Indian Chicken Korma Recipe

Experience the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine with this chicken korma recipe. This creamy, aromatic dish combines tender chicken, a blend of rich spices and a luscious almond-yogurt sauce. Enjoy the culinary journey to India without leaving your kitchen.

Photos of Indian Chicken Korma Recipe

The special ingredients for this recipe are garam masala and cardamom. Garam masala, a staple in Indian cuisine, is a blend of warm spices and may not be readily available in every home. Cardamom, an aromatic spice, lends a unique flavor to the dish. Look for these items in the spice aisle or in the international food section of your supermarket.

Ingredients for Indian Chicken Korma Recipe

chicken thighs: The main protein of the dish, providing a tender, juicy bite.

tomato paste: Adds a rich color and subtle tang to the sauce.

fresh ginger: Brings a zesty flavor and complements the other spices.

garlic cloves: Provides a robust, aromatic base for the dish.

garam masala: A blend of spices that gives the dish its authentic Indian flavor.

red pepper: Adds a touch of heat to the dish.

paprika: Gives a sweet, smoky flavor.

cardamom: An aromatic spice lending a unique, sweet flavor.

kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

turmeric: Adds color and a slightly earthy flavor.

almonds: Provides a rich thickness to the sauce and a bit of crunch.

greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and balance to the spices.

canola oil: Used for cooking the onions and chicken.

butter: Adds a rich, creamy flavor.

yellow onion: Provides a sweet, caramelized flavor.

heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the dish.

One reader, Jens Mullen says:

This Indian chicken korma recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices and creamy texture creates an explosion of flavors. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, and the aroma is simply irresistible. It's a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Indian cuisine.

Jens Mullen

Essential Techniques for Crafting Indian Chicken Korma

How to marinate the chicken: Combine the chicken with the tomato paste, ginger, garlic, garam masala, crushed red pepper, paprika, cardamom, salt, turmeric, almonds, and yogurt in a bowl. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.

How to caramelize the onions: In a large cast iron or heavy skillet, heat the canola oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are just caramelized.

How to cook the chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

How to finish the dish: Add the heavy cream to the skillet with the chicken and mix well. Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

How To Make Indian Chicken Korma

Tender chicken in creamy and flavorful curry sauce seasoned with a special blend of spices. This Indian chicken korma recipe is delighful weekend dinner.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6chicken thighsboneless and skinless
2tbsptomato paste
1tbspfresh gingerpeeled
2garlic cloves
1tbspgaram masala
¼tspred peppercrushed
½tsppaprika
1tspcardamomground
½tspkosher salt
½tspturmeric
½cupalmonds
¾cupGreek yogurt
1tbspcanola oil
3tbspbutter
1yellow oniondiced
¼cupheavy cream

Instructions

Cut the chicken thighs into small 1 ½ to 2 inch chunks and put them in a large bowl.
Add the tomato paste, ginger, garlic, garam masala, crushed red pepper, paprika, cardamom, salt, turmeric, and almonds into a food processor on high speed until completely smooth.
Add the mixture to the bowl with the chicken along with the yogurt and mix well.
Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
Add the canola oil and butter to a large cast iron skillet or heavy skillet on medium high heat.
Add the onions and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until just caramelized.
Add in the chicken and cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Add the heavy cream to the skillet and mix well, cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 978.93kcal
Fat: 77.82g
Saturated Fat: 24.79g
Trans Fat: 0.61g
Monounsaturated Fat: 31.81g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 13.84g
Carbohydrates: 13.82g
Fiber: 3.81g
Sugar: 5.37g
Protein: 56.98g
Cholesterol: 334.17mg
Sodium: 568.32mg
Calcium: 142.88mg
Potassium: 910.37mg
Iron: 3.42mg
Vitamin A: 214.44µg
Vitamin C: 5.64mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Indian Chicken Korma

When marinating the chicken in the yogurt and spice mixture, ensure that all pieces are well coated. This will not only infuse the chicken with the rich flavors of the spices, but the acid in the yogurt will also help to tenderize the chicken, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful dish. Additionally, don't rush the caramelization of the onions. This process brings out their natural sweetness, adding a depth of flavor to the final dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Indian Chicken Korma Recipe

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken and prepare the spice paste the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pot cooking: Use a large skillet or pot to cook the entire dish in one go, minimizing clean-up and saving time.

