Delicious slow cooker chicken korma dish with spices and creamy sauce

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Korma is a popular dish known for its rich, comforting flavors. Making it in a slow cooker means you can enjoy tender, juicy chicken without spending hours at the stove. The slow cooker does all the work for you. Plus, this recipe combines the creamy texture of yogurt and coconut milk with aromatic spices, creating a mouthwatering sauce that pairs perfectly with rice or bread. It's a great option for family dinners or special occasions.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

Making Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is easy. Just follow these steps:

Ingredients:

175 g full-fat Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
¼ teaspoon mild or medium curry powder
2 teaspoon turmeric (divided)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon chili flakes
Zest of 1 lemon
1 kg boneless, skinless chicken thighs, halved
Salt and pepper (to season)
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 shallot, finely chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
2-inch piece of fresh ginger, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more if needed)
4 tablespoon tomato paste
400 ml full-fat coconut milk

Directions:

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, curry powder, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, chili powder, chili flakes, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add the chicken thighs and coat them with the marinade. Let this sit for at least 30 minutes, or if possible, in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
Brown the Chicken: If you have time, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches and brown it on all sides. This step adds flavor but is optional if you are short on time.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion, shallot, garlic, and ginger until they soften and smell fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Build the Sauce: Stir in the remaining turmeric and the tomato paste. Cook for a couple of minutes, then pour in the coconut milk. Stir well to combine everything.
Slow Cook: Transfer the chicken and sauce mixture into your slow cooker. Make sure everything is mixed well. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
Serve: When the cooking time is up, check the seasoning. Adjust with salt and pepper if needed, and serve the korma hot over rice or with naan.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

Serve the Chicken Korma hot. You can plate it over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or alongside warm naan bread. You can also sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness. A side salad with cucumber and tomatoes adds a nice crunch and balances out the richness of the dish.

How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it. Place the korma in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

Marination: The longer you marinate the chicken, the better the flavor will be. Overnight is best.
Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder and chili flakes to suit your taste. If you like it spicier, add more!
Add Vegetables: You can throw in some vegetables like peas or bell peppers for additional nutrition.
Creamier Korma: For a creamier sauce, you can add a bit more coconut milk or a splash of cream before serving.

Variation

You can change up the recipe by switching the protein. Instead of chicken thighs, try using chicken breast, lamb, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. The cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the protein used.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use low-fat yogurt for the marinade?
A1: Yes, but using full-fat yogurt will give a creamier texture and richer flavor.

Q2: Is it necessary to brown the chicken?
A2: No, browning is optional, but it adds extra flavor. You can skip this step if you're short on time.

Q3: Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
A3: Yes, you can use a regular pot on the stove. Just simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes to an hour until the chicken is cooked through.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is a delicious and easy recipe that anyone can make. The slow cooking brings out the flavors and makes the chicken incredibly tender. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll impress your family and friends with this beautiful dish. Enjoy your cooking adventure with Chicken Korma!