Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma is a creamy, mildly spiced curry that’s rich in flavor and perfect for those who enjoy a gentle heat. Made with tender chicken and a luscious coconut-based sauce, this dish is fragrant with spices like coriander, cumin, and turmeric. It’s an easy, comforting meal that pairs beautifully with rice or naan bread.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Creamy and Mildly Spiced: Perfect for those who prefer less heat in their curry.
Fragrant and Flavorful: A blend of spices adds depth without overwhelming.

Quick to Prepare: Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Family-Friendly: Mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults.
Customizable: Add vegetables or adjust the spice level as desired.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma?

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma is a mildly spiced, creamy curry made with tender pieces of chicken simmered in a coconut-based sauce with fragrant spices. This comforting curry offers a well-rounded flavor profile, balancing richness with gentle spices, and is perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 teaspoons ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon turmeric
500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup coconut milk
Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup ground almonds (optional, for thickness and flavor)
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Optional toppings: toasted flaked almonds, a squeeze of lemon

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-6 minutes until softened and golden. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Spices

Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, and turmeric, and cook for 1 minute to allow the spices to release their aroma. This enhances the flavor of the curry.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pan, stirring to coat them well in the spices. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.

Step 4: Add Yogurt and Coconut Milk

Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the yogurt and coconut milk, mixing until well combined. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the ground almonds at this stage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Simmer the Curry

Cover the pan and let the curry simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish the korma with fresh cilantro and optional toppings like toasted almonds or a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma

Basmati Rice: A classic pairing for curries, fluffy basmati rice soaks up the korma sauce.
Naan Bread: Soft and perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
Cucumber Raita: A yogurt-based side dish that complements the mild spice of korma.

Mango Chutney: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the richness of the dish.
Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled veggies make a healthy, complementary side.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma

Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor of the korma.

Don’t Overcook the Yogurt: Add yogurt on low heat to prevent it from curdling.
Adjust Spice Level: If you want more heat, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne.
Add Almonds for Texture: Ground almonds add a creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor.

Simmer for Tenderness: Letting the korma simmer slowly allows the chicken to become tender and soak up the flavors.

Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma

Vegetable Korma: Substitute chicken with vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or potatoes for a vegetarian version.
Spicier Korma: Add chopped green chilies or extra chili powder for more heat.

Creamier Korma: Add a little heavy cream or more coconut milk for a richer sauce.
Cashew Korma: Substitute ground almonds with cashews for a slightly different flavor.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh mint along with cilantro for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

How to Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma

Allow the korma to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 kcal

Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 10g

Fiber: 2g

FAQs

Can I make Jamie Oliver’s chicken korma without coconut milk?

Yes, you can substitute coconut milk with heavy cream or plain yogurt for a slightly different texture and taste. Adjust the amount to reach your desired creaminess, but add it gradually and at a lower heat to prevent curdling.

How do I thicken the sauce in chicken korma?

To thicken the sauce, you can add ground almonds or cashew paste, which not only thickens the curry but also adds a nutty flavor. Alternatively, allow the korma to simmer longer until it reduces to your desired consistency.

Can I make Jamie Oliver’s chicken korma spicier?

Yes, to add more heat, you can add a pinch of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh chopped green chilies. Adjust the spice level gradually to suit your preference.

How long does chicken korma last in the fridge?

Chicken korma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the creamy texture.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma is a creamy, comforting curry that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Its mild spice and rich sauce make it a family-friendly dish that pairs perfectly with rice or naan. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, this korma is a great addition to any weeknight dinner rotation! Enjoy its warm, fragrant flavors and make it your own with the variations and serving suggestions.

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