Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, deep flavor from slow-cooked spices

  • Incredibly tender chicken thanks to yogurt marination

  • Easy and convenient with minimal prep

  • Adaptable for different proteins and dietary needs

  • Perfect for meal prepping and freezing

  • Healthier than takeout with simple, clean ingredients

  • Can be made spicier or milder to taste

  • Great for feeding a crowd

  • Delicious with homemade naan and pilau rice

  • A truly comforting and satisfying dish

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Chicken thighs or breasts

  • Onions

  • Garlic

  • Ginger

  • Tomato purée

  • Coconut milk

  • Garam masala

  • Curry powder

  • Ground cumin

  • Ground coriander

  • Turmeric

  • Chili powder

  • Greek yogurt

  • Salt

Directions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and set aside.

  2. In a bowl, mix yogurt with the spices to create a marinade. Coat the chicken thoroughly and marinate for 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).

  3. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a slow cooker with a sear function or in a nonstick pan, then transfer to the slow cooker.

  4. Brown the chicken pieces in the same pan or slow cooker sear setting.

  5. Add the reserved marinade, coconut milk, and tomato purée to the slow cooker and stir to combine.

  6. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, removing the lid for the last 30 minutes to thicken the sauce if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4-6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 4-6 hours on low
Total time: About 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes.

Variations

  • Chicken Breasts: Use instead of thighs for a leaner version.

  • Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative.

  • Nut-Free: Skip ground almonds and use extra coconut milk.

  • Vegetarian: Replace chicken with paneer or tofu.

  • Spicier Korma: Add extra chili powder or fresh chilies.

Storage/Reheating

  • Fridge: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze in containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months (best quality) or up to 6 months safely.

  • Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until thoroughly heated.

FAQs

How can I make this Chicken Korma spicier?

Add extra chili powder or include fresh chopped chilies during cooking.

Can I use beef or lamb instead of chicken?

Yes, both beef and lamb work well, but adjust the slow cooker time as they may need longer.

Can I skip browning the chicken?

You can, but browning adds a depth of flavor that enhances the dish significantly.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, but the chicken may not be as tender. Cooking on low is recommended for best results.

Can I use light coconut milk?

Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.

What sides go well with Chicken Korma?

Homemade naan, pilau rice, or simple basmati rice are excellent choices.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen beautifully if made a day ahead.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your slow cooker is large enough and adjust cooking time if necessary.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?

It’s not necessary but highly recommended for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is a wonderfully rich and comforting dish that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions. With a tender, flavorful chicken and a creamy, spiced sauce, this korma is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you follow the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this is a meal that delivers every time.


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Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

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This Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is a cozy, flavor-packed Indian dish perfect for easy weeknight dinners. Marinated chicken is slow-cooked in a creamy coconut and tomato sauce, infused with aromatic spices for a healthier, tastier takeout-style meal at home. Keywords: Slow Cooker Chicken Korma, easy chicken korma, healthy slow cooker recipes, Indian chicken curry.

  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4-6 hours (on low)
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Chicken thighs or breasts

Onions

Garlic

Ginger

Tomato purée

Coconut milk

Garam masala

Curry powder

Ground cumin

Ground coriander

Turmeric

Chili powder

Greek yogurt

Salt

Instructions

  1. Season chicken pieces with salt and set aside.

  2. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt with garam masala, curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder to create a marinade.

  3. Coat the chicken thoroughly in the marinade and marinate for 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

  4. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until softened, either using the slow cooker sear function or in a pan.

  5. Brown the marinated chicken in the same pan or slow cooker.

  6. Add the reserved marinade, coconut milk, and tomato purée to the slow cooker and stir everything together.

  7. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

  8. Remove the lid for the final 30 minutes if a thicker sauce is desired.

  9. Serve hot with naan or rice.

Notes

For a spicier dish, add more chili powder or fresh chopped chilies.

Substitute dairy-free yogurt for a dairy-free version.

Browning the chicken before slow cooking adds rich flavor but can be skipped for convenience.

Can be made ahead; flavors deepen after a day.

Easily doubles for feeding a crowd — ensure your slow cooker is large enough.

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