Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the soul and fills your home with delightful aromas, then this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe is just what you need! This recipe has become a favorite of mine because it’s incredibly easy to prepare and packs a punch of flavor, thanks to the rich blend of spices and creamy coconut milk. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this chicken korma is how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day, making it perfect for those moments when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it! Your slow cooker will do all the hard work.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The mild spices make it appealing for all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty dish!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Rich and Comforting: Creamy coconut milk paired with aromatic spices creates a warm hug in a bowl that everyone will crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is super simple, thanks to these wholesome ingredients. Get ready to bring some delicious flavors into your kitchen!

For the Marinade

• 175 g full-fat Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp mild or medium curry powder
• 2 tsp turmeric (divided)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp chili flakes
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Dish

• 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 tbsp olive oil (plus more if needed)
• 4 tbsp tomato paste
• 400 ml full-fat coconut milk

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
• Change up the vegetables: Add spinach, bell peppers, or peas towards the end of cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Adjust spice levels: If you like more heat, increase the chili powder or add fresh chilies. For milder flavors, reduce them.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative for a dairy-free version that still tastes amazing.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt with garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, curry powder, 1 teaspoon turmeric, chili powder, chili flakes, and lemon zest. Mix well until smooth. Add in your halved chicken thighs and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. This step is crucial because marinating tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare Your Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and shallot; sauté until they become soft and translucent—about 5 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic and ginger along with the remaining teaspoon of turmeric. Sauté until fragrant. This step enhances their natural sweetness and builds depth in flavor before they head into the slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Transfer marinated chicken into your slow cooker along with sautéed onion mixture. Stir in tomato paste and coconut milk until everything is well combined. It’s important to ensure all ingredients are mixed together so every bite is as flavorful as possible!

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 6 hours or high for around 3 hours. The longer cook time allows flavors to meld beautifully while keeping your chicken juicy and tender.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once cooked through, give everything a good stir before serving. Pair your korma with fluffy rice or warm naan bread to soak up that delectable sauce. Enjoy this delicious feast with family or friends—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe

Cooking is all about finding joy in the process, and these tips will help you achieve a deliciously rich Chicken Korma that’s full of flavor!

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This enhances the flavors and tenderness, making each bite melt in your mouth.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you love heat, feel free to increase the chili powder and flakes. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce these spices to suit your palate.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and ginger instead of powdered versions. Fresh ingredients provide a brighter flavor and better aroma.
• Layer Flavors: Sautéing the onions, shallots, garlic, and ginger before adding them to the slow cooker brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor, enhancing your korma.
• Experiment with Coconut Milk: For a creamier texture, consider using light coconut milk or even adding a splash of cashew cream before serving. This can add richness without overwhelming the dish.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe

Serving your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is an opportunity to impress! With its stunning colors and aromatic spices, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Garnishes

• Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro adds a delightful burst of freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the korma.
• Sliced Green Chilies: For those who enjoy extra heat, thinly sliced green chilies can add both spice and visual appeal.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side; a squeeze of lemon just before eating can enhance flavor and balance the dish’s richness.

Side Dishes

• Basmati Rice: Lightly fragrant basmati rice is a classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully. Cook it simply with a pinch of salt for the best experience.
• Naan Bread: Soft naan bread is perfect for scooping up korma. You can choose plain naan or garlic naan to complement the flavors further.
• Cucumber Raita: A cooling cucumber raita made with yogurt, cucumber, mint, and spices acts as a refreshing side that balances the spiciness of the korma.
• Steamed Vegetables: A medley of steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and peas adds color and nutrition while providing a light contrast to the creamy curry.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable meal that everyone will enjoy! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch at the beginning of the week, making it a great option for busy nights when you need something comforting and delicious without the hassle.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the korma to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the chicken korma cool down before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• To reheat, place in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that readers might have about this recipe!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs in the Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

How spicy is the Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. For a milder dish, reduce the chili powder and flakes; for more heat, feel free to add more!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with chickpeas or paneer as vegetarian alternatives, giving you flexibility while maintaining great flavor.

How long does it take to cook this recipe in a slow cooker?

The cooking time for this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe is about 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe as much as I do! It’s a beautiful blend of spices that creates a warm, comforting meal perfect for any night. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this dish is sure to impress. So grab your slow cooker and let those flavors mingle—happy cooking!