Chicken Korma Coconut Milk Recipe with Variations - My Natural Family (2024)

Rebecca Baron 26 Comments

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

I dare say that this Indian chicken korma coconut milk recipe is my all-time favorite meal I make at my house right now. I love it so much and I really hope you will too.

Chicken Korma Coconut Milk Recipe with Variations - My Natural Family (1)

If you have been following my blog for even a little while you probably have noticed how much I enjoy Indian food. Today is just another example of why I like Indian food so much. I've been making this meal for so long that I honestly can't even remember how I came up with the recipe because korma isn't even my favorite thing to order at Indian restaurants.

I don't think it has very much flavor at my favorite Indian restaurant. But this recipe has lots of flavors when made at home. This is a great dish to share with family and friends. I really enjoy the flavor that comes with this dish.

It is approved by the picky eaters in my family too.I've made this about a hundred times. It's filling, flavorful and easy. Plus, my whole family loves it and it's a lot healthier and cheaper than eating out.

Here are some of our thoughts about this healthy recipe and the reasons why I chose to prepare it the way I did, along with some tips and tricks:

  • I've noticed the trick to gettinglots of flavor out of this dish is to make sure and let the spices bloom in steps 9-10. This is an important step not to miss.
  • I decided to soak the coconut and cashews before making a paste out of them so that they would be smoother. Then I blended it with the coconut milk to make a nice smooth sauce that would thicken the dish nicely.
  • Don't have time to soak the cashews? One reader said, "I put boiling water on the nuts and coconut, soaked them while I prepared the rest, and it worked out great.."
  • My favorite Indian restaurant serves their coconut korma with golden raisins in it. It adds a little sweetness to the dish as well as a nice texture. The raisins plump up when cooked, so I added it to the dish as well.
  • It is really delicious served on top of red quinoa *; however, you can put it over jasmine rice, cauliflower rice or another preferred grain of your choice if you would like.
  • You could use chicken tenders or chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs and it wouldn't take nearly as long to cook, but I really like the depth of flavor you get from the chicken thighs and I really like how tender they get when you cook them for a really long time in the oven.

Versions #2 and #3 - Simplified & Instant Pot Chicken Korma

I took the traditional clean chicken korma recipe above and simplified and American-ized it. I cut out several of the steps and it doesn't taste quite the same but it's so much less work and it doesn't require you to prepare ahead of time, so hopefully, you'll appreciate the time savings. I know I do.

In fact, I've made this clean chicken korma recipe a few hundred times. Yep. You heard that right. When I find a recipe I like, I make it a lot. The fact that my two oldest children love this recipe too, it makes me make it even more often. One of my daughters doesn't like it because it has chicken in it. She won't eat anything with chicken in it so she really doesn't count.

My other daughter is five and doesn't like how spicy I make it. I don't blame her. I like it really spicy. You can totally customize the spice level yourself though by the amount of red pepper and the type of fresh chilies and whether or not you include the seeds (leave out the seeds if you don't like the heat). If you don't like it spicy, don't put any red pepper in. If you like it spicy, pretend it's salt and sprinkle it all over the place.

I must warn you that I've only tried this recipe with Spice Hunter spices. They are so much better than any other spice I've tried. They actually have flavor. So, just beware that you are welcome to use whatever spices you have, but the recipe may turn out very different for you.

One of the ways I simplified the whole process was I don't make a coconut paste to blend with the coconut milk (who has time to soak cashews for 4 hours?). This makes it a thinner sauce, instead of thick like the image, but it still tastes almost as good.

I should also say that the spices are approximate. I never measure mine. I just put how much I feel on that day. If nothing else, it gives it a little variety of flavor.

Now that I have my Instant Pot *, I make this almost exclusively in it. All the ingredients are the same. It's just a different technique. It turns out different from the images too. It'ssoupiery and the chicken is really soft, a lot like it would be in a crockpot.

