Why Make This Slow Cooker Chicken Korma
Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Indian cuisine right into your home with minimal effort. The slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a rich, aromatic sauce that envelops tender pieces of chicken. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves the warm spices of curry and the comforting texture of hearty meals. Whether you’re preparing a weekday dinner or hosting friends, this korma promises to impress with its vibrant colors and luscious flavors, all while being easy to prepare.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Korma
Making Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is a breeze, even for novice cooks. The process begins with marinating the chicken in a blend of yogurt and spices, which not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps tenderize it. After a quick browning in a skillet, the chicken simmers in a creamy coconut sauce until fork-tender. The use of a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to enjoy the enticing aromas wafting through your kitchen without constant attention. With a prep time of just over 30 minutes and cooking time of 3 to 6 hours, you’ll be able to savor this delicious dish with minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup full-fat Greek yogurt (175g)
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp mild or medium curry powder
- 2 tsp turmeric (divided)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2.2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1 kg, halved)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 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 as needed)
- 4 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 2/3 cups full-fat coconut milk (400ml)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with garam masala, cumin, coriander, curry powder, 1 tsp turmeric, chili powder, chili flakes, and lemon zest until well combined. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper, then add it to the marinade, turning each piece to coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat or use your slow cooker’s sauté function if available. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and brown the chicken on all sides in batches, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Set the browned chicken aside.
- In the same skillet or slow cooker, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onion, shallot, garlic, and ginger for about 10 minutes until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Don’t rush this step because those golden-brown aromatics create the flavor foundation.
- Stir in the reserved marinade, tomato paste, remaining 1 tsp turmeric, and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine everything into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Return the browned chicken and any accumulated juices to the slow cooker. Stir everything to coat the chicken in the sauce. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, toasted almonds, or a swirl of yogurt before serving. Serve with rice or warm naan bread.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 38g
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Korma
Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is best served with fragrant basmati rice or warm naan bread, which is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. Consider adding a side of cool cucumber raita or a simple green salad for balance. This dish is wonderful for gatherings and special occasions, but it also makes for an excellent weekday dinner, giving you comfort food without the fuss.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Korma
If you have any leftovers, let the Chicken Korma cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will last for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the korma for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in a skillet or microwave.
Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Korma
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, try to marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices to permeate the meat deeply.
- Browning the Chicken: Don’t skip the step of browning the chicken; it adds a rich depth of flavor that enhances the final dish.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder korma, reduce the chili powder or use a mild curry powder. For more heat, add extra chili flakes.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or cauliflower for a vegetarian korma that still has plenty of flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetable Korma: Add assorted vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and peas for a colorful veggie-packed version.
- Nutty Korma: Stir in some ground almonds or cashews for added texture and creaminess.
- Spicy Korma: Increase the chili powder and add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be aware that they might dry out slightly compared to thighs due to their lower fat content. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I serve with Chicken Korma?
Traditional sides include basmati rice, naan bread, or even parathas. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or raita for balance.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chicken Korma tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Just reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is a delightful blend of spices and creamy goodness that brings the taste of India to your dinner table with very little effort. With its tender chicken and rich, flavorful sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this dish will warm hearts and tantalize taste buds. Try this recipe today, and let the comforting aroma fill your home. Happy cooking!