Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting meal thatβs packed with flavor. This dish marries marinated chicken with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk, creating a rich and satisfying dinner option. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the depth of flavor it offers.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let it do all the work.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices creates a deliciously complex taste that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, naan, or even salad for a complete meal that caters to all preferences.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome components like chicken and yogurt, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Cooked in bulk, this korma can be stored in the fridge or freezer for quick meals during busy days.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe seamlessly, having the right tools is essential. Hereβs what youβll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Grater
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-free cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over hours without constant monitoring.
- Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl is crucial for marinating your chicken evenly with spices and yogurt before cooking.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients like onions and garlic quick and easy, ensuring safety and efficiency in preparation.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 175 g full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- ΒΌ 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 Korma
- 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
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine full-fat Greek yogurt with garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, curry powder, 1 teaspoon turmeric, chili powder, chili flakes, and lemon zest. Mix well until smooth.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the halved chicken thighs into the marinade. Ensure each piece is coated well. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 3: SautΓ© Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sautΓ© chopped onions and shallots until they become translucent. Add minced garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer sautΓ©ed aromatics into the slow cooker. Add marinated chicken along with any remaining marinade. Stir in tomato paste, remaining turmeric, salt, pepper, and coconut milk.
Step 5: Cook on Low Heat
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow cooking for approximately 6 hours until chicken is tender and flavors have melded.
Step 6: Serve
Once done cooking, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma hot over rice or alongside naan bread for an unforgettable meal!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
Serving Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some delicious ways to serve this comforting dish.
Pair with Rice
- Basmati Rice β Fluffy and fragrant, basmati rice is the perfect base for soaking up the flavorful sauce of the korma.
- Coconut Rice β Add a twist by cooking rice in coconut milk for a subtle sweetness that complements the spices.
Accompany with Bread
- Naan β Soft and pillowy naan is ideal for scooping up the korma. Consider garlic or plain varieties for added flavor.
- Roti β Whole wheat roti offers a healthier option while still being great for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Add Fresh Elements
- Cucumber Raita β A cooling yogurt-based side, cucumber raita balances the spices in the korma and adds a refreshing crunch.
- Mango Chutney β Sweet and tangy mango chutney provides a delightful contrast to the savory chicken korma.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma, keep these tips in mind:
- Marinate Longer β Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor absorption.
- Use Fresh Spices β Freshly ground spices release more aroma and flavor, making your dish more vibrant.
- Adjust Spice Levels β Tailor the heat to your preference by modifying chili powder or flakes according to your taste.
- Thicken Sauce Naturally β For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the cooked korma and stir it back into the pot before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
Enhance your meal with these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Slow Cooker Chicken Korma.
- Garlic Naan β Soft bread infused with garlic flavor; perfect for dipping into sauces.
- Jeera Rice β Fragrant cumin-spiced basmati rice that complements Indian curries beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables β Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Chickpea Salad β A refreshing salad featuring chickpeas, tomatoes, and cucumbers; itβs light yet filling.
- SautΓ©ed Spinach β Quick-cooked spinach with garlic provides a nutritious green addition to your meal.
- Lentil Daal β A protein-rich lentil dish that pairs well with kormas, adding depth to your dinner spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your cooking process smoother and your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma even better.
Not marinating the chicken: Skipping the marination process can lead to less flavorful chicken. Be sure to let the chicken sit in the spiced yogurt mixture for at least an hour, or overnight for best results.
Using low-quality spices: Old or subpar spices can dull the flavors of your dish. Always use fresh spices for a vibrant taste; consider checking their expiration dates.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it tough. Since this recipe cooks for several hours, ensure you check the texture before serving to avoid drying it out.
Ignoring ingredient measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can alter the flavor profile. Use measuring spoons and cups for precision when adding spices and other components.
Not adjusting seasoning: A dish may need additional seasoning after cooking. Taste your korma before serving and adjust with salt or extra spices as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C); heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe that might help you make this delicious dish even better!
Can I use different cuts of chicken for this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like chicken breasts or drumsticks, but ensure they are boneless and skinless for best results.
How spicy is this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe?
The spice level can vary based on your choice of chili powder and flakes. Adjust these ingredients according to your preference for heat!
Can I make this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or vegetables like cauliflower and potatoes for a delicious vegetarian version.
What should I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or roti. You could also serve it with a side salad for a balanced meal.
How do I thicken my Slow Cooker Chicken Korma if needed?
To thicken, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the korma during the last hour of cooking.
Final Thoughts
The Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is not just comforting but also highly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spice levels according to your taste. Give this recipe a try on your next dinner night and enjoy its rich flavors!

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Experience the warmth of our Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe, a delightful dish that transforms tender chicken into a flavorful masterpiece simmered in creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings. Just a few minutes of prep time allows your slow cooker to work its magic, melding rich flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve it over fluffy rice, with soft naan, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal thatβs both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy a taste of India right from your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 kg boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 175 g full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- ΒΌ tsp mild or medium curry powder
- 2 tsp turmeric (divided)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper (to season)
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 1 shallot (finely chopped)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2-inch piece 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, cumin, coriander, curry powder, turmeric (1 tsp), chili powder, chili flakes, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- SautΓ© chopped onions and shallots in olive oil until translucent; add minced garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- Transfer sautΓ©ed aromatics to the slow cooker. Add marinated chicken with any leftover marinade, tomato paste, remaining turmeric, salt, pepper, and coconut milk.
- Cook on low heat for about 6 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot over rice or with naan.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: For added flavor depth, marinate the chicken overnight. To make it vegetarian-friendly, substitute chicken with chickpeas or vegetables like cauliflower. Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of chili powder and flakes.