I hope you and your family and friends like this dairy-free chicken korma recipe as much as I do. I love love love it! Please let me know which version of clean chicken korma you like better and if you like it as much as I do. I would love to know if you try this recipe. Please comment below and let me know how it turns out!

Chicken Korma Coconut Milk Recipe with Variations - My Natural Family (2)

Print

Recipe

Chicken Korma Coconut Milk Recipe with Variations - My Natural Family (3)

Indian Chicken Korma Coconut Milk Recipe

★★★★★4.8 from 6 reviews

  • Author: Rebecca Baron
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 90 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Paleo
Print Recipe

Save Recipe

Description

An Indian chicken dish with cashews, coconut and golden raisins.

Ingredients

Scale

  • ½ Cup Raw, Unsalted Cashews (plus extra to garnish)
  • ½ Cup Shredded Coconut * (unsweetened)
  • 1 13.5 ounce Can Coconut Milk * (full fat)
  • 2 Tbl Coconut Oil
  • Real Salt * (to taste)
  • 6 Chicken Thighs, boneless, skinless
  • 1 Yellow Onion (chopped)
  • 2 tsp fresh green chilies, chopped (serrano, Thai or jalapeno, optional)
  • 1 ½ tsp Ground Cumin
  • ½ tsp Ground Turmeric
  • 1 ½ tsp Garam Masala
  • ½ tsp Ground Ginger (or Ginger Essential Oil - add when done cooking)
  • 1 tsp Garlic (minced)
  • 1 Cup Chicken Stock
  • ⅓ Cup Golden Raisins (plus more to garnish)
  • Fresh Cilantro (to garnish)

Instructions

  1. Place the cashews and coconut in a bowl and cover with an inch of water.
  2. Let soak overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
  3. Drain and place in a high speed blender. Puree until it becomes a smooth paste.
  4. Add in the coconut milk and puree until smooth and combined. Set aside.
  5. In a large, oven-safe frying pan with high sides, heat the oil on high.
  6. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
  7. Place in the hot oil in the frying pan and cook each piece on both sides, until golden brown.
  8. Place chicken on a plate.
  9. Reduce the heat to medium/high and add the onion, chilies, cumin, turmeric, garam masala, and ginger.
  10. Saute for 2-3 minutes, or until onion is translucent.
  11. Add the garlic and saute for another 30 seconds.
  12. Add the chicken back into the pan along with the golden raisins.
  13. Pour the chicken stock into the pan and bring to a simmer. Cover.
  14. Place the pan in an oven preheated to 325 degrees. Cook for 45 minutes.
  15. Add in the cashew/coconut sauce and cook for another 45 minutes, or until chicken is tender.
  16. Shred chicken lightly. Check seasonings and add more salt, if desired. Garnish with cilantro, cashews, and golden raisins. Serve atop red quinoa or cauliflower rice.

Notes

  • If at any time during the baking process you feel the liquid levels are too low or the sauce is too thick, add in another ½ cup of chicken stock.
  • I usually garnish with a very generous handful of salted, toasted cashews. Yum!

Keywords: Clean, Favorite, Baked

Print

Recipe

Chicken Korma Coconut Milk Recipe with Variations - My Natural Family (4)

Simplified Chicken Korma Recipe {Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free}

★★★★★5 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Rebecca Baron
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 80 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Indian

Description

I'm so in love with this Clean Eating simple chicken korma. It's so good and only takes a few minutes to get it started and then most of the rest of the time I can do whatever I want while it cooks.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 Tbl coconut oil (I use coconut oil)
  • 6 large Chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
  • 1 Yellow Onion (chopped)
  • 2 tsp fresh green chilies (serrano, Thai or jalapeno, optional)
  • 1 tsp Garlic (minced)

Spices

  • ½ tsp Garam Masala
  • 2 tsp Coriander
  • ½ tsp Cumin
  • ¼ tsp Turmeric
  • ¼ tsp Cayenne (optional)
  • Real salt * (to taste)
  • 1 can Coconut Milk * (full fat)

