Name: Creamy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp Ghee or Sunflower Oil (Cooking fat that enhances flavor; vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.); 1 Onion (A key flavor base; ensure it’s finely chopped for optimal cooking.); 3 pieces Chicken Breasts (approx. 525g / 1.1 lbs) (The main protein, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Adds depth to flavor; use fresh for the best results.); 2 tsp Minced Ginger (Introduces warmth and a touch of spice.); 1 tsp Ground Cumin (Provides earthy flavor; essential for a well-rounded dish.); 1.5 tsp Ground Coriander (Enhances the aromatic spice profile you crave.); 1.5 tsp Garam Masala (This essential Indian spice mix adds complexity to your korma.); 0.5 tsp Mild Chili Powder (optional) (Adds warmth; adjust according to your heat preference.); 0.5 tsp Ground Turmeric (Brings color and earthy notes that complete the dish.); 0.25 tsp Salt (Enhances all flavors for a delicious experience.); 0.25 tsp White Pepper (Adds subtle heat and a unique flavor contrast.); 2 tbsp Tomato Purée (Contributes acidity and a lovely color to the sauce.); 0.5 cup Full-Fat Plain or Natural Yogurt (Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor.); 0.5 cup Coconut Cream (Provides rich, tropical flavor.); 2 tbsp Ground Almonds (A fantastic thickening agent that adds nuttiness.); 1 tbsp Sugar (Balances the flavors for a well-rounded taste.); 4 tbsp Double (Heavy) Cream (Delivers richness and a silky smoothness.); 2 tbsp Fresh Coriander (for serving) (Garnish that adds a burst of freshness.); 1 cup Boiled Rice or Flatbread (Serve alongside the korma for a complete, satisfying meal.)

Stepping into my kitchen, the air wraps around me like a warm hug, and the aroma of spices dances invitingly. This Easy 30-Minute Chicken Korma with Coconut Cream is a true treasure for anyone craving a comforting homemade dinner that doesn’t require hours of prep. With tender chicken simmered in a creamy, coconut sauce, this dish promises to be a family favorite, all while taking under 30 minutes to prepare! Not only does it bring a rich and satisfying meal to the table, but it’s also perfect for those hectic weeknights when fast food just won’t do. Pair it with soft flatbread, and watch as smiles spread around the dinner table. Are you ready to bring the flavors of India into your home?

Why Choose Homemade Chicken Korma?

Quick and Easy: Whip up this homemade chicken korma in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights!
Creamy Delight: The luscious coconut cream adds richness you can’t resist, perfectly complementing tender chicken.
Family-Friendly: Mildly spiced and utterly flavorful, this dish is sure to please even picky eaters.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it with soft flatbread or fluffy rice, adapting to your family’s favorites for a delightful meal.
Meal Prep Star: Make it ahead and enjoy leftovers, saving you precious time without sacrificing flavor. You might also enjoy Chicken Enchiladas Tangy or Bang Bang Chicken for more quick and delicious options!

Homemade Chicken Korma Ingredients

• Discover the perfect combination of ingredients for your homemade chicken korma!

For the Korma

Ghee or Sunflower Oil – Cooking fat that enhances flavor; vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.
Onion – A key flavor base; ensure it’s finely chopped for optimal cooking.
Chicken Breasts (3, approx. 525g / 1.1 lbs) – The main protein, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds depth to flavor; use fresh for the best results.
Minced Ginger (2 tsp) – Introduces warmth and a touch of spice.
Ground Cumin (1 tsp) – Provides earthy flavor; essential for a well-rounded dish.
Ground Coriander (1½ tsp) – Enhances the aromatic spice profile you crave.
Garam Masala (1½ tsp) – This essential Indian spice mix adds complexity to your korma.
Mild Chili Powder (½ tsp, optional) – Adds warmth; adjust according to your heat preference.
Ground Turmeric (½ tsp) – Brings color and earthy notes that complete the dish.
Salt (¼ tsp) – Enhances all flavors for a delicious experience.
White Pepper (¼ tsp) – Adds subtle heat and a unique flavor contrast.
Tomato Purée (2 tbsp) – Contributes acidity and a lovely color to the sauce.
Full-Fat Plain or Natural Yogurt (½ cup) – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor.
Coconut Cream (½ cup) – Provides rich, tropical flavor; can be swapped with the thick part of canned coconut milk for a similar texture.
Ground Almonds (2 tbsp) – A fantastic thickening agent that adds nuttiness.
Sugar (1 tbsp) – Balances the flavors for a well-rounded taste.
Double (Heavy) Cream (4 tbsp) – Delivers richness and a silky smoothness.
Fresh Coriander (for serving, 2 tbsp) – Garnish that adds a burst of freshness.

