Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Marinated in spiced yogurt and simmered in creamy coconut milk, this easy recipe features tender chicken infused with aromatic spices. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to do all the hard work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and coconut milk creates a rich, satisfying taste that will impress your family or guests.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal, or pair it with a fresh salad for a lighter option.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and nutritious spices, this recipe offers a wholesome dining experience.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for effortless lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather essential tools that will make preparing this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe easy and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Ideal for slow-cooking meats to perfection while infusing flavors over time.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for marinating the chicken with yogurt and spices thoroughly.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of ingredients for balanced flavors.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions, shallots, garlic, and ginger effortless.

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 Sauce

• 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: Marinate the Chicken

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. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Add the halved chicken thighs to the marinade. Ensure each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onion and shallot. Sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and ginger along with remaining turmeric. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer marinated chicken into the slow cooker. Pour sautéed aromatics over the chicken. Add tomato paste and coconut milk. Mix well to ensure everything is combined evenly.

Step 5: Cook on Low

Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set on low heat for 6 hours or high heat for 3 hours until chicken is tender and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

Once done cooking, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread. Enjoy your comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Korma!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs well with various sides. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Rice

• Basmati Rice: Light and fluffy, basmati rice complements the creamy korma perfectly.
• Coconut Rice: Infuse your rice with coconut for added flavor that matches the korma’s richness.

With Bread

• Naan: Soft and pillowy, naan is perfect for scooping up the korma sauce.
• Roti: A healthier alternative, roti adds a delightful texture to your meal.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a fresh contrast to the rich korma.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and balances the spices of the dish.

With Yogurt

• Raita: A cooling yogurt sauce mixed with cucumber and mint helps to mellow the spices in the korma.
• Plain Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top can enhance creaminess and add tang.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe

Getting your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma just right is easy with these helpful tips.

• Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, allow the chicken to marinate in spices and yogurt for at least 2 hours or overnight.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices offer more vibrant flavors compared to pre-ground ones.
• Adjust spice levels: Tailor the heat by adjusting chili powder and flakes according to your preference.
• Thicken sauce if needed: If you prefer a thicker curry, mix in a bit of cornstarch or additional tomato paste towards the end of cooking.
• Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, consider adding peas or spinach during the last hour of cooking.
• Let it rest: Allowing the korma to sit for a while after cooking helps meld flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe

Pairing your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Basmati Rice: Fluffy rice that soaks up korma sauce beautifully.
2. Naan Bread: Soft bread ideal for dipping into the creamy curry.
3. Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt dip balances out spicy flavors perfectly.
4. Chickpea Salad: A zesty mix of chickpeas, tomatoes, and herbs for added protein and freshness.
5. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp green beans provide a nice crunch alongside the creamy dish.
6. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower adds depth and flavor contrast to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Chicken Korma can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish.

• Using low-quality yogurt: Using low-fat or flavored yogurt can alter the taste and texture. Always opt for full-fat Greek yogurt for creaminess and flavor.
• Skipping spices: Spices are key to a rich Korma. Don’t skip or reduce the amount of garam masala, turmeric, and other spices; they define the dish’s essence.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Adding too much chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amount to ensure each piece is tender and flavorful.
• Ignoring marination time: Marinating chicken in spiced yogurt is crucial for flavor absorption. Allow at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight, for the best results.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Different brands of ingredients may vary in potency. Always taste and adjust salt and spice levels during cooking for a balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe

• Place cooled Korma in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer Korma to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Portion into microwave-safe bowls. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between bursts.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe.

Can I use other meats in this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey, lamb, or even beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat used.

How do I make this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute full-fat Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative and use coconut milk as directed.

What side dishes pair well with this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe?

This dish pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it in the slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

The Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth to any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!