Indulge your palate with our exquisite collection of 8+ Chicken Korma recipes that promise to transport curry enthusiasts to the heart of authentic Indian cuisine. This beloved South Asian dish features succulent chicken pieces bathed in a rich, aromatic gravy made from ground almonds, yogurt, and a harmonious blend of fragrant spices including cardamom, cinnamon, and turmeric. Whether you prefer the traditional Mughlai-style korma with its delicate cashew cream base or a contemporary twist featuring coconut milk for added tropical notes, these recipes deliver the perfect balance of mild heat and complex flavors that korma is celebrated for worldwide.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these chicken korma variations cater to every culinary preference and dietary requirement. From restaurant-style preparations with luxuriously thick gravies to healthier, lighter adaptations that don’t compromise on taste, each recipe has been carefully curated to ensure fool-proof results in your home kitchen. Accompany your homemade korma with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread, or buttery paratha to create a complete Indian feast that will impress even the most discerning curry connoisseurs. Discover how simple techniques and readily available ingredients can help you master this classic North Indian delicacy that continues to captivate food lovers across the globe.
Tasty 8+ Chicken Korma Recipes for Curry Lovers
Chicken Korma, a beloved curry dish, offers a rich tapestry of flavors that combine aromatic spices with creamy textures for a truly satisfying meal. The beauty of Korma lies in its versatility, allowing home cooks to experiment with different ingredients while maintaining the dish’s signature mild, nutty profile. Traditional recipes often feature bone-in chicken pieces that remain tender and juicy throughout the cooking process, though boneless alternatives work wonderfully for those preferring convenience. The fragrant sauce, typically made with yogurt, cream, or coconut milk, creates a velvety consistency that perfectly coats each piece of meat and absorbs into accompanying rice or naan. Many regional variations exist across India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, each adding unique touches that reflect local culinary traditions and available ingredients. Whether you prefer a restaurant-style richness or a lighter homemade version, mastering a good Korma recipe is essential for any curry enthusiast’s repertoire. The following collection of Korma recipes showcases this diverse dish’s adaptability while maintaining its soul-warming essence that has made it a global favorite.
1. Classic North Indian Chicken Korma with cashews and cardamom
2. Quick Instant Pot Chicken Korma ready in under 30 minutes
3. Coconut Chicken Korma with a tropical twist
4. Low-carb Cauliflower Rice Chicken Korma Bowl
5. Slow Cooker Chicken Korma for busy weeknights
6. Spicy Chicken Korma with added chili for heat lovers
7. Almond Chicken Korma with saffron and golden raisins
8. Family-friendly Mild Chicken Korma perfect for children
9. Restaurant-style Chicken Korma with cream and ghee
10. Healthy Yogurt-based Chicken Korma with reduced fat
11. Keto-friendly Chicken Korma without the traditional sugar
12. One-pot Vegetable and Chicken Korma complete meal
Quick 30-Minute Chicken Korma for Busy Weeknights
For those hectic weekdays when cooking time is limited but your craving for Indian cuisine persists, this simplified chicken korma recipe is your perfect solution. Ready in just half an hour, this streamlined version maintains the authentic flavors of a traditional korma while eliminating time-consuming steps. The recipe uses pre-ground spices and store-bought korma paste to significantly reduce preparation time without compromising on taste. Boneless chicken thighs cook quickly and remain tender, even with the shortened cooking duration. A food processor quickly breaks down the onions, ginger, and garlic, eliminating tedious chopping and creating a smooth sauce base in seconds. Using canned coconut milk eliminates the traditional steps of making fresh coconut milk or cream from scratch. This version pairs beautifully with quick-cooking basmati rice or store-bought naan for a complete meal that feels special despite the minimal time investment.
1. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
2. Substitute store-bought korma paste to save preparation time
3. Opt for pre-ground spices instead of toasting and grinding whole spices
4. Pulse onion, ginger and garlic in a food processor until smooth
5. Cook chicken at higher heat to reduce cooking time
6. Use canned full-fat coconut milk for instant creaminess
7. Skip the marination step to save time
8. Choose microwave-in-bag rice or quick-cooking basmati varieties
9. Prepare the sauce while the rice cooks for maximum efficiency
10. Use frozen pre-chopped onions to eliminate cutting time
11. Add pre-roasted cashews instead of raw ones that need toasting
12. Incorporate pre-minced garlic and ginger from jars
13. Substitute Greek yogurt for traditional yogurt to add instant creaminess
14. Add a squeeze of lemon at the end instead of slow-simmering for tanginess
15. Use store-bought naan warmed in the oven for 2 minutes
16. Garnish with pre-chopped cilantro from the produce section
17. Prepare larger batches and freeze portions for future quick meals
18. Use an electric pressure cooker for even faster cooking time
Healthy Yogurt-Based Chicken Korma Without Cream
Are you craving a delicious chicken korma but want to avoid the heavy calories from cream? Our healthy yogurt-based chicken korma offers all the rich, aromatic flavors you love without the guilt of traditional recipes. By substituting cream with protein-packed yogurt, you’ll enjoy a lighter version that doesn’t sacrifice the signature velvety texture that makes korma so irresistible. This smart swap not only reduces the fat content significantly but also adds a pleasant tanginess that beautifully balances the warm spices. Perfect for health-conscious food lovers, this recipe proves that comfort food classics can be transformed into nutritious weeknight meals without compromising on taste. You’ll be amazed at how the yogurt creates that signature korma creaminess while adding beneficial probiotics to your meal. Whether you’re watching your calorie intake or simply prefer lighter curries, this yogurt-based chicken korma will quickly become your new go-to recipe.
• Use Greek yogurt for extra protein and a thicker, creamier sauce
• Marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes for tender meat
• Toast your spices before adding other ingredients to enhance their flavors
• Choose low-fat yogurt to further reduce calories while maintaining creaminess
• Add a tablespoon of ground almonds to thicken the sauce naturally
• Include turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties and golden color
• Incorporate fresh ginger and garlic for authentic flavor and health benefits
• Balance the tanginess of yogurt with a small amount of honey or coconut sugar
• Allow the yogurt sauce to simmer gently to prevent curdling
• Finish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for brightness and vitamin C
Slow Cooker Chicken Korma: Set It and Forget It
Get ready to fall in love with the easiest chicken korma you’ll ever make – no standing over the stove required! Simply toss your ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a rich, aromatic korma that tastes like it came from your favorite Indian restaurant. The slow cooking process allows the spices to meld together beautifully, creating deep layers of flavor that simply can’t be rushed. Your chicken will become incredibly tender, practically falling apart with each bite. The best part is that your house will be filled with the most incredible aroma all day long, making everyone ask „what’s for dinner?“ This method is perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to stand over a pot, but still want something homemade and delicious. Trust me, once you try this set-it-and-forget-it method, you’ll never go back to stovetop korma again!
Here’s everything you need to know for perfect slow cooker chicken korma:
1. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the most tender results
2. Brown the chicken briefly before adding to the slow cooker for enhanced flavor
3. Bloom your spices in a pan with a little oil before adding to intensify the flavor profile
4. Add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or cauliflower for a complete one-pot meal
5. Full-fat coconut milk works best for a rich, creamy sauce
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours
7. Stir in yogurt during the last 30 minutes of cooking
8. Adding a cornstarch slurry at the end helps thicken the sauce if needed
9. Don’t skip the ground almonds or cashews—they’re essential for authentic texture
10. Fresh ginger and garlic make a world of difference compared to pre-minced versions
11. Add a cinnamon stick and whole cardamom pods for aromatic depth
12. Stir in a spoonful of mango chutney for subtle sweetness
13. Fresh cilantro added at the end brightens the whole dish
14. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving balances the richness
15. Let the finished korma rest for 10 minutes before serving for flavors to settle
16. Serve with basmati rice or naan bread for soaking up the delicious sauce
17. Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors continue to develop
18. Freeze portions for up to three months for easy meal prep
19. For a creamier finish, stir in a tablespoon of butter just before serving
Spicy Chicken Korma with Extra Chili Kick
Ready to transform your dinner table with a fiery twist on a classic? Our Spicy Chicken Korma with Extra Chili Kick takes the beloved creamy korma to explosive new heights while maintaining that rich, aromatic base you crave. You’ll experience the perfect balance of heat and flavor as the chilies dance with traditional korma spices without overpowering the dish’s signature creaminess. This recipe is perfect for spice enthusiasts who find traditional korma too mild but still appreciate its luxurious texture and complex flavor profile. The secret lies in selecting the right combination of chilies that add heat gradually, building with each bite rather than assaulting your taste buds immediately. What makes this version truly special is how the additional heat actually enhances the other flavors, bringing out nuances in the spices that might otherwise remain subtle in a traditional korma. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to spice up your weeknight meals, this fiery korma variation will impress even the most discerning spice lovers in your life.
