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The BEST Authentic Chicken Korma

Looking for a Chicken Korma recipe that’s the real deal? This traditional Pakistani and North Indian classic captures all the rich flavors of authentic korma—without the long prep time.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.95 from 120 ratings)

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What Makes This Chicken Korma ‘Authentic’?

It’s all about the traditional process — searing chicken in oil before adding a rich blend of yogurt, fried onions, and aromatic spices. The balance of flavors and the signature layer of oil on top define a perfect Korma.

What Is Chicken Korma?

The word ‘korma‘ means ‘to braise’. Chicken is gently sautéed and then simmered with yogurt and spices, creating a creamy, golden curry with subtle spice and deep richness.

Ingredient Notes

  • Oil: Adds the signature glossy layer to the curry.
  • Onions: Provide sweetness and body to the masala.
  • Chicken: Traditionally bone-in pieces for maximum flavor.
  • Whole spices: Bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, cumin seeds, and cinnamon for authentic aroma.
  • Yogurt: A creamy base that enriches the sauce.
  • Tomatoes: Optional but add balance and texture.

Tomatoes in Chicken Korma?

Though traditional korma doesn’t include tomatoes, they can enhance flavor and texture. You can substitute with cream or cashew paste for a dairy-free version.

Cashew Option

Soak 10 roasted cashews in boiling water for 20 minutes, blend into a paste, and add midway through cooking to create an ultra-creamy finish.

How to Make Chicken Korma

  1. Sauté onions until golden, then blend with yogurt and tomatoes.
  2. In the same pot, fry garlic, ginger, and whole spices.
  3. Add chicken and sauté until color changes.
  4. Mix in the yogurt blend and powdered spices, then simmer covered.
  5. Add finishing spices, kewra essence, and cream before serving.

How to Serve

Serve hot with naan, roti, or basmati rice. Garnish with fresh coriander and blanched almonds for a festive presentation.

🍛 The BEST Authentic Chicken Korma Recipe Card

| Course: Main Course | Cuisine: Indian, Pakistani

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 45 mins | Total: 1 hr | Servings: 4–5

Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup neutral oil
  • 2 tbsp ghee
  • 2 large onions, sliced
  • 2 lbs bone-in chicken pieces
  • 2 small tomatoes (optional)
  • 3/4 cup whole-milk yogurt
  • Bay leaves, cumin seeds, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon
  • Garlic, ginger, coriander, cumin, chili, turmeric
  • Heavy cream, kewra essence, almonds

Directions

  1. Fry onions until golden; blend with yogurt and tomatoes.
  2. Sauté garlic, ginger, and whole spices in oil.
  3. Add chicken and cook until color changes.
  4. Add spice powders and blended mix; cook covered 15 min.
  5. Finish with garam masala, cream, and kewra essence.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories370 kcal
Carbohydrates10g
Protein16g
Fat30g
Sodium941mg
Cholesterol70mg
Vitamin C11mg
Calcium71mg
Iron2mg

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