Last Minute Ingredients

  • ½ Cup Cashews
  • ¼ Cup Coconut Flakes (unsweetened (optional)
  • Ginger Essential Oil (or alternately add ½ teaspoon ginger with the spices)
  • Fresh Cilantro (to garnish)

Instructions

Traditional Preparation

  1. Put all the main ingredients and spices in a oven-safe frying pan with high sides or an enameled dutch oven. Put the spices on both side of the chicken.
  2. Cook, turning the chicken half way through, until the chicken is ¾th cooked, the onions are translucent and the spices are browned
  3. Pour the can of coconut milk into the pan and bring to a simmer. Cover.
  4. Place the pan in an oven preheated to 325 degrees. Cook for one hour, or until the chicken is tender.
  5. Shred chicken lightly. Check seasonings and add more salt, if desired. Add cashews, coconut flakes and ginger. Garnish with cilantro. Serve atop red quinoa * or other grain, such as rice. Jasmine rice is my favorite, although not strictly Clean Eating. I also really like short grain brown rice * and mashed cauliflower with this dish.

Instant Pot Directions

  1. Put the main ingredients, coconut milk and spices in the Instant Pot *. I always use frozen chicken and they have enough moisture that I don't add water, but I would guess with fresh chicken you will need to add a little water. Add as little as possible so the spices will brown.
  2. Push the Soup button and let it cook for 30 minutes on high pressure.
  3. Let the steam out. The chicken should be super soft. If not, cook for a few more minutes.
  4. Shred chicken lightly. Check seasonings and add more salt, if desired. Add cashews, coconut flakes and ginger. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over a grain, as mentioned above.

Notes

*If at any time during the baking process you feel the liquid levels are too low or the sauce is too thick, add in another ½ cup of chicken stock.

Keywords: Quick, Easy, Clean, Favorite

You may also like...

  • The Best Clean Eating Recipes From My Natural Family
  • Simple Paleo Chicken Curry Recipe
  • Instant Pot Thai Basil Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe
  • Healthy Instant Pot Recipes
  • Healthy Chicken Recipes
  • Healthy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
  • 20-Minute Paleo Cashew Chicken Recipe {Video}
  • One Pan Paleo Lemon Chicken Recipe

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Twodogs

    I have made this a few times. I add varied veggies and cook it solely on the stove top. Baking it didn't add anything but extra time. (Tonight's veggies are a carrot sliced on a mandolin, sliced pea pods, yellow squash quartered and sliced, and some slice green peppers in addition to the onion.)
    I also double the spices as you had a delicate touch and I wanted more of a kick to overcome all the nuts and coconut.
    I always top with cilantro - it's really key to my palate.

    Reply

  2. Rosie

    Should cashews be raw? Unsalted?

    Reply

    • Rebecca Baron

      Yes. I can't believe I missed that. Thanks for asking. I updated the recipe so others don't wonder about that.

      Reply

  3. Jodi

    In the simplified recipe you include chili peppers. They are not in the original recipe. Is this intentional? Thank you!

    Reply

    • Rebecca Baron

      Oops. Thanks for noticing that. They should be in both recipes. I fixed it now.

      Reply

  4. Brion

    Question; do you leave skin on the thighs for this recipe? Thanks!

    Reply

  5. Amelia

    This is one of my favorite “show off” dishes and it’s going to be just perfect on this snowy midwestern evening! I think I’m going to serve it with peas and cauliflower over red quinoa.

    Reply

  6. Yen C

    Hi - I’m just wondering why cook the chicken twice 45min each? It should’ve been cooked much shorter than that?

    Reply

    • Rebecca

      It will be cooked before that and you could cook it shorter than that if you want, but cooking it that long makes it really nice and tender.

      Reply

  7. Sunaina Kumar-Ram

    Can this be made just on the stove top without the oven bit?