Accompaniments

Boiled Rice and/or Flatbread – Serve alongside the korma for a complete, satisfying meal.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread

Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of ghee or sunflower oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add one finely chopped onion, stirring occasionally for about 5–7 minutes until it turns golden brown and fragrant. This forms a flavorful base for your homemade chicken korma.

Step 2: Add Aromatics
Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and 2 teaspoons of minced ginger into the sautéed onions. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the mixture is aromatic and golden, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn. The enticing scents wafting from your pan mean you’re on the right track to creating a delicious korma.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Now, toss in 525 grams of bite-sized chicken breast pieces, stirring well. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken is nicely browned on all sides and just starts to seize up. This step locks in the flavors and creates a tender base for your korma sauce.

Step 4: Spice It Up
Once the chicken is browned, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1½ teaspoons of ground coriander, 1½ teaspoons of garam masala, ½ teaspoon of mild chili powder, ½ teaspoon of ground turmeric, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of white pepper. Stir the spices into the chicken for 1 minute until fragrant, allowing them to meld beautifully into the mix.

Step 5: Build the Sauce
Incorporate 2 tablespoons of tomato purée, ½ cup of full-fat plain yogurt, and ½ cup of coconut cream into the skillet. Stir well and raise the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency.

Step 6: Thicken the Korma
Fold in 2 tablespoons of ground almonds and 1 tablespoon of sugar, stirring continuously for another 2 minutes. This step will enhance the texture of your homemade chicken korma, making it rich and creamy while balancing the flavors perfectly.

Step 7: Final Touches
Before serving, gently stir in 4 tablespoons of double cream, ensuring it is well mixed without boiling. This final touch adds an extra layer of creaminess to your chicken korma that you and your family will love.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your luscious chicken korma to a serving dish, garnishing with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped coriander. Serve it hot with boiled rice or soft flatbread, allowing your loved ones to indulge in this delightful homemade dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy 30-Minute Chicken Korma with Coconut Cream are perfect for those looking to meal prep and save precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken and marinade (yogurt, spices, and coconut cream) up to 24 hours in advance; just keep it covered in the fridge to maintain its quality and flavor. Additionally, you can cook the entire korma and store it in an airtight container, where it will stay delicious for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or more coconut cream if needed to achieve the desired consistency. This way, you’ll have a comforting homemade chicken korma ready to delight your family with minimal effort!

Homemade Chicken Korma Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this homemade chicken korma your own with these delightful variations!

Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for paneer or chickpeas, maintaining the creamy richness for a satisfying vegetarian dinner.
Nut-Free Twist: Replace ground almonds with sunflower seed flour to keep the texture while avoiding nuts, perfect for allergy-friendly meals.
Heat It Up: Increase chili powder or add sliced fresh green chilies for a spicier kick that will ignite the taste buds!
Coconut-Free Alternative: Use heavy cream instead of coconut cream for a luxurious, silky sauce that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Fragrant Rice: Infuse your rice with cardamom pods and bay leaves while cooking for a fragrant side that complements the korma.
More Veggies: Add in spinach or peas during the simmering stage for extra nutrition, making your dish even heartier without sacrificing flavor.
Herb Accent: Try using fresh mint along with cilantro for a refreshing twist; it adds an unexpected layer of brightness to the dish.
Sweet and Savory: A sprinkle of raisins or chopped dates in the korma creates a sweet contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile, giving it a unique twist.

