Creamy Spiced Chicken Korma Recipe

Indulge in the aromatic wonders of Indian cuisine with this tantalizing Chicken Korma Creamy Spiced recipe. An enchanting blend of succulent chicken marinated in a velvety sauce of caramelized onions, cashews, and a medley of warm spices, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and depth to your table. The creamy texture and rich flavors make every bite a delightful experience without overwhelming heat.

I still remember the first time I served this Chicken Korma at a family celebration – it was an instant hit! Since then, it has become a beloved dish at special occasions and cozy Sunday dinners. The secret to the luscious sauce lies in the harmonious combination of caramelized onions and cashews, infusing it with natural sweetness and creaminess that will have your kitchen smelling divine.

Versatile and customizable, this recipe allows for ingredient swaps to suit your preferences. Whether using boneless chicken breast, coconut milk for a dairy-free twist, or almonds as an alternative to cashews, you can adapt this dish to your liking without compromising on flavor. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, and garnish with fresh cilantro for a delightful meal that will transport you to the royal kitchens of India.

Quick Benefits

• Tender and flavorful: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for their tenderness and flavor.
• Creamy and satisfying: Cashews blend with caramelized onions to create a naturally sweet and creamy sauce.
• Mild with bursts of flavor: Richly spiced yet satisfyingly mild, delivering bursts of flavor without overwhelming heat.
• Versatile and adaptable: Can easily swap ingredients like chicken breast, coconut milk, or almonds for dietary preferences or availability.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Spiced Chicken Korma Recipe Recipe

• Flavorful and Comforting: This Chicken Korma recipe brings a rich and velvety blend of spices, caramelized onions, and cashews, creating a comforting and deeply flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily customize this recipe by using different proteins like boneless chicken breasts or even opting for a dairy-free version with coconut milk. The flexibility with ingredients allows you to adapt the dish to your preferences and dietary needs.
• Family Favorite and Crowd-Pleaser: This dish has been a hit at family gatherings and special occasions, becoming a highly requested favorite. It’s a showstopper that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
• Make-ahead and Freezer-Friendly: With the option to store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to two months, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping and planning ahead. It’s a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.
• Aromatic and Inviting: The blend of warming spices, like cinnamon, cardamom, and garam masala, creates an inviting aroma that will fill your kitchen and entice your senses. It’s a dish that not only tastes amazing but also smells incredible while cooking.
• Traditional Yet Approachable: While inspired by the royal Mughal kitchens of India, this recipe offers a simplified version of the classic korma dish, allowing you to enjoy the nostalgia of traditional flavors with modern ease. It’s a perfect balance of authenticity and simplicity.
• Kid-Friendly and Family Tradition: The mild heat level and creamy texture make this dish appealing to all ages, making it a great option for family meals. Creating a tradition around Korma night can bring your family together and create lasting memories.
• Perfect Pairings: Serve this Chicken Korma with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or a crisp cucumber onion salad for a well-rounded meal. The festive finish with pomegranate seeds or sliced toasted almonds adds a touch of elegance to your dining experience.
• Tender and Juicy Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures that the meat remains tender and juicy, especially after marinating in flavorful spices and yogurt. The result is succulent chicken that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.

Ingredients for Creamy Spiced Chicken Korma Recipe

Chicken and Marinade

• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

Onions and Cashews

• 1/2 cup raw cashews, coarsely chopped
• Pinch of salt
• 3 small yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt

Gravy

• 2 serrano chilis, seeded and diced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• Fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns (optional)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For Serving

• Cooked rice

Pro Tips for Creamy Spiced Chicken Korma Recipe

Pro tip: For extra flavorful chicken, marinate the pieces in the spice-yogurt mixture for at least 1-2 hours before cooking. This step ensures the chicken absorbs the rich blend of spices, resulting in a juicy and aromatic dish that delights the taste buds.

Pro tip: To achieve a velvety and creamy texture, blend the caramelized onion and cashew mixture until smooth before adding it back to the pot. This step not only enhances the sauce’s consistency but also intensifies the flavors, creating a luxurious korma that will impress your guests.

Pro tip: Customize your chicken korma by incorporating seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or peas for added texture and nutrition. This versatile dish can easily adapt to different preferences and dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners.

How to Make Creamy Spiced Chicken Korma Recipe

Step 1: Marinate Chicken

Combine chicken thighs, ginger, garlic, garam masala, turmeric, yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 2 days for optimal flavor.