    Reply

    • Rebecca

      Yes. The oven helps give it a nice roasted flavor and cooks it all through, but it's not necessary.

      Reply

  8. Maria

    Rebecca, you are truly a gifted chef!

    Reply

  9. Sabrina - Cozy Cuisines

    Thank you so much for this recipe! It was sooooo delish! I can't make it that often because it's just me myself and I, but I can definitely see making this quarterly throughout the year!

    Reply

    • Rebecca

      You're welcome! Thanks for stopping by.

      Reply

      • Rebekah

        Delicious dish!

        Please update the Cook time and Total time for your recipe or update the Instructions to bake 45 minutes, then 15 minutes. The math just doesn’t add up.

        My poor family had to wait an extra 45 minutes past our normal dinner time because the Cook time says 1 hour and Total time says 1 hour 20 minutes, but then the Instructions have you bake it for 45 minutes, then another 45 minutes.

        The Cook time should either be 1 hour 30 minutes and the Total time 1 hour 50 minutes or the Instructions need to be changed to bake 45 minutes, then 15 minutes.

        Reply

        • Rebecca Baron

          Thanks for pointing that out, I took care of it.

          Reply

  10. Louise Rothwell

    This is delicious and the best homemade curry I have ever made. So easy and filling.Will definitely make it again.

    Reply

    • Rebecca

      I'm so glad you like it! Thanks for taking the time to comment.

      Reply

  11. meredith

    This was wonderful! Made it tonight and was asked by my family to make it again. A win. thanks!

    Reply

    • Rebecca

      So good to hear! I'm glad you liked it. I've eat it so many times and it tastes a little different every time. Lately I really like it with steam cauliflower.

      Reply

  12. Lauren

    Do you leave the skillet uncovered for the second 45 minutes after putting in the sauce?

    Reply

    • Rebecca

      Yes.

      Reply

  13. Valerie

    I made this the other night and it was delightful! I will totally make this again soon. Didn't change any aspect of the recipe and wouldn't a second time around, either. Thanks for this gem!

    Reply

    • Rebecca

      I am glad you enjoyed the recipe!

      Reply

  14. SK

    Eager to try this!

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Chicken Korma Coconut Milk Recipe with Variations - My Natural Family (2024)

FAQs

What are the variations of korma? ›

Hence, korma has a yoghurt/cream-based mildly spicy gravy with a simmered centre component. Shahi korma, Mughalai korma, Hyderabadi korma, and Kashmiri korma are prime examples. On the other hand, curry is usually spicier and thicker than korma. It is similar to a pre-cooked sauce loaded with herbs and spices.

Does Chicken Korma contain coconut milk? ›

You've probably heard of chicken curry or tikka masala, but what about korma? It's a creamy dish of meat and veggies braised with yogurt and spices. The thick sauce seeped in smoky and sweet spices, balanced out with coconut milk, tastes absolutely scrumptious over chicken, vegetables or beef.

What's the difference between coconut cream and coconut milk? ›

Coconut Cream vs Coconut Milk

Compared to normal coconut milk, coconut cream has a much higher fat content, containing around 19-22% fat. Coconut cream still retains the delicious coconut flavor that coconut milk has, but is much thicker as it is essentially coconut milk with less water.

What is a healthy alternative to coconut milk in Thai curry? ›

Soy milk is a great alternative to coconut milk. It's also plant-based and has a slightly lower fat content than coconut milk. In most recipes, you can swap it in a 1:1 ratio. If you're looking to add more protein to your diet, soy milk is a good option.

What is the closest curry to the korma? ›

Pasanda. Like their cousin the Korma a Pasanda is a rich, creamy curry made from ground almonds and coconut. It is a sweet dish without too much heat and has it's origins in Moghul cooking using lamb. It can also have cream in it as well, so it is very mild and children generally like it.