1. Use fresh green chilies with seeds intact for maximum heat
2. Add dried red chili flakes during the initial tempering stage
3. Include 1-2 finely chopped bird’s eye chilies for intense heat pockets
4. Balance with extra cashews to maintain korma’s creamy character
5. Marinate chicken with chili paste for deeper heat penetration
6. Toast dried chilies before grinding for enhanced flavor
7. Add a teaspoon of hot chili oil as a finishing touch
8. Include black pepper alongside traditional korma spices
9. Use cayenne pepper in your spice blend
10. Incorporate a spoonful of hot mango pickle into the gravy
11. Choose bone-in chicken thighs for richer flavor against the heat
12. Add a splash of vinegar-based hot sauce for tangy heat
13. Garnish with thinly sliced serrano peppers for visual appeal
14. Temper the heat with an extra splash of coconut cream
15. Use kashmiri chili powder for color and moderate heat
16. Serve with cooling cucumber raita on the side
17. Pair with garlic naan to complement the spicy flavors
18. Introduce ginger in larger quantities than traditional korma
19. Finish with fresh cilantro to brighten the spicy dish
20. Add a pinch of garam masala at the end for aromatic balance
21. Create a chili-infused ghee for frying the initial spices
Coconut Chicken Korma: A South Indian Twist
Experience the vibrant flavors of South India with this delectable Coconut Chicken Korma that puts a unique twist on the classic recipe you know and love. Unlike the creamy, nut-based kormas from Northern India, this South Indian variation celebrates the tropical essence of coconut, creating a lighter yet equally satisfying curry. You’ll find the sauce is silkier and more aromatic, with the coconut milk providing a subtle sweetness that beautifully balances the warming spices. Fresh curry leaves, a staple in South Indian cooking, add an unmistakable herbal fragrance that transforms your korma into something truly special. This regional adaptation maintains the tender chicken pieces and rich flavor profile of traditional korma while introducing coastal elements that transport your taste buds to Kerala’s lush landscapes. The coconut-infused sauce pairs perfectly with flaky parotta bread or steamed rice, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re looking to expand your curry repertoire or simply craving something different, this South Indian coconut chicken korma delivers authentic flavors in a refreshingly unique way.
