Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Korma: Effortless Comfort Food Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 390 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Full-fat Greek yogurt (Can substitute with sour cream.); 2 tablespoons Garam masala (Essential spice blend for flavor.); 1 teaspoon Ground cumin (Adds earthy tones.); 1 teaspoon Ground coriander (Provides a light citrus hint.); 1 tablespoon Curry powder (Adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Turmeric (Can use saffron as an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Chili powder (Adjust for heat.); 1 teaspoon Chili flakes (Adjust for heat.); 2 pounds Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) (Use chicken breasts for a leaner option.); 1 large Onion (Fresh is best.); 1 large Shallot (Adds sweetness and depth.); 3 cloves Garlic (Essential for aroma.); 1 inch Ginger (Fresh, grated.); 1 can Coconut milk (Use light coconut milk for a healthier option.); 2 tablespoons Tomato paste (Can substitute with roasted red pepper sauce.)

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The air was thick with the fragrant scent of spices simmering away, transporting me to the vibrant streets of India, where comfort food reigns supreme. Today, I want to share my take on a beloved dish: Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Korma. This recipe celebrates the tender chicken marinated in creamy yogurt and slow-cooked with rich coconut milk and zesty tomatoes. What makes this dish truly irresistible is its effortless preparation—you can set it and forget it, freeing up precious time for yourself. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable, allowing you to swap in different proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of warmth and flavor? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Chicken Korma So Irresistible?

Unmatched Comfort: The warm spices and creamy coconut sauce create an embrace of flavor, making every bite comforting and fulfilling.

Effortless Preparation: Just marinate, toss in the slow cooker, and let it do the work—perfect for busy weeknights.

Adaptable Delight: Swap chicken for lamb, beef, or even hearty vegetables for a personalized twist.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: This dish is sure to impress guests and family alike, reminiscent of dining out but made from home.

Pair it perfectly with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for that complete signature experience that you’ll love. Don’t forget to check out my Crockpot Chicken Tacos for another mouth-watering slow-cooked recipe!

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this easy and delectable dish:

For the Marinade

Full-fat Greek yogurt – A creamy base that tenderizes chicken; sour cream can be a quick substitute.
Garam masala – The essential spice blend that brings authentic korma flavor; do not skip this!
Ground cumin – Imparts earthy tones that add depth and warmth.
Ground coriander – Provides a light citrus hint to balance the spices.
Curry powder – Infuses mild flavors that enrich the overall profile; adjust to your taste.
Turmeric – Offers a vibrant color and subtle bitterness; saffron can be used for a fragrant alternative.
Chili powder and chili flakes – Perfect for adding heat; tweak according to your preference.

For the Main Dish

Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) – Juicy and tender; use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Onion – Builds the flavorful foundation; fresh is best!
Shallot – Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Garlic – A must for aromatic success.
Ginger – Brightens and balances the dish beautifully.

For the Sauce

Coconut milk – Provides creaminess and sweetness, complementing the spices superbly. Opt for light coconut milk for a healthier twist.
Tomato paste – Contributes acidity and thickness; substitute with roasted red pepper sauce if avoiding tomatoes.

Let the rich aromas of this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma fill your kitchen, and savor the flavors of comfort. Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine full-fat Greek yogurt with garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, curry powder, turmeric, chili powder, and chili flakes. Coat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs thoroughly with this aromatic marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for deeper flavor, refrigerate overnight.

Step 2: Brown Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat or set your slow cooker to the sauté function. Add a splash of oil and sear the marinated chicken pieces until they are golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. This step will enhance the depth of flavor in your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma, so don’t skip it if time allows.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet or slow cooker, add finely chopped onion, shallot, garlic, and ginger. Sauté these aromatics for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden and fragrant. This builds the foundational flavor for your korma and creates an inviting aroma throughout your kitchen.

Step 4: Build the Sauce
Add the reserved yogurt marinade, tomato paste, remaining turmeric, and coconut milk to the sautéed aromatics. Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to come together and thicken slightly. The vibrant colors and rich scents indicate you’re on the right track to a delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Korma.

Step 5: Slow Cook
Transfer the browned chicken into the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it. Stir gently to ensure the chicken is coated. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded when fully cooked, soaking in all the delightful flavors of your korma.

Step 6: Serve
Once the cooking time is complete, give the Slow Cooker Chicken Korma a gentle stir. Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh coriander, chickpeas, or nuts if desired. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan to complete your meal, enjoying the wonderful blend of spices and creaminess that defines this comforting dish.

