Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice is one of my all-time favorites. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying—just the way we like it!

Korma has a special place in my kitchen because it combines simple ingredients into something truly magical. It invites everyone around the table to dig in and share stories while savoring each bite. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can whip up a delicious meal even on your busiest days!
• Family-Friendly: The mild spices make it perfect for kids and adults alike—everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with fluffy boiled rice or warm flatbread; it’s great any way you choose.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the korma in advance for an easy dinner solution throughout the week.
• Deliciously Creamy Flavor: The combination of yogurt and coconut cream creates a rich sauce that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice requires only simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using diced turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option; both work beautifully in this creamy sauce.
• Add some veggies: Stir in peas or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you’re a fan of heat, add a bit more chili powder or some diced green chilies to the mix!
• Experiment with nuts: Replace ground almonds with cashews for a different flavor profile.

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 helps release their natural sweetness, which forms the base of our flavorful dish!

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 depth to the flavor, making your korma even more delicious.

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 the chicken evenly. This crucial step ensures all those wonderful spices infuse into every piece of chicken.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Add yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and sugar. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to simmer for 6–8 minutes. During this time, you’ll see how quickly everything comes together as your kitchen fills with tantalizing aromas!

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Stir in double (heavy) cream and remove from the heat. This final touch makes your korma luxuriously creamy—trust me; you won’t want to skip this step!

Step 6: Serve

Spoon your delicious korma over rice or serve alongside warm flatbread. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped coriander (cilantro) for that pop of freshness!

Enjoy every moment as you share this delightful meal with loved ones!

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

Making a delicious chicken korma at home can be a breeze with just a few handy tips!

• Prep Your Ingredients Ahead of Time: Having everything chopped and measured before you start cooking allows you to focus on the process, leading to better results and less stress.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices pack more flavor than pre-ground ones. Toasting whole spices before grinding can enhance their aroma and taste, adding depth to your korma.

• Adjust the Heat Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to reduce or omit the chili powder. The beauty of this recipe is in its flexibility, allowing you to cater to your taste preferences.

• Simmer Gently: After adding the yogurt and coconut cream, keep the heat low to prevent curdling. A gentle simmer allows flavors to meld beautifully without compromising texture.

• Let It Sit: If time allows, let your korma rest for a few minutes after cooking. This gives the flavors time to develop even further, resulting in a richer dish.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

Serving your chicken korma can be just as delightful as preparing it! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh Coriander (Cilantro): A sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander on top not only adds color but also brings a fresh burst of flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
• Sliced Green Chilies: For those who love a bit of heat, thinly sliced green chilies can add a pop of color and an extra kick.
• Lemon Wedges: Offering lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their dish, enhancing the flavors with a zesty touch.

Side Dishes

• Boiled Rice: Classic steamed basmati rice is perfect for soaking up the rich korma sauce. Its fluffy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy dish.
• Chapati or Naan: Warm, soft flatbreads like chapati or naan are ideal for scooping up the korma. Their slightly chewy texture pairs wonderfully with the dish.
• Cucumber Raita: A cooling cucumber raita made with yogurt helps balance out the spices in the korma. Simply mix grated cucumber with yogurt, salt, and a dash of cumin for a refreshing side.
• Mixed Vegetable Salad: A simple salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly with olive oil adds crunch and freshness that complement the richness of the korma.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your homemade chicken korma will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma is a fantastic option for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, homemade flavors throughout the week. Whether you’re planning lunches or dinners, this recipe holds up beautifully.

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.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Freezing

• Cool the korma as mentioned above and place it in a freezer-safe container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• You can also microwave it; just be sure to cover it and stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

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

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat!

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

This korma pairs wonderfully with boiled rice or warm flatbreads like chapati or naan. You could also enjoy it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.

How can I adjust the spice level in my Chicken Korma?

To enhance or reduce spiciness, simply adjust the amount of chili powder you use. Start with less and taste as you go—it’s all about your preference!

Is there a substitute for coconut cream in this recipe?

Yes! If you prefer not to use coconut cream, you can replace it with additional yogurt or a plant-based cream alternative that suits your taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma becomes a cherished recipe in your kitchen! Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a comfort food favorite that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your own twist on it. Happy cooking!