Step 2: Caramelize Onions and Toast Cashews

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions, season with a pinch of salt, and cook for 10-12 minutes until deeply caramelized, stirring often. Stir in chopped cashews and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Blend Onion-Cashew Paste

Transfer the skillet off the heat and place the onion-cashew mixture in a blender or food processor. Add 1/4 cup plain yogurt and blend until smooth. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare Gravy Base

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in the skillet over high heat. Add bay leaf and black peppercorns, cook for 1 minute. Stir in ground cardamom and cinnamon briefly. Add diced serrano chilis and sauté for 1 minute.

Step 5: Brown Marinated Chicken

Cook the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to brown.

Step 6: Incorporate Onion Paste and Simmer

Combine the prepared onion-cashew paste with 1/2 cup water, then season with garam masala, salt, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly.

Step 7: Braise Chicken

Cover the skillet and cook over medium-low heat for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 8: Finish with Cream

Add heavy cream, simmer for 2 minutes until sauce is silky and heated through. Season with salt to taste.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Take the pot off the heat. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve with cooked rice.

Storage Tips

To store leftover chicken korma, ensure it is kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to store it for a longer period, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. When reheating, do so gently over low heat with a splash of water or extra cream to revive the sauce and maintain its creamy consistency.

In this recipe, boneless chicken breast can be used as a substitute if thighs are not available. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk can replace yogurt. If cashews are unavailable, raw almonds or a scoop of unsweetened almond or cashew butter can be used in their place. Adjust the level of heat by modifying the amount of chili and peppercorns to suit your preference.

Chicken korma pairs excellently with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. Consider serving it alongside a crisp cucumber and onion salad for a refreshing contrast. To elevate the dish, garnish with pomegranate seeds or sliced toasted almonds for a festive touch. Experiment with seasonal vegetables like diced butternut squash or peas to add variety to the dish, and don’t hesitate to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version of the chicken korma, you can substitute boneless chicken breast for the thighs. This leaner cut of meat will still work well with the creamy sauce and flavorful spices. Additionally, if you prefer a dairy-free option, you can replace the plain yogurt with coconut milk. The coconut milk will add a slightly sweet and tropical undertone to the dish, creating a different yet delicious flavor profile.

If you don’t have cashews on hand, blanched almonds can be a suitable substitute. They will also provide a creamy texture to the sauce and a nutty flavor that complements the spices. Another option is to use a scoop of unsweetened almond or cashew butter as a quick and convenient alternative to achieve a similar rich and creamy consistency. These swaps ensure that you can still enjoy the essence of the chicken korma even if you need to cater to dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, serve the creamy spiced chicken korma in individual mini copper pots or colorful ceramic bowls. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh cilantro and a drizzle of heavy cream for a luxurious finish. Pair the dish with a side of warm, fluffy basmati rice and freshly baked naan bread to soak up every drop of the velvety sauce. For a touch of elegance, scatter a handful of jewel-like pomegranate seeds over the korma just before serving.

For a fun twist on presentation, consider serving the chicken korma in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or acorn squash for a festive fall or winter dinner party. The natural sweetness of the squash complements the rich flavors of the dish perfectly. Top each filled squash with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for added texture and visual appeal. Pair this cozy and aromatic meal with a side of saffron-infused basmati rice and a refreshing cucumber and mint raita to balance the warm spices.

FAQs for Creamy Spiced Chicken Korma Recipe

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

Yes, boneless chicken breast can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs in this chicken korma recipe.

What can I use as a substitute for cashews in this recipe?

If you don’t have cashews, you can try using raw almonds or even a scoop of unsweetened almond or cashew butter as a substitute.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the chicken korma?

The heat level of the korma can be adjusted by adding more or less chili and peppercorns according to your taste preference.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream in this recipe?

Yes, you can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative to heavy cream to achieve a slightly different texture in the sauce.

Conclusion

As you savor the aromatic flavors of this Chicken Korma Creamy Spiced dish, may it transport you to the vibrant kitchens of India and fill your home with warmth and comfort. The blend of spices, creamy textures, and tender chicken will surely make it a favorite at your table, just as it has become a beloved tradition in my own family.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe – make it your own by incorporating seasonal vegetables or trying different nuts for a unique twist. Whether you’re hosting a special celebration or simply craving a cozy meal, Chicken Korma Creamy Spiced is a versatile and satisfying dish that is sure to impress. So gather your loved ones, set the table, and indulge in the rich flavors of this classic Indian delicacy.