What is korma called in English? ›

The English name is an anglicisation of the Hindi-Urdu qormā (क़ोरमा, قورمہ), meaning "braise". It refers to the cooking technique used in the dish.

Do Indian restaurants use coconut milk? ›

Here are some dairy-free alternatives commonly used in Indian cooking: Coconut Milk: A creamy and rich substitute for dairy, coconut milk is often used in curries, soups, and desserts. It lends a delightful tropical flavor and pairs well with Indian spices.

Why do people add coconut milk to curry? ›

I also use coconut milk or cream sometimes when I make chana masala because I very much like how it makes the gravy so creamy and rich. Water does not offer the same benefits and - in my opinion - actually weakens the tempering of the curries and kormas. So, the top reason is because it is delicious!!

What to add to a jar of korma sauce? ›

Add more spices: Store-bought curry sauces often lack the depth of flavour that homemade sauces have. To remedy this, you can add more spices like cumin, turmeric, coriander, and garam masala. Use fresh ginger and garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic add a lot of flavour to curries.

Can I use coconut milk instead of coconut cream in a recipe? ›

Coconut milk and cream are mostly interchangeable in recipes such as curries and soups. If you prefer a richer flavour and texture, try coconut cream or vice versa.

Is coconut milk better for you than heavy cream? ›

Heavy cream has signficantly more Vitamin D than coconut cream. Coconut cream is a great source of dietary fiber and iron, and it is an excellent source of potassium. Both coconut cream and heavy cream are high in calories and saturated fat. Coconut cream has signficantly less cholesterol than heavy cream.

Can you skip coconut milk in curry? ›

Chou suggests using unsweetened oat, rice, or soy milk mixed with a few drops of coconut oil when cooking a curry, soup, or stew.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of coconut milk? ›

Greek yogurt is a great option to substitute for creamy canned coconut milk for folks who eat dairy. “Greek yogurt is thick and adds creaminess to recipes, especially if you choose a full-fat variety,” says Woods. Greek yogurt has a tangy taste, which may not work well in every single recipe.

Should coconut milk for curry be sweetened or unsweetened? ›

Follow this tip: Be sure you're buying unsweetened coconut milk. It's already naturally sweet, so you don't need the extra sugar, unless the recipe specifically calls for it.

What is the difference between korma and Shahi korma? ›

While Shahi Korma is like the common Korma as they share some similarities, the Shahi Korma has some notable differences which makes it royal. Shahi Korma is creamier due to the use of a paste of almonds and cashews and cream instead of yogurt, giving it a richer and more indulgent texture.

What is the difference between North and South Indian korma? ›

North Indian korma is aromatic, rich & creamy with a velvety texture as nuts & yogurt form the base. South Indian kurma is not creamy or rich but is light as coconut & seeds/nuts form the base. However both are very fragrant and spiced for flavor but not for heat.

What is a spicy version of a korma? ›

Korma is a type of curry that gets some grief from hot curry fans, but it's delicious taste certainly makes up for that! Similar to a Korma but with a small touch of added spice, the Pasanda was originally made from lamb leg, but today often uses chicken or prawns.

What is the difference between korma and Kashmiri korma? ›

Crudely speaking, korma is almond-based, Kashmiri/Malayan has lots of fruit, meaning it can be very sweet, Pasanda is traditionally based on coconut flavours and Tikka Masala is served as a red, fragrantly buttery sauce.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Catherine Tremblay

Last Updated:

Views: 6358

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (47 voted)

Reviews: 94% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Catherine Tremblay

Birthday: 1999-09-23

Address: Suite 461 73643 Sherril Loaf, Dickinsonland, AZ 47941-2379

Phone: +2678139151039

Job: International Administration Supervisor

Hobby: Dowsing, Snowboarding, Rowing, Beekeeping, Calligraphy, Shooting, Air sports

Introduction: My name is Catherine Tremblay, I am a precious, perfect, tasty, enthusiastic, inexpensive, vast, kind person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.