Name: Easy Homemade Chicken Korma
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 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); 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; 2 tbsp ground almonds; 1 tbsp sugar; 4 tbsp (60 ml) double (heavy) cream; 2 tbsp freshly chopped coriander (cilantro); Boiled rice and/or flatbread (such as chapati or naan)

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Why Make This Recipe

Chicken korma is a delightful dish that brings the rich flavors of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. It’s creamy, mildly spiced, and pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbreads like naan or chapati. Making this recipe at home is not only simple but also gives you the ability to adjust the flavors to your liking. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, this homemade chicken korma is sure to impress everyone at the table.

How to Make Easy Homemade Chicken Korma

Ingredients

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)

Directions

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.
Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is sealed and lightly golden.
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, stirring well to coat the chicken evenly.
Simmer the Sauce: Add the yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and sugar. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Finish with Cream: Stir in the double (heavy) cream and remove from the heat.
Serve: Spoon the korma over rice or serve alongside warm flatbread. Garnish with fresh coriander (cilantro).

How to Serve Easy Homemade Chicken Korma

Chicken korma is best served hot. You can plate it over a bed of fluffy boiled rice or with warm, soft flatbreads. A sprinkle of fresh coriander adds a nice touch. It makes for a comforting meal that can be enjoyed with family and friends.

How to Store Easy Homemade Chicken Korma

Store any leftover chicken korma in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens when stored.

Tips to Make Easy Homemade Chicken Korma

Adjust the Spice: If you or your guests prefer a milder dish, you can skip the chili powder or reduce the amount.
Balance the Creaminess: Feel free to add more yogurt or coconut cream if you want a creamier sauce.
Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day ahead of time. The flavors will deepen and improve as it sits.

Variation

You can easily customize chicken korma by adding vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or carrots for a colorful and nutritious twist. If you want to make it vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or paneer.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat in korma?

Yes, you can use lamb, beef, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is korma spicy?

Korma is typically mild compared to other Indian dishes. You can control the heat level by adjusting the chili powder or omitting it altogether.

Can I freeze leftover chicken korma?

Yes, chicken korma freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Eating homemade chicken korma is a wonderful way to experience the flavors of Indian cuisine in your own home. Enjoy!