Go Back

INDIAN COCONUT CHICKEN KORMA RECIPE

Sana Umer
This Indian Coconut Chicken Korma is a rich, creamy curry packed with spices and tender chicken. Coconut milk and ground almonds make it extra smooth—perfect served with rice or naan for a comforting meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 people
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 lb 450g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks
  • ½ cup plain yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Korma Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder optional
  • ½ cup ground almonds or cashews
  • 1 cup coconut milk full fat
  • ½ cup water or chicken broth
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander cilantro, for garnish

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

  • In a bowl, mix chicken with yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, and salt. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge.

Cook the Aromatics:

  • Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté onions until golden brown, about 8–10 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cook for another 1–2 minutes.

Add Spices:

  • Stir in coriander, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Make the Sauce:

  • Add ground almonds and stir. Pour in coconut milk and water (or broth). Mix well and bring to a simmer.

Cook the Chicken:

  • Add marinated chicken to the pan. Simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes until chicken is tender and sauce is thickened.

Serve:

  • Garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan.

Notes

Make Ahead:
You can cook the korma up to 2 days ahead. Flavours deepen over time.
Customizing the Flavor:
Add saffron or a few raisins for sweetness. Adjust spice for milder or hotter taste.
Serving Suggestions:
Great with basmati rice, jeera rice, or warm naan bread.
Allergy-Friendly Options:
Use dairy-free yogurt for a fully dairy-free version.
Storage Tips:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Keyword chicken korma, coconut curry, creamy curry, easy Indian curry, Indian chicken recipe, korma with coconut milk