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

Marinate Longer: Enhance flavor by marinating the chicken overnight; it deepens the spice infusion and tenderness.
Browning Optional: While browning enhances richness, if you’re short on time, skip this step without compromising much on taste.
Thicken Sauces: For a thicker sauce, try adding a cornstarch slurry towards the end or remove the lid to let some moisture escape.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition; just adjust cooking times to ensure they cook through.
Taste as You Go: Adjust spice levels according to your preference; remember, ‘slow cooker’ often mellows flavors as it cooks.

With these tips, your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma will be sure to impress!

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

Create a delightful meal experience that brings warmth to the table alongside your aromatic dish.

Fluffy Basmati Rice: Perfectly cooked basmati rice absorbs the rich korma sauce, adding a light and fragrant element to each bite.
Warm Naan Bread: Soft, pillowy naan is ideal for scooping up the creamy korma, adding a satisfying texture to the meal.
Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt dip contrasts beautifully with the spices, refreshing the palate with each bite.
Sauteed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach offers a vibrant touch, bringing a hint of earthiness to balance the korma’s richness.
Chickpea Salad: A zesty chickpea salad with tomatoes and herbs adds freshness and a protein-packed side, enhancing the meal’s nutrition.
Mango Chutney: This sweet and tangy chutney brings a pop of flavor that complements the korma’s spiciness, making for an exciting taste adventure.
Mint Lemonade: A refreshing mint lemonade serves as a delightful drink to cleanse the palate, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Coconut Rice Pudding: Finish off with a creamy coconut rice pudding that echoes the korma’s flavors in a sweet, comforting dessert.

Make Ahead Options

Planning ahead is a game-changer, and this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma is no exception! You can marinate the chicken in the yogurt and spice mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it, ensuring it stays fresh. Additionally, you can sauté the aromatics and prepare the sauce up to 3 days prior—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, combine everything in the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. This preparation will not only save you time but also keep your dish just as delicious and comforting when you serve it!

Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Korma

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s cool before placing it in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Once cooled, you can freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Korma for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers for easy meals later.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm the korma on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk if the sauce has thickened.

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Variations

Feel free to explore creative twists for this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma, transforming it into your family favorite!

Protein Swaps: Substitute chicken with lamb or beef, adjusting cooking times for tenderness. Each protein brings its unique flavor to this comforting dish.
Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free delight, use chickpeas, lentils, or hearty vegetables like cauliflower and potatoes. You can also add some chopped spinach for vibrant color and nutrition!
Nutty Addition: Toss in a handful of slivered almonds or cashews before serving for a delightful crunch and rich nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
Herbal Boost: Swap fresh coriander for fresh mint as a garnish to give your korma a refreshing twist that brightens the overall flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: If you crave heat, add extra chilies or crushed red pepper into the marinade. Alternatively, serve it with a side of spicy pickle for those who love it hot.
Coconut Milk Swap: Use half coconut milk and half vegetable stock for a lighter sauce while still enjoying that creamy texture. This twist caters to those watching their calorie intake.
Curry Flavor Variation: For a slight twist, try adding a tablespoon of Thai red curry paste alongside the other spices for a fusion twist that brings exciting flavors to familiar territory.
Crockpot Twist: If you love one-pot meals, check out my Crockpot Chicken Tacos for another family-friendly option that bursts with flavor, adapting the same effortless cooking style as this korma.

These variations are not just fun; they let you tailor the dish to your taste and creativity. Enjoy the journey in making this Slow Cooker Chicken Korma uniquely yours!

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the most tender and juicy results in your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts can be substituted. Keep in mind that breasts may dry out a bit more during cooking, so adjust cooking times accordingly.

How should I store leftovers?
Store your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating to help preserve its flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Korma?
Absolutely! After it has cooled, you can freeze your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma for up to 3 months. I recommend dividing it into portion-sized containers for easy meals later. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then reheat gently on the stove. A splash of coconut milk can help rehydrate the sauce if it thickens during freezing.

What if my korma sauce is too thin?
No problem! If you find your Slow Cooker Chicken Korma sauce too thin, you can create a cornstarch slurry to thicken it up. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the korma during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can remove the lid during the last hour to allow some moisture to evaporate and naturally thicken the sauce.

Are there any dietary concerns with this recipe?
Yes, if you’re cooking for anyone with dietary restrictions, be mindful of the yogurt and nuts, as these can trigger allergies. For a dairy-free option, substitute full-fat Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt alternative. Just remember that the flavor and creaminess might change, but it’ll still be delicious!