When you think of a dish that envelops your senses in warmth and rich flavors, Chicken Korma comes to mind. The tender chicken bathed in a creamy sauce, infused with spices that dance on your palate, is simply irresistible. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it simmers away, luring everyone into the dining room, eager for a taste.
This charming dish is perfect for cozy family gatherings or when you want to impress friends at dinner parties. With its vibrant colors and luxurious textures, Chicken Korma not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Korma is simple to make yet delivers complex flavors that wow any crowd
- Its creamy texture pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or warm naan
- The stunning presentation makes it perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners alike
- Feel free to customize the spice levels based on your preferences for a personalized touch
Every time I whip up Chicken Korma, my friends are blown away by its restaurant-quality taste—last time, they even insisted I start a cooking class.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on how many mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm garlic cloves for maximum flavor; they’re the aromatic backbone of this dish.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty kick; peel and grate it finely for the best results.
Onion: A large onion brings sweetness; sauté until golden brown for depth of flavor.
Coconut Milk: Creamy coconut milk enriches the sauce; opt for full-fat for an indulgent experience.
Korma Spice Mix: This blend typically includes coriander, cumin, and cardamom; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
Fresh Cilantro: Chop fresh cilantro as a garnish; it adds color and freshness to each serving.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors; add just before serving for a zingy finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cooking Chicken Korma is like painting a masterpiece; each step builds upon the last to create something truly beautiful.
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the onion, garlic, ginger, and cilantro. Having everything prepped makes cooking smooth sailing.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some oil and throw in diced onions. Cook until they’re soft and golden brown—around 5-7 minutes—releasing their sweet aroma.
Add Garlic and Ginger: Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger next. Sauté briefly until fragrant—about 1 minute—making sure not to burn them; we want flavor, not bitterness.
Cook the Chicken Pieces: Now it’s time to add those chicken breasts into the pan. Season with salt and pepper as you cook them until they turn white on all sides—about 5-10 minutes should do it.
Add Coconut Milk and Spices: Pour in the coconut milk and sprinkle in your korma spice mix. Stir everything together until combined beautifully; let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes so those flavors meld perfectly.
Finish with Freshness: Just before serving, stir in chopped cilantro and lemon juice. This final touch elevates the dish with brightness and vibrancy.
Serve it hot alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. Your guests will be swooning over every bite.
Now you’ve mastered Chicken Korma. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s bound to become a regular favorite at your dinner table.
You Must Know
- Chicken Korma is not just a dish; it’s an experience
- The rich spices and creamy texture create an unforgettable flavor that dances on your palate
- Plus, this recipe allows you to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least one hour to infuse flavors, then sauté onions until golden before adding spices. This sequence ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap yogurt for coconut milk for a dairy-free version or add spinach for a pop of color. Experimenting keeps the dish exciting and personalized.
Storing & Reheating
Store Chicken Korma in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use bone-in chicken for juiciness and richer flavor, ensuring it cooks evenly with all those spices
- Allow enough marinating time for maximum tenderness—don’t rush
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance out acidity from tomatoes or yogurt, enhancing depth
I once made this Chicken Korma recipe for a family gathering, and everyone kept asking for seconds. It felt great to share something I loved.
FAQ
Can I make Chicken Korma ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day prior; flavors improve as it sits.
What can I serve with Chicken Korma?
Serve with naan, rice, or even quinoa for a healthy twist.
Is Chicken Korma spicy?
It has warm spices but is generally mild; adjust chili to taste.

Chicken Korma
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Chicken Korma is a delightful dish that envelops your senses with its creamy sauce and aromatic spices. This comforting recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich coconut milk base, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Served with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice, Chicken Korma is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp korma spice mix
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Chop cilantro and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- Add garlic and ginger: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add chicken breasts to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn white on all sides (5-10 minutes).
- Combine coconut milk and spices: Pour in coconut milk and sprinkle korma spice mix; stir well and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Finish with freshness: Just before serving, stir in chopped cilantro and lemon juice for a flavorful finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: - For added richness, marinate the chicken for at least an hour before cooking. - You can substitute yogurt for coconut milk for a different flavor profile or add spinach to enhance nutrition.