Description
To understand what makes a Creamy Coconut Chicken Korma so unique, we must first look at the word korma itself. Derived from the Urdu word for braising, a korma is characterized by its cooking technique rather than just its spice blend. Unlike many bold, tomato-heavy curries that rely on heat and acidity, a korma is built on a foundation of fat—traditionally ghee—and a paste made from nuts, seeds, or yogurt.
Ingredients
Marinade
1½ lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
½ cup plain yogurt
1 tsp garlic paste
1 tsp ginger paste
½ tsp salt
½ tsp turmeric
Korma Sauce
3 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped or blended
1½ tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp garam masala
½ tsp ground cardamom
¼ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp chili powder (optional)
½ cup cashew paste (soak cashews in warm water, then blend)
1 cup full-fat coconut milk
½ cup chicken broth
Salt to taste
Garnish (optional)
Toasted almonds or cashews
Fresh cilantro
Drizzle of coconut cream
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
Combine all marinade ingredients and coat chicken well.
Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes (up to overnight).
2. Build the Sauce
Heat ghee in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
Add onions and cook until soft and lightly golden.
Stir in coriander, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, chili powder, and garam masala.
Cook spices 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken
Add marinated chicken and cook until lightly sealed.
Stir in cashew paste, coconut milk, and broth.
Reduce heat to low; simmer 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Finish
Taste and adjust salt.
Simmer uncovered 5 more minutes if a thicker sauce is desired.
Notes
This Creamy Coconut Chicken Korma pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or warm naan. For extra depth of flavor, garnish with toasted cashews and fresh cilantro, and adjust the spice level by adding green chilies or a pinch of garam masala before serving.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 40minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1bowl
- Calories: 420kcal
Keywords: Coconut milk chicken curry, mild Indian chicken korma, aromatic white chicken curry, nut-based chicken gravy, dairy-free coconut korma variation.