There’s nothing like the comforting embrace of a rich curry wafting through the house after a long day. The moment I set my Slow Cooker Chicken Korma to work, I could already envision a cozy dinner ahead, the tantalizing scents inviting family or friends to gather around the table. This recipe has become my go-to for busy weeknights and spontaneous get-togethers alike, as it offers an effortless way to whip up a hearty meal bursting with flavor.
With tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and a touch of tangy tomato, each bite feels like a warm hug. What I adore most is its versatility—adapt it with your favorite proteins or veggies, ensuring it’s as unique as every gather-around-the-table moment we cherish. So, whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, join me in discovering how the best slow cooker chicken korma can transform your evenings into delectable experiences, with minimal fuss and maximum delight!
Why is The Best Slow Cooker Chicken Korma perfect?
Comforting aroma: The enticing scents from the slow cooker create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for cozy dinners.
Effortless cooking: With minimal prep, you can set it and forget it, giving you more time to relax.
Versatile options: Easily swap proteins or add vegetables, making it ideal for any palate or dietary preference.
Rich, creamy texture: The combination of coconut milk and spices delivers a satisfying mouthfeel that comforts every time.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for family dinners or gatherings, this dish guarantees smiles at the table.
The Best Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Ingredients
• Get ready to create the best Slow Cooker Chicken Korma with these essential ingredients!
For the Marinade
- Full-fat Greek yogurt – Adds moisture and tenderness to the chicken; sour cream can work as a delicious substitute.
- Garam masala – The star spice blend that infuses warmth and depth into every bite.
- Ground cumin – Offers an earthy flavor that enhances the dish’s overall profile.
- Ground coriander – Brightens the flavor with its subtle citrus notes.
- Curry powder – Introduces a mild heat and additional complexity.
- Turmeric – Provides vibrant color and a hint of earthiness, keep some aside for later.
- Chili powder and chili flakes – Adjust these to taste for kick and warmth.
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1 kg) – Ideal for juiciness; feel free to substitute with chicken breasts or other proteins.
For the Aromatics
- Medium yellow onion – Creates a flavorful base when sautéed.
- Shallot – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic (6 cloves) – Essential for that aromatic flavor we all love.
- Fresh ginger (2-inch piece) – Brings fragrant warmth that elevates the entire meal.
For the Sauce
- Olive oil – Used for sautéing; any neutral oil can be used if preferred.
- Tomato paste (4 tablespoons) – Adds acidity, body to the sauce, and prevents yogurt from curdling.
- Full-fat coconut milk (400 ml) – Brings creamy richness that balances the spices beautifully.
Feel free to gather these ingredients and prepare to savor the comforting experience that is the best Slow Cooker Chicken Korma!
How to Make The Best Slow Cooker Chicken Korma
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Marinate the Chicken: Begin by combining the full-fat Greek yogurt, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, curry powder, turmeric, chili powder, and chili flakes in a bowl. Add the chicken, mixing well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight for enriched flavors.
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Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches, browning it on all sides until golden (about 5 minutes per side). Set aside once browned to preserve those delightful flavors.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the medium yellow onion and shallot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, then add minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, cooking until golden and fragrant (roughly 5 more minutes).
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Build the Sauce: Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet along with the tomato paste and full-fat coconut milk. Stir until combined and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Slow Cook: Transfer the sautéed aromatics and sauce mixture into the slow cooker and return the browned chicken. Coat the chicken well in the sauce. Set to cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Finish & Serve: Once cooked, gently stir and check seasoning if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and serve alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for an unforgettable meal.
Optional: Top with toasted almonds for added crunch and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Variations
Customize this recipe to tantalize your taste buds and delight your family!
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Protein Swap: Replace chicken with beef or lamb for a heartier version. Just remember that different meats may require adjusted cooking times.
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Vegetable Boost: Stir in fresh spinach, peas, or carrots for added nutrition and a pop of color. These veggies meld beautifully with the aromatic sauce, creating visually stunning and delicious flavors.
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Heat Adjustment: For a milder dish, reduce the chili powder and flakes, or add a dash of cream to mellow the spices. Alternatively, boost the heat with more chili for those who crave an extra kick!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a completely dairy-free twist that keeps the creaminess intact.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped cashews or almonds towards the end of cooking. They add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall texture, making each bite an adventure.
