to add yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and sugar. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 6–8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. This is where your kitchen will start smelling heavenly!

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Stir in double cream right before serving; this adds that velvety richness we all love in a good korma! Remove from heat once combined.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon this delightful korma over rice or serve alongside warm flatbread. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh coriander! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Creating the perfect chicken korma is all about attention to detail and a few expert touches, so here are some tips to help you achieve that dreamy, creamy goodness!

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices pack more flavor than pre-ground ones. If you can, grind your cumin and coriander seeds just before using them to elevate the aroma and taste of your korma.

• Marinate the Chicken: For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for a few hours or overnight. This not only infuses the meat with deliciousness but also helps tenderize it.

• Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your preference for heat. Remember, you can always add more spice later, but it’s harder to dial it back once it’s in!

• Balance the Creaminess: If you find the korma too rich, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving. This will brighten up the flavors and create a lovely balance.

• Don’t Rush It: Allowing the korma to simmer gently ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully. Patience is key to making a fantastic dish!

How to Serve Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

Serving your chicken korma can be an art in itself! With a few thoughtful presentations and sides, you can turn this comforting meal into an impressive feast.

Garnishes

• Fresh Coriander (Cilantro): A sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander adds vibrant color and enhances the dish’s aromatic profile.
• Sliced Green Chilies: For those who enjoy a bit more heat, finely sliced green chilies make for an attractive garnish while adding extra spice.

Side Dishes

• Boiled Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is a classic accompaniment that soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully.
• Chapati: This soft Indian flatbread is perfect for scooping up korma. Its mild flavor complements the richness of the dish without overpowering it.
• Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side with cucumber and herbs offers a refreshing contrast to the spiced korma.
• Steamed Vegetables: Brightly colored steamed vegetables like carrots, peas, and broccoli add nutrition and freshness to your plate while balancing out the meal.

Now that you’ve got all these serving ideas at your fingertips, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your homemade chicken korma masterpiece! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, store it, and enjoy the rich flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the korma to cool down before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken korma into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish, covered, in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Add a splash of water or coconut cream if needed to loosen up the sauce.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time. Just follow the storage instructions above.

What can I serve with Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice?

You can serve this delightful korma with boiled rice or warm flatbreads like chapati or naan. Fresh coriander makes a lovely garnish as well!

Can I substitute any ingredients in this chicken korma?

Yes! You can substitute sunflower oil for ghee if desired. For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut yogurt instead of regular yogurt.

How do I adjust the spice level of my chicken korma?

To adjust spice levels, simply add less chili powder or omit it altogether for a milder flavor. You can also increase it gradually until it meets your preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth to your table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo, every bite is sure to delight. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out!