1. Use fresh coconut milk instead of cream for authenticity
2. Toast dried red chilies for added depth
3. Incorporate curry leaves for true South Indian flavor
4. Add a splash of coconut vinegar for tanginess
5. Use mustard seeds in the tempering process
6. Include a tablespoon of freshly ground black pepper
7. Toast grated coconut until golden brown before grinding
8. Balance with a touch of jaggery or palm sugar
9. Use bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor
10. Add a handful of shallots rather than regular onions
11. Include a tablespoon of tamarind paste for complexity
12. Garnish with crispy fried curry leaves
13. Use coconut oil for authentic coastal flavor
14. Add star anise for subtle licorice notes
15. Include a touch of turmeric for golden color
16. Layer flavors with fennel seeds and cinnamon
17. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice
18. Prepare a day ahead for deeper flavor development
19. Incorporate coconut cream for extra richness
20. Add diced tomato for slight acidity
21. Include ginger-garlic paste for aromatic base
22. Simmer slowly to develop complex flavors
23. Garnish with freshly grated coconut
24. Pair with appam (rice pancakes) for authentic serving
25. Adjust spice levels with green chilies to taste
Vegan „Chicken“ Korma with Plant-Based Alternatives
Looking for a sumptuous vegan alternative to the classic chicken korma? This creamy, aromatic vegan „chicken“ korma delivers all the authentic flavors you love while being completely plant-based. You’ll be amazed at how deliciously similar to traditional korma this dish tastes, with its rich, velvety sauce and protein-packed meat alternatives. The secret lies in using the perfect plant-based chicken substitute combined with the same aromatic spice blend that makes traditional korma so irresistible. Even die-hard meat lovers won’t miss the chicken when they taste this luxuriously creamy curry that maintains all the depth and complexity of the original. The coconut milk base creates that signature korma creaminess while keeping the dish entirely dairy-free. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to reduce your meat consumption, this recipe proves you don’t need to sacrifice flavor or tradition to enjoy a spectacular korma experience.
1. Firm tofu (pressed and cubed) absorbs the korma spices beautifully
2. Seitan chunks provide a chewy, meat-like texture
3. Soy curls rehydrated in vegetable broth offer excellent flavor absorption
4. Tempeh adds a nutty undertone and substantial texture
5. Cauliflower florets work wonderfully with the creamy sauce
6. Jackfruit shreds mimic the texture of pulled chicken
7. Plant-based chicken alternatives (like Quorn or Gardein) offer convenience
8. Chickpeas provide protein and complement the korma spices
9. Coconut milk creates the perfect creamy base without dairy
10. Cashew cream adds richness and helps thicken the sauce
11. Nutritional yeast provides a subtle umami flavor boost
12. Vegan yogurt adds tanginess similar to traditional korma
13. Almond butter enhances the nutty flavor profile of traditional korma
14. Pea protein chunks absorb flavors while maintaining texture
Royal Mughlai Chicken Korma with Nuts and Dried Fruits
Indulge in the majestic flavors of this Royal Mughlai Chicken Korma, a dish that truly embodies the opulence of imperial Mughal cuisine with its rich, aromatic gravy loaded with nuts and dried fruits. You’ll be amazed at how the tender chicken pieces absorb the complex spice blend while swimming in a velvety sauce that strikes the perfect balance between savory and subtly sweet notes. The addition of premium nuts and dried fruits elevates this korma from an everyday meal to a regal feast worthy of emperors and modern dinner guests alike. What makes this version truly special is the layering of flavors—toasted nuts provide crunch, while dried apricots, prunes, and raisins melt into the sauce, creating pockets of natural sweetness that complement the aromatic spices. This recipe has been perfected through generations of royal khansamas (court cooks) who understood that true Mughlai cooking requires patience, quality ingredients, and attention to detail. When you serve this showstopper at your next gathering, prepare for wide eyes and appreciative silence as your guests experience their first heavenly spoonful. The beauty of this Royal Mughlai Chicken Korma is that while it tastes incredibly complex, you can master it at home with these detailed instructions and a little extra care.
1. Bone-in chicken pieces (preferably thighs and legs for more flavor)
2. Cashews, almonds, and pistachios (both in the paste and as garnish)
3. Golden raisins, dried apricots, and dried prunes (chopped)
4. Whole spices (bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, green cardamom pods)
5. Freshly ground korma spice blend (cardamom, cinnamon, cloves)
6. Caramelized onions (fried until deep golden brown)
7. Fresh ginger-garlic paste (homemade for best results)
8. Yogurt (full-fat, whisked until smooth)
9. Heavy cream for richness and silky texture
10. Kewra water (screw pine essence) for authentic Mughlai aroma
11. Saffron strands soaked in warm milk
12. Ghee (clarified butter) for authentic flavor
13. Rose water (just a few drops)
14. White poppy seed paste for thickening
15. Green chilies (slit for adjustable heat level)
16. Fresh cilantro and mint leaves for brightness
17. Edible silver varq (optional, for traditional royal presentation)