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Curry Exploration: Experiment with different curry powders to explore variations in flavor profiles—from sweet and aromatic to bold and spicy. Each type brings a unique character to your slow cooker magic!
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Sweet Twist: Add some diced dried apricots or raisins for a hint of natural sweetness. This unexpected component can create an exciting contrast that elevates the dish.
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Broth Flavoring: Instead of plain water or broth, use vegetable or chicken stock for an enriched base that enhances the deep, savory notes of the curry.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Korma?
Indulge your senses as you create a beautifully complete meal that enhances the rich flavors of this comforting curry.
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Fragrant Basmati Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the sauce perfectly, providing a wonderful backdrop for every bite of korma.
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Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, naan is perfect for dipping, allowing everyone to enjoy the luscious sauce without any wastage.
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Refreshing Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt-based dish balances the spices and adds a refreshing note, enhancing your meal’s overall experience.
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Toasted Almonds: A sprinkle of these adds a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the tender chicken and creamy sauce.
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Sauteed Spinach: A side of sautéed spinach or mixed greens brings freshness, color, and nutrients to your plate, making it feel wholesome.
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Chutney Selection: Mango or mint chutney offers a sweet and tangy element, inviting everyone to experiment with flavors at the table.
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Spiced Lentil Soup: A small bowl of this warm, hearty soup before the main course provides a lovely start, complementing the spices found in the korma.
Create a cozy dining experience with these perfect pairings, elevating your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma into a memorable feast!
How to Store and Freeze The Best Slow Cooker Chicken Korma
Fridge: Store leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Korma in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it retains its delightful flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken korma in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the slow cooker on low for 1–2 hours or in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Serving Suggestions: Consider serving the reheated dish with fresh rice or naan to bring back that comforting experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chicken Korma preparations are perfect for busy home cooks eager to save time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those rich flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Simply combine the yogurt and spices with the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prep the aromatic base (onions, garlic, and ginger) up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it in a covered bowl. When you’re ready to cook, brown the marinated chicken and sauté the aromatics before combining everything in the slow cooker. Following these make-ahead steps ensures your dish remains just as delicious and comforting, ideal for weeknight dinners!
Expert Tips for The Best Slow Cooker Chicken Korma
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Marinate Overnight: Always marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor infusion. This small step elevates the taste dramatically!
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Brown for Depth: Don’t skip the browning step! It deepens the flavor profile, creating a richer taste in The Best Slow Cooker Chicken Korma.
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Thicken the Sauce: For a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This ensures a luscious consistency.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go and adjust chili powder and flakes according to your heat preference. Don’t overwhelm the dish if you prefer milder flavors.
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Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Opt for full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture. Light versions may compromise the richness of the sauce.
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Versatile Add-Ins: Feel free to mix in vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition and color, enhancing your cozy dinner experience.
The Best Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe FAQs
What type of yogurt should I use for marinating?
I recommend using full-fat Greek yogurt for the best moisture and tenderness in the chicken. If you’re in a pinch, sour cream can be an excellent substitute, providing a similar creamy texture.
How should I store leftovers of this chicken korma?
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container, storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll preserve the dish’s rich flavors, making it perfect for easy reheating.
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Can I freeze the Slow Cooker Chicken Korma?
Absolutely! For making ahead, you can freeze the chicken korma in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring the taste and texture remain delightful.
What can I do if my korma sauce is too thin?
If you find the sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, don’t worry! Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving, allowing the sauce to thicken up beautifully.
Can I substitute the chicken for other proteins?
Very! This recipe is versatile; you can substitute the chicken thighs with beef, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just take note that cooking times may vary, especially with different meats, so adjust accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! While it contains dairy and coconut, you can adapt it for dairy allergies by substituting the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt. Always check for any other allergies present in your guests to ensure a safe meal.
The Best Slow Cooker Chicken Korma for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine the full-fat Greek yogurt, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, curry powder, turmeric, chili powder, and chili flakes in a bowl. Add the chicken, mixing well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight.
- Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches, browning it on all sides until golden (about 5 minutes per side). Set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onion and shallot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, then add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant (about 5 more minutes).
- Build the Sauce: Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet along with tomato paste and coconut milk. Stir until combined and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Slow Cook: Transfer the sautéed aromatics and sauce mixture into the slow cooker and return the browned chicken. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Finish & Serve: Stir and check seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped coriander and serve with rice or naan.