Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe! Marinated in spiced yoghurt and simmered in coconut milk, this easy recipe combines tender chicken with aromatic spices for a comforting, flavourful dinner. Perfect for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work.
- Flavor Explosion: The marination process infuses the chicken with rich spices, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Versatile Dish: Serve with rice, naan, or even on its own; this dish adapts to any occasion.
- Family-Friendly: With its mild spice level, even picky eaters will enjoy this comforting meal.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
Tools and Preparation
To create your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking faster and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Garlic press
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring tender meat that’s packed with flavor.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for marinating chicken evenly with spices and yogurt before cooking.
- Garlic press: Saves time by quickly mincing garlic for maximum flavor release.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 175 g full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- ¼ tsp mild or medium curry powder
- 2 tsp turmeric (divided)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Chicken
- 1 kg boneless (skinless chicken thighs, halved)
- Salt and pepper (to season)
For the Base
- 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
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, curry powder, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, chili powder, chili flakes, and lemon zest. Mix well until smooth.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the halved chicken thighs to the marinade. Ensure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onion and shallot. Sauté until translucent. Then add minced garlic and ginger along with the remaining turmeric. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed mixture into your slow cooker. Add the marinated chicken along with any leftover marinade. Stir in tomato paste and coconut milk until combined.
Step 5: Cook
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for about 6 hours or high for about 3 hours until the chicken is tender.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot with rice or naan for an authentic Indian-inspired meal!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is a rich and flavorful dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.
With Rice
- Basmati Rice – Fluffy and fragrant, basmati rice pairs well with the creamy korma.
- Coconut Rice – Cooked with coconut milk for added flavor, it complements the korma perfectly.
With Bread
- Naan Bread – Soft and chewy, naan is ideal for scooping up the delicious sauce.
- Roti – A whole wheat flatbread that adds a healthy touch to your meal.
With Fresh Salads
- Cucumber Raita – A refreshing yogurt-based salad that balances the spices in the korma.
- Mixed Green Salad – Light greens drizzled with lemon juice offer a crisp contrast to the dish.
Additional Toppings
- Chopped Cilantro – Fresh herbs add brightness and enhance flavor when sprinkled on top.
- Sliced Red Onions – Raw onions provide a crunchy texture and a slight bite.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
Perfecting your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Marinate Longer – Allow the chicken to marinate in spiced yogurt overnight for deeper flavors.
- Use Fresh Spices – Opt for freshly ground spices to maximize aroma and taste.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Modify chili powder or flakes based on your heat preference for a personalized kick.
- Thicken Sauce If Needed – If the sauce is too thin, cook uncovered for the last hour to thicken it up.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Chicken Korma enhances your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Basmati Rice – Classic and aromatic, perfect for soaking up the korma sauce.
- Coconut Rice – Adds sweetness and richness, making it a delightful companion.
- Naan Bread – Ideal for dipping into the creamy korma sauce, soft and fluffy.
- Cucumber Raita – Offers a cooling effect against the spices of the korma.
- Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad lightens up the hearty dish while adding crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted with spices make a colorful plate addition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe, avoiding common mistakes can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to marinate for at least 1 hour to allow the spices to penetrate the meat.
- Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Adding too much chicken can prevent even cooking. Ensure you don’t overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
- Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old ingredients can dull the taste. Always opt for fresh spices and quality ingredients for a vibrant flavor.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Under-seasoning can make your korma lack depth. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
- Rushing Cooking Time: Cooking on high instead of low may result in tough chicken. For tender meat, stick to low heat for the full duration.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
- Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot—about 4-6 minutes.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a pot, stirring often until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe that may help you enhance your cooking experience.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken Korma?
The cooking time is approximately 6 hours on low heat. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.
Can I use different meats for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with lamb or beef, but be mindful that cooking times may vary based on the type of meat used.
What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Chicken Korma?
Serve this dish with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal that complements its rich flavors perfectly.
Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Korma spicy?
Absolutely! Adjust the chili powder and flakes according to your heat preference. Start with less and add more as needed.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or additional vegetables. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful meal any night of the week!
Slow Cooker Chicken Korma
Indulge in the rich flavors of this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma, a comforting dish that combines tender chicken marinated in spiced yogurt and simmered in creamy coconut milk. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe allows you to set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic. The aromatic spices create a delightful medley that pairs beautifully with rice or naan, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
- 175 g full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- ¼ tsp mild or medium curry powder
- 2 tsp turmeric (divided)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 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
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt with garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, curry powder, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, chili powder, chili flakes, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth.
- Add the halved chicken thighs to the marinade; coat well and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
- Sauté chopped onion and shallot in olive oil until translucent. Then add minced garlic and ginger along with the remaining turmeric. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Transfer the sautéed mixture to the slow cooker. Add the marinated chicken along with any leftover marinade. Stir in tomato paste and coconut milk until combined.
- Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours or high for about 3 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving hot with rice or naan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
