The Ultimate Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe You’ll Adore

Whipping up a delightful chicken korma with minimal effort transforms an ordinary weeknight meal into something special.

slow cookers make complex Indian dishes incredibly approachable for home cooks.

Tender chicken bathes in a creamy, aromatic sauce that hints at exotic spice blends.

Fragrant cardamom and ginger dance together, creating layers of incredible flavor without demanding advanced culinary skills.

Rich coconut milk softens the sauce, giving each bite a luxurious texture that feels indulgent yet simple.

Minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques mean you can enjoy restaurant-quality cuisine right in your kitchen.

Let’s unlock this delicious journey that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of india.

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma: Comfort in a Bowl

• Minimal prep work and hands-off cooking make this chicken korma a breeze for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Layered spices and aromatics create a rich, complex taste that brings the warmth of Indian cuisine directly to your dining table with minimal culinary expertise required.
• Mild and creamy sauce appeals to both adults and kids, making it a perfect meal that satisfies everyone's taste buds without being too spicy or challenging.
• Packed with protein from chicken, healthy fats from coconut milk, and aromatic spices that offer both flavor and potential health benefits, this dish is a nutritional powerhouse that simplifies mealtime.

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Korma

• Chicken Thighs: A tender and flavorful cut of meat that becomes wonderfully soft when slow-cooked.

• Onions, Garlic, Ginger: A classic flavor base that provides depth and warmth to the dish.
• Garam Masala, Turmeric, Cumin, Chili Powder: A blend of spices that creates the signature complex and rich korma flavor profile.

• Coconut Milk: Adds a smooth, rich texture and subtle sweetness to the sauce.
• Yogurt: Provides a tangy creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken.

• Olive Oil, Ghee: Helps to sauté the aromatics and adds a rich background flavor.

• Ground Nuts: Contributes a nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• Fresh Cilantro: A bright, fresh herb that adds a pop of color and herbaceous flavor to the finished dish.

• Basmati Rice, Naan: Traditional accompaniments that complement the korma's creamy sauce.

How to Layer Flavors in the Slow Cooker

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Pieces

Slice chicken thighs into small, bite-sized chunks that will absorb all the delicious flavors.

Set aside on a clean cutting board.

Step 2: Create Aromatic Base

Heat olive oil or ghee in a skillet over medium temperature.

Add finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger.

Sauté until the mixture turns soft and develops a golden color, releasing wonderful fragrant notes (approximately 5-7 minutes).

Step 3: Infuse Spice Blend

• Garam masala
• Turmeric
• Cumin
• Chili powder

Stir continuously for one minute to activate and release the deep, complex spice aromas.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients In Slow Cooker

Transfer the spiced aromatic mixture into the slow cooker.

• Prepared chicken pieces
• Creamy coconut milk
• Crushed nuts
• Tangy yogurt

Gently mix all ingredients to ensure even distribution.

Step 5: Slow Cook To Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and let magic happen.

Cook on low setting for 6-7 hours or high setting for 3-4 hours until chicken becomes incredibly tender and fully cooked.

Step 6: Final Touch And Serving

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top.

Serve alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm, soft naan bread.

Enjoy your homemade korma!

Tips for Rich, Creamy Chicken Korma

• Toast whole spices before adding to the slow cooker to release their essential oils and intensify the korma's aromatic profile.
• Swap chicken thighs with chicken breasts or cubed lamb for varied texture and taste preferences while maintaining similar cooking times.
• Temper the yogurt by slowly mixing a small amount of hot liquid from the slow cooker before adding it to prevent separation and ensure smooth sauce consistency.
• Adjust chili powder quantity or use mild paprika for less heat, or add fresh green chilies for extra kick without overwhelming the delicate korma flavors.
• Replace yogurt and coconut milk with cashew cream or almond milk yogurt to create a lactose-free version that maintains the creamy traditional korma texture.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Korma

