Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is a rich, creamy, and flavorful Indian-inspired dish that’s incredibly easy to make. This recipe combines tender chicken with aromatic spices and a luscious, coconut-based sauce, all cooked slowly to perfection. It’s the perfect dish for a comforting dinner, and the slow cooker makes the process effortless.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare – Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich and creamy – The blend of coconut milk, yogurt, and spices creates a luxurious texture.
• Perfectly tender chicken – Slow cooking ensures juicy, flavorful chicken every time.
• Great for meal prep – Makes delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Onion
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Coconut milk
• Greek yogurt
• Tomato paste
• Ground almonds
• Garam masala
• Turmeric
• Cumin
• Coriander
• Paprika
• Cardamom
• Cinnamon
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or butter
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Slivered almonds (optional)
• Cooked rice or naan (for serving)

Directions

this recipe

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onions until soft and golden.
2. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker along with the chicken.
4. In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, yogurt, tomato paste, ground almonds, and all the spices.
5. Pour the mixture over the chicken and stir to coat.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
7. Stir well before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro and slivered almonds.
8. Serve hot with rice or naan.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes – 8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicier Version – Add chopped green chilies or extra paprika for heat.
• Dairy-Free – Use dairy-free yogurt or extra coconut milk instead of Greek yogurt.
• Nut-Free – Skip the ground almonds or replace them with sunflower seeds.
• Vegetarian Korma – Swap chicken for chickpeas, tofu, or mixed vegetables.
• Extra Creamy – Stir in a little heavy cream or extra yogurt before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs stay juicier and more tender in the slow cooker.

Can I make this recipe without coconut milk?

Yes, you can substitute with heavy cream or extra yogurt for creaminess.

How do I prevent the yogurt from curdling?

Use full-fat yogurt and stir it in at the end of cooking instead of at the beginning.

What can I serve with chicken korma?

It pairs well with basmati rice, naan, or even quinoa.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Try adding carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Stir in extra ground almonds or let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few minutes after cooking.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients used (like spice blends) are gluten-free.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate, then start cooking the next day.

What’s the best way to make this milder for kids?

Use less garam masala and skip the chili powder or paprika.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simmer everything on low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is a delicious and effortless way to enjoy a restaurant-quality Indian dish at home. With its creamy, spiced sauce and tender chicken, it’s a perfect meal for busy nights or special occasions. Give this recipe a try and savor the comforting flavors!

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