If you’re looking for more delicious chicken dishes to try, you might enjoy making Chicken Enchiladas Beat or my White Chicken Lasagna Soup for a comforting family meal!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Korma

Fridge: Store your homemade chicken korma in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even further, making each bite even more delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s in a well-sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.

Thawing: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming gently over low heat. This prevents curdling and keeps the creamy texture intact.

Reheating: Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, taking care to stir occasionally for even warming. Enjoy your homemade chicken korma just like new!

Expert Tips for Homemade Chicken Korma

Uniform Chicken Pieces: Cut chicken into equal-sized bites to ensure even cooking, so every piece is perfectly tender in your homemade chicken korma.
Coconut Cream Substitute: If you’re using canned coconut milk, only use the thick layer at the top for that decadent richness—avoid the watery part for the best results.
Adjusting Heat Levels: Start with half the chili powder if you’re unsure about spice levels; you can always add more later for a customized taste.
Gentle Reheating: When reheating leftovers, do it slowly over low heat to prevent curdling of the yogurt and cream, keeping your korma creamy and delicious.
Ground Almonds for Texture: Ensure almonds are finely ground; this will help thicken the sauce beautifully, giving your korma that signature rich texture.
Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh coriander at the end! It brightens the dish and adds a burst of flavor, enhancing your homemade chicken korma experience.

What to Serve with Easy 30-Minute Chicken Korma?

Creating the perfect meal to accompany your korma will enhance the flavors and delight your guests!

Fluffy Basmati Rice: Its light, airy texture is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, providing a comforting contrast.
Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, naan offers a delicious way to scoop up the korma, adding an authentic touch to your meal.
Refreshing Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt dip complements the spices of the korma, balancing the flavors beautifully while adding a creamy texture.
Sauteed Spinach with Garlic: The tender greens add color and nutrition, with a subtle garlic flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Mango Chutney: A sweet and tangy condiment that brightens the korma experience, the fruity notes provide a delightful contrast to the spiced dish.
Crispy Papadums: Crunchy and salty, they add texture and a fun element to the meal, encouraging diners to enjoy the korma in a new way.
Cardamom Spiced Iced Tea: To cleanse your palate, this refreshing drink contrasts spicy flavors, making each bite more enjoyable.
Gulab Jamun for Dessert: End the meal with these sweet, syrup-soaked treats for an indulgent finish that complements the richness of the korma perfectly.

Easy 30-Minute Chicken Korma Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for my korma?
Absolutely! Choose fresh chicken breasts that are bright pink and firm to the touch for the best results. Avoid chicken with any dark spots or an off smell, as this indicates spoilage. Frozen chicken can also work, but make sure to thaw it properly to ensure even cooking.

How can I store leftovers of chicken korma?
Very easily! Store your homemade chicken korma in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just let it cool completely before sealing it up to maintain freshness. The flavors often deepen while stored, making each leftover bite just as delicious!

Can I freeze chicken korma?
Absolutely! To freeze your korma, pour it into a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring all air is squeezed out. It can be stored for up to 2 months. For best results, label it with the date, and don’t forget to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!

What should I do if my korma turns out too thick?
If your chicken korma is too thick, don’t worry—this can happen! Simply add a splash of broth or water, stirring over low heat until you achieve your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken without compromising flavor.

Is chicken korma suitable for my kids?
Absolutely! This creamy chicken korma is mildly spiced, making it perfect for little palates. If your family prefers it even milder, you can simply reduce or omit the chili powder. It’s a great way to introduce them to delicious Indian flavors without overwhelming their taste buds!

Can I make chicken korma vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the chicken with paneer, chickpeas, or your favorite vegetables. If you choose a veggie option, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these ingredients might require less time to cook compared to chicken. Enjoy customizing your homemade chicken korma!