If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice is just what you need. This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The aroma of spices and tender chicken simmering on the stove fills the kitchen with an irresistible fragrance, making it hard to resist serving seconds!

What I love most about this korma is its creamy texture and flavorful spices—it’s like a warm hug on a plate. Even if your cooking skills are minimal, this recipe is straightforward enough to tackle, yet impressive enough to wow your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Family-friendly: The mild spices appeal to all ages, making it a hit for everyone at the dinner table.
Make-ahead friendly: You can easily prepare this korma in advance and reheat it for those busy days.
Versatile options: Pair it with rice or flatbreads for a personalized touch that suits your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. You might even have most of them already 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

One of the best parts of this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma is its flexibility! You can easily make adjustments based on what you have at home or your family’s tastes.

Swap the protein: Try using diced lamb or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Add some veggies: Toss in peas or spinach during the simmering stage for extra nutrition.
Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add more chili powder or some sliced green chilies!
Change the nut base: Use cashew cream instead of coconut cream for a rich twist.

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 is crucial because sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness, laying a perfect flavor foundation for your korma.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is sealed and lightly golden. This browning process locks in moisture and adds depth to your dish.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Now it’s time to stir in 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 step really brings those fragrant spices into play!

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Add in yogurt, coconut cream, ground almonds, and sugar. Stir everything together until combined. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil before reducing heat and letting it simmer for 6–8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. This simmering allows all those amazing flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Stir in double cream gently before removing from heat. This final touch adds richness and rounds out all those wonderful flavors we’ve built up throughout cooking.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon your luscious korma over fluffy rice or serve alongside warm flatbread. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh coriander! Your Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice is now ready to be enjoyed by family and friends—time to dig in!

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 helpful tips!

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and spices will enhance the flavors of your korma significantly, making it taste more vibrant and aromatic.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to omit the mild chili powder or adjust the amount according to your preference. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish comfortably.
Let it Simmer: Allowing the korma to simmer for a bit longer helps meld the flavors together beautifully. Just be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should remain tender and juicy.
Experiment with Nuts: If you want to switch things up, try using cashews or peanuts instead of ground almonds for a different flavor profile. Each nut brings its own unique creaminess and taste.
Make It Ahead: This dish actually tastes even better the next day! Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to deepen, so don’t hesitate to make a batch for meal prep.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice

Serving your Chicken Korma is as delightful as preparing it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

Fresh Coriander: Chopped fresh coriander adds a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note that brightens the rich flavors of the korma.
Sliced Red Onions: Thinly sliced red onions not only provide a crunchy texture but also add a sharp contrast that complements the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

Boiled Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is classic and absorbs all those lovely korma flavors perfectly, making every bite satisfying.
Chapati or Naan: These soft flatbreads are perfect for scooping up the korma, adding an enjoyable texture and taste to your meal.
Cucumber Raita: A cool cucumber raita made from yogurt helps balance the spices while offering a refreshing side that enhances your dining experience.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate, creating a well-rounded meal that’s visually appealing.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy your easy homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Homemade Chicken Korma is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while providing you with a convenient meal option throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the korma to cool completely before storing.
Transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Portion the korma into freezer-safe containers.
Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Label each container with the date for your reference.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while preparing your chicken korma!

Can I make this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma with Flatbread or Rice in advance?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge or freezer as outlined above.

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

You can enjoy this flavorful korma over boiled rice or alongside warm flatbreads like chapati or naan for a comforting meal.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or paneer for a tasty vegetarian version of korma. Adjust cooking times accordingly!

How spicy is this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The optional mild chili powder adds a gentle warmth but feel free to omit it if you prefer a milder dish.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you fall in love with this Easy Homemade Chicken Korma just as much as I have! It’s not only comforting and satisfying but also brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!