Pre-sliced ingredients: Purchase pre-sliced onions and pre-peeled garlic to cut down on prep time.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly blend the spice paste, saving time and effort compared to manual grinding.

Multi-task: While the chicken is marinating, use that time to prepare any side dishes or accompaniments for the meal.

Substitute Ingredients For Indian Chicken Korma Recipe

chicken thighs – Substitute with bone-in chicken pieces: Bone-in chicken pieces can provide a similar flavor and texture to chicken thighs in the korma recipe.
greek yogurt – Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, which can complement the flavors in the korma recipe.
canola oil – Substitute with ghee: Ghee can add a rich, nutty flavor to the dish and is commonly used in Indian cuisine.
yellow onion – Substitute with white onion: White onions can provide a slightly milder flavor compared to yellow onions, and they can work well in the korma recipe.
heavy cream – Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can add a creamy richness to the dish and complement the spices in the korma recipe.

Best Way to Present Chicken Korma

Elevate the plating: Arrange the cooked chicken korma in a circular motion on a large, white, round plate, ensuring each piece is visible and appealing.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro and mint over the chicken korma to add a pop of color and a fresh aroma to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Place a small mound of toasted, crushed almonds on the side of the plate to add a delightful crunch to each bite.
Accentuate with a drizzle: Using a squeeze bottle, drizzle a swirl of heavy cream around the edge of the plate, creating an artistic and elegant touch to the presentation.
Add a touch of spice: Sprinkle a pinch of garam masala over the dish to enhance the aroma and add a final burst of flavor to the chicken korma.

Essential Tools for Making Indian Chicken Korma

Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface for cutting, chopping, and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife for slicing, dicing, and chopping.
Food processor: Used for blending, pureeing, and grinding ingredients to a smooth consistency.
Large bowl: For mixing and marinating ingredients.
Cast iron skillet or heavy skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken and onions evenly and retaining heat.
Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing ingredients while cooking.
Measuring spoons: To accurately measure and add spices and seasonings.
Skillet: For cooking the chicken and onions.
Tongs: Used for flipping and turning the chicken pieces while cooking.
Spatula: For stirring and scraping the skillet while cooking.
Food processor: To blend and process the spice and almond mixture.

Storing and Freezing Indian Chicken Korma

Once the chicken korma has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
If using a container, leave about an inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification later.
Place the container or bag in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen korma in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed or refrigerated korma in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. You may need to add a splash of water or cream to adjust the consistency if it has thickened during storage.
For best results, avoid repeatedly freezing and thawing the korma, as this can affect its texture and flavor.
If you plan to freeze the korma, consider cooking the chicken slightly less than usual, as it will continue to cook when reheated.
Freeze the korma in smaller portions for more convenient thawing and reheating, especially if you don't plan to consume the entire batch at once.

How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Korma

To reheat leftover indian chicken korma, the best method is to use a microwave. Place the desired amount of korma in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the korma is heated through and the chicken is warm. This method helps to retain the moisture in the dish and prevents it from drying out.
Another great way to reheat indian chicken korma is on the stovetop. Transfer the korma to a saucepan and add a splash of heavy cream or yogurt to help loosen the sauce. Heat the korma over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it is warmed through and the chicken is hot. This method allows you to adjust the consistency of the sauce and add more spices if desired.
If you prefer a crispy texture on your reheated chicken, you can use an oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the korma to an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the korma is heated through and the chicken is warm. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can also use an air fryer. Place the leftover indian chicken korma in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the korma is heated through and the chicken is crispy on the outside.

Fascinating Fact About Chicken Korma

The Indian Chicken Korma recipe is a flavorful dish that combines aromatic spices and tender chicken. This traditional dish features a blend of garam masala, cardamom, and turmeric to create a rich and fragrant sauce. The use of almonds and yogurt adds a creamy texture to the dish, while the caramelized onions provide a sweet and savory flavor. This recipe is a popular choice for those seeking a delicious and comforting Indian meal.

Is Making Chicken Korma at Home Cost-Effective?

This Indian chicken korma recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like chicken thighs, spices, and yogurt makes it budget-friendly. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal for the family. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it an economical choice for a delicious and hearty meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Chicken Korma Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Indian chicken korma recipe is a flavorful and aromatic dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The recipe uses chicken thighs, which are higher in fat compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast.
The dish contains a significant amount of butter and heavy cream, which are high in saturated fat and calories.
The almonds, while nutritious, also contribute to the overall calorie and fat content of the dish.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:

Ginger and garlic, which have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Spices like garam masala, paprika, cardamom, and turmeric, which are rich in antioxidants and have potential health benefits.
Greek yogurt, which provides protein and beneficial probiotics.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for skinless chicken breast instead of thighs to reduce the fat content.
Reduce the amount of butter used, or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or ghee.
Use light coconut milk instead of heavy cream to lower the calorie and saturated fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture.
Increase the proportion of onions and add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to boost the nutritional value of the dish.
Serve the korma with brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.
Adjust the amount of almonds used, or replace them with a smaller quantity of cashews or pistachios to reduce the calorie and fat content while still providing a nutty flavor and texture.

Editor's Opinion on This Chicken Korma Recipe

The Indian chicken korma recipe you provided is a delightful combination of aromatic spices and creamy textures. The use of garam masala, cardamom, and turmeric creates a rich and flavorful marinade for the chicken. The addition of almonds and Greek yogurt adds a luxurious creaminess to the dish. The caramelized onions and heavy cream bring a depth of flavor and richness to the final dish. Overall, this recipe promises to deliver a delicious and authentic Indian chicken korma that will surely impress anyone who tries it.

Enhance Your Indian Chicken Korma Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Naan: Create a fluffy and flavorful garlic naan to soak up the delicious korma sauce.

Mango Lassi: Whip up a refreshing and creamy mango lassi to complement the spicy flavors of the korma.

Cucumber Raita: Prepare a cooling and tangy cucumber raita to balance out the richness of the chicken korma.

Delicious Alternatives to Indian Chicken Korma Recipe

Spicy Beef Stir Fry: This spicy beef stir fry is a quick and easy dish that is packed with flavor. The combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a spicy sauce makes for a delicious meal.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This mango salsa chicken is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer. The sweet and tangy mango salsa pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy chicken, creating a dish that is sure to impress.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The rich and creamy risotto is packed with earthy mushrooms and savory flavors, making it a delicious and indulgent meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Indian Chicken Korma

Appetizers:

Spicy Chicken Wings: These spicy chicken wings are the perfect appetizer to kick off your meal. The combination of heat and flavor will leave your guests wanting more. Serve with a side of cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing for the perfect balance.

Stuffed Mushrooms: These stuffed mushrooms are a savory and satisfying appetizer that will impress your guests. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling. Sprinkle with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is the perfect way to end a dinner party or special occasion.

Lemon Tart: Savor the tangy and refreshing flavor of a lemon tart, with a buttery crust and a smooth, zesty filling. Garnish with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful and delicious dessert.

Why trust this Indian Chicken Korma Recipe:

This Indian Chicken Korma Recipe is a delightful blend of aromatic spices and tender chicken, creating a rich and flavorful dish. The use of garam masala, cardamom, and turmeric infuses the dish with authentic Indian flavors. The inclusion of almonds adds a delightful nuttiness, while the Greek yogurt ensures a creamy and luscious texture. The step-by-step instructions and use of traditional cooking techniques showcase the authenticity and expertise behind this recipe. With its carefully curated ingredients and precise cooking methods, this recipe promises to deliver an exquisite Indian culinary experience that users can trust and savor.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Indian Chicken Korma recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

What is the best way to serve Indian chicken korma?

Indian chicken korma is best served with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread. The creamy and flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with the rice or bread.

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs in this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as chicken breast tends to cook faster than thighs.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, or paneer to make a delicious vegetarian korma.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the korma ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The flavors tend to develop even more if the dish is made a day in advance.

How spicy is this dish?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of red pepper used. The recipe as is, has a mild to moderate level of heat.