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping chicken korma fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled chicken korma to freezer-safe containers, sealing tightly to prevent freezer burn. Frozen korma maintains quality for up to 3 months.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, cover with microwave-safe lid, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Pour chicken korma into a saucepan, add splash of water or coconut milk to prevent drying, warm over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Naan and Rice Pairings for Chicken Korma

• Spice-Matched Wine Pairing: Select a slightly sweet Riesling or Gewürztraminer to complement the rich, creamy korma flavors and balance the aromatic spices.
• Cooling Beverage Companion: Prepare a refreshing mango lassi to counteract the dish's warmth, offering a smooth, sweet contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.
• Textural Rice Enhancement: Serve with fragrant basmati rice studded with toasted cashews or almonds to echo the nutty undertones of the korma and provide delightful crunch.
• Herbal Drink Option: Brew a light ginger tea that will cleanse the palate and support digestion while harmonizing with the chicken korma's complex spice profile.

Variations on Chicken Korma Spice Levels

• Vegetarian Korma: Replace chicken with firm tofu, paneer, or mixed vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, and peas. Adjust cooking time to prevent overcooking vegetables.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap yogurt with coconut yogurt and use cashew cream instead of dairy-based ingredients. This maintains the creamy texture while accommodating lactose-intolerant diets.
• Protein-Packed Version: Add chickpeas or lentils alongside chicken for extra protein and fiber. This boosts nutritional value and creates a heartier meal.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Skip rice and serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Use almond flour instead of ground nuts to reduce carbohydrate content.

FAQs

• Is chicken korma spicy?

Traditional chicken korma is mild and creamy, not typically spicy. This recipe offers a gentle warmth with minimal heat, perfect for those who prefer subtle flavor profiles.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but thighs provide more moisture and tenderness. If using breasts, reduce cooking time to prevent drying out and ensure they remain juicy.

• Do I need to brown the chicken before slow cooking?

While optional, sautéing the aromatics first enhances the depth of flavor. Browning isn’t mandatory but recommended for richer taste and more complex flavor development.

• What kind of nuts work best in korma?

Cashews are traditional and ideal, but almonds also work wonderfully. Ensure nuts are ground finely to create a smooth, creamy sauce characteristic of authentic korma.

Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe

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4.6 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Savory chicken korma delights palates with creamy Indian spices and tender meat slow-cooked to perfection. Gentle aromatics and rich sauce invite home cooks to savor authentic flavors without complex kitchen techniques.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 2 lbs (907 grams) chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)

Spices:

• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
• Salt to taste

Vegetables and Other Ingredients:

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup ground almonds or cashews
• 1/4 cup yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare chicken thighs by cutting into uniform bite-sized chunks, ensuring even cooking and tender texture.
2. Heat olive oil or ghee in a skillet over medium temperature, creating a golden base for developing rich flavors.
3. Sauté finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger until translucent and fragrant, approximately 5-6 minutes.
4. Introduce aromatic spices like garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and optional chili powder, allowing them to bloom and release intense flavors for about 60 seconds.
5. Transfer spiced aromatics into slow cooker, creating a flavorful foundation for the dish.
6. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
7. Pour coconut milk and incorporate ground nuts and yogurt, stirring gently to create a creamy, cohesive sauce.
8. Cover slow cooker and cook on low setting for 6-7 hours or high setting for 3-4 hours, allowing chicken to become exceptionally tender.
9. Once cooking is complete, verify chicken is fully cooked and sauce has reached desired consistency.
10. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro as a vibrant garnish, enhancing visual appeal and adding a bright, herbal note.
11. Serve piping hot alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Notes

• Boost flavor by marinating chicken in yogurt and spices for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance tenderness and depth of taste.
• Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing chili powder, making the dish mild or fiery according to personal preference.
• Replace chicken thighs with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version that maintains the creamy, rich korma texture and profile.
• Toast ground nuts briefly before adding to the slow cooker to release their natural oils and intensify the nutty undertones of the dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours (on high) or 6 hours (on low)
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 396
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg